Salinas, the town of mojo isleño, is not only where you can find some of the freshest, most flavorful seafood in all of Puerto Rico. It is also a place full of different things to do if you are feeling adventurous.
Here are eight stops to make the most of your visit. Head south!
Start your engines! Salinas Speedway hosts intense car races every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, and it is a real good time. They hold various events throughout the month, with general admission at just $20 and free entry for children under eight. It is a great option for a family outing.
Have you ever heard of Cayo Matías? It is a cay off the coast of Salinas, popular for its clear waters where visitors can walk among the mangroves and do other activities like swimming, diving or kayaking. The views are beautiful. No way to get there? Catch a ride on La Paseadora de Salinas, a ferry that takes you and your crew to this small paradise for just $10.
The world's largest pilón is in Puerto Rico! Hacienda Los Maldonado is a museum filled with images presenting moments from Puerto Rican history, focusing mainly on Taíno, African and Spanish heritage. The standout feature is the "Pilón Monumental," currently recognized by @guinnessworldrecords as the largest pilón in the world. It is a perfect place to bring the whole family.
Beyond being the second-largest estuarine area on the Island, it is a sanctuary for 60% of the West Indian manatee population in Puerto Rico. La Reserva Nacional de Investigación has a visitor center where you can view interactive photo exhibits and a library open to the general public. The center is closed Sundays and Saturdays, but the kayak routes are open at all times.
This pit stop is a must. On your way back from Salinas, make sure to stop at La Curva del Árbol, located on highway No. 1. The lookout offers a spectacular view of the mountains, including Cerro Las Tetas. There is also a swing hanging from the tree, making it the perfect spot for a photo.
If you are a sports fan, stop by this space dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of Puerto Rican sports and its medalists. Fun fact: Jasmine Camacho-Quinn already has her own space! The museum will reopen in December. The champion's exhibit will include the uniform she wore in the 100-meter hurdles final in Tokyo. That is worth seeing.
Like Cayo Matías, this spot can be reached by boat or ferry. You can visit both in the same day given how close they are. After a day packed with water activities, you have earned a big feast of fresh fried red snapper.
Hacienda Los Maldonado is a museum dedicated to highlighting Puerto Rican historical culture, specifically that of the jíbaro, indigenous, African and Spanish traditions. Around the hacienda you will find artifacts that take you back in time, including a fogón showing how people cooked in those days. The hacienda is perfect for bringing the kids and spending time together as a family.
Road trip time!
Get the car ready, because all roads lead to Salinas, where you have a variety of great things to do with friends, family or on your own. From beach outings to museums to a nature reserve, there is something for any curious person looking to explore.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
