Things to Do in Guánica

Known as the Paradise of Eternal Summer, Guánica is home to the Guánica State Forest, where you can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and visiting a historic fort or secluded beaches.

For water sports, go kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of a mangrove island with a visit to Cayo Aurora, known by locals as Gilligan's Island.

Here are some of the best things to do in Guánica.

Guanica Dry Forest — Taking in the view of the Bosque Seco de Guánica.

Guánica State Forest & Biosphere Reserve

The Guánica State Forest is the best example of a dry forest in the Caribbean region and is designated as a biosphere reserve by the United Nations. Unlike El Yunque Rainforest, which receives about 120 inches of rain per year, the Guánica Dry Forest gets only around 30 inches.

This wonderful place has 12 well-maintained hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. In addition, it's a paradise for birdwatchers, with a variety of native and migratory birds that thrive in warm habitats. Contrary to what the name of the forest might suggest, you will see a lot of green vegetation, with many trees, shrubs, cacti, and other flora special to this environment.

Among the available hiking paths, there are some that take you to secluded sands such as Ballena Beach. An additional trail leads to an area where there are natural limestone caves, and another that will take you to the historic Fuerte Caprón, where you will find unbeatable panoramic views of Guánica Bay.

The forest is open every day and has a visitor center and picnic area. It's very important you wear sturdy shoes since you'll walk on unpaved land that could be rocky. Also, wear clothes that protect you from the sun. Be prepared with sunblock, lots of water, and snacks, because there are no kiosks or restaurants near the forest.

Cayo Aurora (Gilligan’s Island)

Cayo Aurora is a mangrove island that is very popular among locals. With shallow, warm Caribbean waters and tranquil surroundings, this tropical paradise is excellent for families with young children or seniors. To explore the area, you can rent a kayak at the shoreside restaurant dock or go on a private boat.

More Beaches

Along with Cayo Aurora, you’ll find beaches such as Playa Santa, one of the most popular beaches in town. This beach is a good choice for a full-day excursion and is close to restaurants and kiosks as well as kayak rentals, jet skis, and more. Other beaches in Guánica include Playa La Jungla, Playa Jaconcillo, and Hidden Beach.

Beautiful sunflowers of the Finca El Girasol. — Beautiful sunflowers of the *Finca El Girasol*.

Sunflower Excursion

This is a quick and picturesque stop on your tour of Guánica. Finca El Girasol is a charming, family-friendly place where the owners cultivate different types of sunflowers.

You can walk among the bright flowers and the location is a popular backdrop for colorful photos. They also sell flowers, if you want to take some of your favorites.

Bring water and sunblock, because the farm gets a lot of sun. Parking on location has a minimal cost for access to the gorgeous flowers. Finca El Girasol is open seven days a week beginning at 10 a.m. Please note that the schedule is subject to sudden changes due to rain or availability of flowers.

Aerial view of scuba diving near Guánica. — Island Scuba will take you to some incredible dive sites in Guánica.

Diving Excursions

Guánica is an ideal destination for divers, whether amateur or experienced. Tour companies such as Island Scuba offer trips to visit different diving sites to appreciate reefs and extraordinary marine life such as sharks, octopus, lobster, eels, sea turtles, and sting rays.