What to do and see in Ponce, Puerto Rico: The Best Nature & Parks

If you want to visit one of Puerto Rico's most pristine beaches, then head over to Pelicano Beach at Caja de Muertos Island in Ponce. This fantastic place has been recognized for its cleanliness and environmental care; it's no wonder it was the first ever Caribbean Beach in a Natural Reserve to be awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award. The calm, crystalline waters and white, sandy shore of the Caribbean Sea will allow you to have a relaxing time. Although it's a small beach, it has picnic tables and gazebos for large groups to go and have fun. The name "Pelicano Beach" comes from the abundance of pelicans in the area--a reserve for these and other birds is located right next door.

Isla Caja de Muertos is an island located 8 miles off the coast, south of Ponce. It is a small island, just about 1.5 miles long and about a half-mile wide at its widest point. It is a nature reserve, with beautiful beaches, hiking trails, a light house and a cave. Enjoy a day in paradaise! Island Venture takes you to Caja de Muertos island aboard a comfortable ship equipped with refreshments and other amenities that will be available throughout your whole trip and stay.

La Guancha is one of the hottest hang out spots in Ponce, literally, it's right next to the beach. Take a trip to this boardwalk facing the Caribbean Sea to find an array of fun things to do. Start by having a meal at some of the kiosks turned restaurants, and then have a drink at one of the bars. You can also buy some seeds and feed the birds, fish, and pelicans that are always around the boardwalk grounds. Finish the visit by going up the Guancha Lighthouse and enjoying the view.

Ceiba Tree Park is one of the most important markers of history in Puerto Rico. Right in the center is the oldest Ceiba tree, Puerto Rico's national tree. The Ceiba has been gracing old and new generations of poncenos for 500 years. One of the oldest representations of the Ceiba is seen in one of Francisco Oller's paintings from 1888. This ancient tree represents memories, childhood, growth, and good times for many. Generations upon generations of poncenos have dearly cared for this tree, even through the toughest times.

Lake Cerrillos is part of the Cerrillos Forest Natural Reserve in barrio Maraguez in Ponce. It is a man-made lake, finished in 1992, and it serves as a flood control method, a water supply, reservoir, and even for recreational purposes, such as fishing. The Cerrillos Recreational Area and observing site sits at one edge of the lake.

Parque del Tricentenario is a passive urban park, built to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the founding of the of Ponce, Puerto Rico. It was inaugurated by mayor Rafael Cordero Santiago.

The city of Ponce's main central plaza, Plaza Las Delicias, is divided into two: Plaza Federico Degetau and Plaza Munoz Rivera. Degetau Plaza is the larger of the two, and it includes notable fountains, like the famous Fuente de Los Leones, and other iconic monuments. It is located in the center of Ponce's Historic Zone, with the historic firehouse, city hall, cathedral, historic bank district, and the Armstrong-Poventud residence surrounding it. The Plaza dates back to 1670, when Ponce was mostly a Spanish settlement.

The beach at El Tuque used to be an abandoned seashore right until mid 1960's, where it was officially made into a "balneario." Throughout time, the place has had an assortment of redevelopments and changes regarding features and appearance. It has gone from recreational complex, to tourist center, water park, and more. Even with so many changes, locals of the area (which is the most populated area of Ponce) remain loyal to the beach and often go for a swim.

Parque de la Abolicion (English: Abolition Park) is a park in Ponce, Puerto Rico. It is the only park in the Caribbean dedicated to commemorating the abolition of slavery. It was built in 1874 and renovated in 1956.