Aguas Buenas

Slow your pace and explore the great outdoors in the "Town of Clear Waters."

Known as the "Town of Clear Waters" because of its abundance of freshwater springs, the 31-square-mile (80-square-kilometer) Aguas Buenas is set at the base of the Sierra de Cayey section of the Cordillera Central mountain range. The municipality is bounded by Bayamón, Guaynabo, and San Juan to the north. In easy reach of the Island’s capital, Aguas Buenas is only a 30-minute drive to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) airport and 40 minutes from Old San Juan.

Things to Do

Historic Sites

The town of Aguas Buenas includes a handful of sites worth checking out while you’re in the area. Originally built in 1955, the Parque de Bombas Maximiliano Merced (a fire station) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Meanwhile, the Casa de Arte y Cultura Don Franciso “Paquito” Díaz features artistic displays and exhibitions. The Plaza de Recreo Luis A. Ferré encompasses a water feature and is steps from churches, cafes, and the town’s city hall. Stroll over to Paseo El Mirador for an impressive view of the surrounding area.

La Charca Recreational Center

Outside of town, La Charca Recreational Center is located on the banks of the Río Bayamón and features a boardwalk, play areas for kids, and an open-air pavilion. Cerro La Tiza and Cerro Marquesa are among the nearby lookout points with sweeping views of the region’s verdant natural terrain.

Caves and Natural Attractions

The Aguas Buenas Caves are another important landmark. This 0.4-mile (one-kilometer) cave system marks the start of the Río Cagüitas tributary and is home to more than 50 species of wildlife. Ancient Taíno wall paintings have also been found here. Exploring on your own can be dangerous, however, so a visit is only recommended if you are with an expert.

Tour providers like Altura by Caribbean Nature Company can lead you into otherwise inaccessible locations around Aguas Buenas.

Agritourism and Nature Tours

Aguas Buenas has become a destination for agritourism, with several farms offering educational and wellness experiences. Arrange a visit at El Paraíso Agrícola de Aguas Buenas, Finca Artesenal, or Viva La Cosecha to learn about Puerto Rican farming, or make a reservation at the farm-to-table restaurant at Hacienda Cascada.