Puerto Rico is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.
Salinas
Known as the pueblo del mojo isleño (named after a special local sauce used to marinate fried fish), Salinas is a gastronomic gem that’s bursting with restaurants.
In Salinas, you can sample everything from fresh seafood to creative local cuisine or traditional Puerto Rican food. While you're here, stick around to explore some of the Island's most scenic hikes, coastal areas, and iconic attractions that will especially appeal to sports lovers.
Things to Do
Rock Climbing and Hiking
Salinas is home to the impressive Piedras del Collado mountain peaks (known locally, and rather jocularly, as las Tetas de Cayey due to their bosom-like appearance). There are several companies that offer rock climbing and hiking tours. Also located within the same nature reserve are two enormous promontories (nearly 2,800 feet above sea level), and a forest.
Salinas features more than 100 islets and cays in close proximity, with the mangrove island of Cayo Matías being one of the most popular local stops. You can access it by private boat or by riding a quaint ferry called La Paseadora, which runs on weekends and holidays. Make sure to bring your own food and drink because there are no facilities on this islet.
Fun Attractions
The Albergue Olímpico is a must-see recreational center featuring 17 sports installations, an aviary, playgrounds, a botanical garden, and a seasonal water park with slides and wave pools. The facility is also home to the Puerto Rican Olympic Museum, which showcases the Island's many accomplished Olympians.
Feeling a need for speed? Visit the Salinas Speedway, where you can watch car races on four tracks: Acceleration, Circuit, Formula, and Go-Kart. The speedway is open to the public on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 5:00 p.m.
El Dorado is one restaurant where you can try Salinas' local specialty, fresh seafood.
Dining
Salinas has two mesones gastronómicos — El Balcón del Capitán and El Roble — which are exceptional restaurants offering authentic Puerto Rican specialties. Both places feature menus with a variety of fresh seafood along with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.
Another popular spot is El Dorado, where you can taste fresh-caught fish with first-class service. Some of their most popular dishes include the mofongo or tostones de pana with lobster, conch cocktail, and shrimp asopao, as well as deep friend or grilled red snapper.
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