As the home of the busiest airport in Puerto Rico, Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), Carolina is the gateway to the many beautiful attractions Puerto Rico has to offer.
This town is hopping with trendy spots and exquisite restaurants that are worth a visit. Discover a wide selection of museums, kid-friendly attractions, popular beaches, and beautiful scenery while visiting la Tierra de Gigantes — “the Land of Giants” — as Carolina is known.
Isla Verde Beach in Carolina, located just east of San Juan.
Isla Verde Beach
Some call it the Copacabana of Puerto Rico, and this beach is a popular choice for those escaping colder temperatures. With its miles of warm, golden sand and stunning turquoise waters, the locals love it all year long. Isla Verde Beach is accessible from the many resorts that are nestled along its shore, and there are chair and umbrella rentals at many points on the beach for a blissful day of relaxation.
Alcapurria, green plantain and taro root fritters
Chinchorreo in Piñones
Roadside food-stand-hopping is what Puerto Ricans call chinchorreo, something you will have plenty of opportunity to do if you travel the rural roads of Piñones, the region where Carolina is located. The coastal line — one of Puerto Rico’s most picturesque drives — runs from Carolina to Loíza, and you can stop at many beaches and food kiosks along the way. Pick a secluded patch of sand at beaches like La Posita and Vacía Talega to enjoy the peaceful waves. Later, sidle up to a chinchorro for a beer and crispy bacalaítos (codfish fritters) or alcapurria (green plantain and taro root fritters).
Julia de Burgos Park
Julia de Burgos Park is a great place to spend the day with the family, with lush landscapes that showcase the beautiful flora of Puerto Rico. The park has a 5-mile round-trip track — perfect for walking or jogging — with obstacles and stretching stations at different intervals, as well as picnic areas and resting spots. The most visited area of the park is Aquasol, a small waterpark for children complete with flat pools, streams, and water toys.
A sunny day at Balneario de Carolina.
Balneario de Carolina
Another popular beach in this municipality is the Balneario de Carolina, right across from SJU airport. This famous beach is wedged between the buildings that make up Isla Verde Avenue, and has many lifeguards, public bathrooms, and parking spots available. The beach is very peaceful during the week, making it the perfect place for a quiet barbecue and picnic. On weekends, it turns into a full-on party beach, with live music and festivals taking place throughout the year.
Set out to an unforgettable adventure at Hacienda Campo Rico.
Hacienda Campo Rico
At this estate and ranch, you can immerse yourself in the Puerto Rican countryside without ever leaving city limits. Hacienda Campo Rico is an all-in-one adventure destination, with activities such as horseback riding, ziplining, hiking, ATV riding, and more — all just 15 minutes from the airport.
Galería de los Gigantes & Casa Escuté
These gallery-style museums house the works of many illustrious artists who were born or raised in Carolina, and have left their mark on the local arts scene. Both Galería de los Gigantes and Casa Escuté give insight into the overall history of art in Puerto Rico, highlighting past and contemporary artists.
Museo del Niño de Carolina is your headquarters for hands-on exhibits that make learning fun.
El Museo del Niño
With fun, interactive displays, El Museo del Niño (Children’s Museum) is a place where kids are not only entertained, but exposed to educational and recreational activities that will stimulate their brains. Your little ones will get to explore the inside of an MD-82 American Airlines plane before entering the exhibitions, playgrounds, and petting zoo inside.
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Pool view at Fairmont El San Juan Hotel.
Where to Stay in Carolina
Accommodations in Carolina range from luxurious and romantic to budget-friendly.