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A journey through Puerto Rico's most scenic bridges

Adalys Bonilla

Traveling around Puerto Rico can lead you to some beautiful scenic views. Some of those views can be enjoyed from bridges you may not know about, bridges that may also have historical value. Here are our recommendations for bridges with scenic views in Puerto Rico.

Puente Blanco in Quebradillas

This large concrete structure is one of the bridges designed in the early 20th century by the American Railroad Company to carry the train over the La Mala creek. It was built in 1922 and is one of the connections between the municipalities of Quebradillas and Camuy. The structure is distinguished by the design that supports it, made up of a double row of 17 columns positioned just below the beam and above a large arch.

The bridge was recently restored after having been closed for several years due to deterioration. Since reopening, it includes a pedestrian walkway.

Puente del Lago Caonillas

The Lago Caonillas dam has the unusual feature of being crossable via this bridge of the same name. Route 140, which connects to Ciales, runs across the structure. The view from the bridge can be both impressive and scenic: on one side you see the lake's waters, and on the other you take in the green of the mountains, since the water is held back by the dam.

Puente Mata de Plátanos (Puente Ingeniero Juan José Jiménez)

Located in the municipality of Ciales, this metal bridge spans a large canyon through which the Río Grande de Manatí flows. It was built in 1905 and, although it has been closed due to deterioration in the past, it is currently open to vehicle traffic. Its metal structure is visually striking because of its rectangular "N"-shaped truss. Crossing it, you can appreciate the greenery surrounding the canyon.

Pedestrian bridges in Jayuya

Among the mountains of central Puerto Rico in Jayuya, you'll find two pedestrian bridges that cross the river and offer a wide view of the green landscape. They are also good spots for photos and for taking in nature. Make a stop at Puente Peatonal Paseo Ventana, which stands out for the colorful mosaic covering the entire floor.

A short distance away, with parking available, you'll find the pedestrian bridge on Calle Libertad, accessible via a ramp that features Puerto Rican and indigenous artistic expressions.

💡 [platea tip]: In Jayuya you can also visit the hot air balloon. See our guide here.

Puente Atirantado de Naranjito (Puente Jesús Izcoa Moure)

It may be the most well-known bridge in Puerto Rico. This monumental architectural landmark draws attention at first glance because of its impressive construction. It sits above Lago La Plata and connects the municipalities of Toa Alta and Naranjito. It was built in 2008 and is the first cable-stayed bridge in the Caribbean.

Although it was closed for a time, it was recently reopened after repairs. The bridge is built for vehicle traffic, and crossing it you can see the lake below and the mountains surrounding the nearby municipalities.

Scenic views to spare

If you want to keep exploring the beauty of the Island, we recommend visiting the six most scenic routes in Puerto Rico.

This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).