Guayama

Things to Do in Guayama

Museums

Within the town center of Guayama, there are several museums dedicated to different aspects of the town's history. For architecture buffs, Casa Cautiño is a must-visit. The house is a u-shaped neoclassical structure designed by local architect Manuel Texidor. During the Spanish-American War, the American army used the house as its headquarters. Casa y Museo del Poeta Luis Palés Matos is a cultural center located in the former residence of Luis Palés Matos, the poet who invented the Afro-Antillian genre of poetry. 

Aguirre State Forest

Located near the coast, the Aguirre State Forest is a mangrove forest with walking paths along the marshes and lagoons. Hiking, camping, birdwatching, and fishing are some of the activities you can do while visiting the reserve, and there is also a ramp and a dock available if you have a boat. Manatees, 184 species of birds, and three different kinds of bats can be spotted in the forest.

Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Spread between Guayama and Salinas, Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is the second-largest estuary in Puerto Rico. Wetlands, upland dry forest, mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and lagoons are all contained within its 3,000 acres. Many endangered species call this area home, including brown pelicans, hawksbill turtles, and the West Indian manatee. Volunteering opportunities are available for those interested in contributing to the reserve.

Carite Lake

Carite Lake is a manmade lake located within Carite State Forest that serves as a reservoir for irrigation purposes. It's a good spot for fishing and there are several Airbnb properties available in the vicinity, including a treehouse in a small tropical farm right by the lake.

El Legado Golf Resort

For golfers looking to hit the links, El Legado offers a par 72 with 18 holes and 7,200 yards, where strong winds can add to the challenge. There is also a driving range, pro shop, bar, and restaurant. The resort was designed by local golf legend Chi Chi Rodríguez and features views of the Island's central mountain range and the Caribbean Sea.

Guayama’s Coastal Gastronomy Trail 

Adventures palates will appreciate Guayama’s Coastal Gastronomy Trail. This strip of the 7710 road crosses Pozuelo, a perfect locale for seafood enthusiasts. Along the route, sample dishes like alcapurrias (fritters made with root vegetables and stuffed with meat, chicken, fish, or seafood) and pastelillos (deep-fried empanadas), and fish.

La Casa de los Pastelillos

Pastelillos, also known as empanadillas, are giant, deep-fried empanadas, or turnovers, stuffed with meat, chicken, seafood, fish, vegetables, or cheese. La Casa de los Pastelillos is famous for offering the widest variety and some of the biggest pastelillos in Puerto Rico (they serve other types of local fritters, too, if you want to sample a variety). It's a very popular place, especially on weekends, so grab a drink and settle on the deck to enjoy the view of the beach while your order comes out.