Mangroves are low trees that grow in marshes and along tidal shores. Their roots, interlacing above ground, sketch fascinating patterns and provide protection for countless animals and plants. The Piñones (or pine) Forest, one of Puerto Rico’s natural treasures, is a mangrove-lover’s paradise and is just 20 minutes from San Juan. On your way you’ll pass a a small marina, a cluster of seafood shacks and coconut stands at Boca de Cangrejos, and probably will see surfers riding the waves at Aviones, a beach named for the stream of aircraft heading in and out of nearby Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. You will quickly reach the Piñones Natural Reserve with its boardwalk through the forest, wild stretches of beach with fine views of the San Juan skyline, a maze of mangroves, a small bioluminescent bay, dramatic sand dunes, and exotic wildlife. Birdwatchers often record up to 46 species during visits to Piñones, and snorkelers can be sure of seeing many of the 36 species of fish that are found in its waters. If you continue east, you will reach Valcia Talega Beach and its strange landscape of twisted rocks dotted with palm trees, the perfect place to end your Piñones adventure.
How to Get There
From San Juan take Road 26 towards Carolina, then take Road 187 which leads directly to Piñones Natural Reserve.