San Sebastián

Local History and Culture

Discover the Archivo Histórico (Historical Archive), a stunning two-story building that houses a collection of original town documents. Down the street, you'll find Casa Doña Bisa, which was once a stately private residence and now serves as an elegant museum. Explore the house and step into a bygone era as you uncover the history of San Sebastián amid a collection of 19th- and early-20th-century furniture.

The nearby Museo de la Hamaca is an unexpected delight that's all about hammocks. Here, you can trace the history of these relaxing wonders, which were first invented by the Taínos — Puerto Rico's Indigenous people. This museum details the hammock-making process and includes a marketplace for local artisans to sell their crafts.

The Plaza de la Identidad Pepiniana is a permanent outdoor exhibit that commemorates the political, cultural, sports, and religious contributions of the famous pepinianos. A colorful outdoor mural chronicling the town’s history adorns Paseo 24 de Septiembre. 

Set on what used to be farmland for sugar cane, coffee, and cotton, the Museo Hacienda La Fe displays antique machinery and other farming-related artifacts. 

The Pedro Tomás Labayen exhibition hall includes, among other displays, a permanent space that honors the heroes of the Pepino Power Authority — a grassroots effort organized by the municipality to restore electricity to the area after Hurricane María in 2017.

Pro Tip: Book a guided tour with local expert Tour Guide Debbie to make the most out of your visit to this mountainous town. 

Outdoor Recreation

Adventurous travelers will find plenty to do in San Sebastián. Surround yourself with nature at Lago Guajataca, a picturesque reservoir that sits amid lush greenery and offers an idyllic setting for fishing, kayaking, and camping. Or, go for a relaxing hike amid local wildlife on the paved trails at Refugio Vida Silvestre, Embalse Guajataca.

Traveling with kids? Spend some time in the great outdoors at Parque Pasivo Rafael Fey Méndez Cabrero, which has a playground and picnic areas.

Accommodations

Couples will love the romantically rustic Hacienda El Jibarito, which sits on 20 scenic acres. The mountain getaway features guestrooms and villas, waterfalls, horseback riding, a restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools, and a café.

At Casa Campo, each room includes a private balcony, a refrigerator, a microwave, free Wi-Fi access, and complimentary daily breakfast. Plus, you can enjoy cooling off in the outdoor pool or meeting other travelers in the communal guest lounge.

The Hotel El Castillo is a great spot for families, with plenty of amenities to keep kids and parents entertained, including a game room, pool, Jacuzzi, and kiddie pool.

For those looking to be close to the action, the San Sebastián Bed & Breakfast an ideal place to stay a few nights. Its convenient location puts it within walking distance of museums, churches, and restaurants.