Top Things to do in Arecibo
7 Budget-friendly Things to do in Arecibo That You Shouldn't Miss
Discover the best top things to do in Arecibo, Puerto Rico including Arecibo Observatory, Cueva del Indio, Aventura Cueva Ventana, La Poza Del Obizpo, Aventureo PR, El Poza del Obispo, Arecibo Lighthouse & Historical Park.
Restaurants in Arecibo
1. Arecibo Observatory
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,015 reviews
Explore the wonders of the universe at the world's largest radio telescope located in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. Here, scientists from throughout the world use the 305 meter dish to gather radio signals from regions of star formation, planets, distant galaxies and the atmosphere. Visit the Angel Ramos Foundation Science and Visitor Center which includes interactive exhibits. Enjoy the amazing view from the observation deck and don't forget the auditorium and souvenir shop.
Reviewed By X975TUstevem - Providence, United States
I specifically wanted to visit here and planned a day around it. It is easy to do this along with the Cuevo del Indio and the Cueva de la Ventana if you plan it (I only half planned it and missed the Ventana because the tours were overbooked by the time I got there). If you come here by yourself and are not familiar with "island driving" on narrow roads where you have to be mindful all the time, often have to pull a little off the road to let oncoming traffic pass, etc., then the drive is going to be a little harrowing. There is no alternate route. If this doesn't sound like something you want to do, then I suggest using a tour company. Second thing - do the right thing and just put your phone in airplane mode before entering the observatory area. You can deal without getting texts for an hour, and since so many people use cameras on their phones it would be a shame if so many people ignored the rule not to talk or text that they had to ban all cell phones from the place. I really enjoyed my visit here, though I didn't really have a lot to learn in the "museum" area there are a few interactive displays that are really cool even if you already know the information, and the film about the construction and usage of the telescope is worth seeing. You get nice views of the dish and collector, and afterward you can watch James Bond Golden Eye, or the movie Contact and recognize things you were just looking at.
2. Cueva del Indio
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 739 reviews
Located at Arecibo, the Cueva del Indio is an area where the Taino Indians held tribal meetings and made numerous carvings in the walls of these natural limestone caves. To get to the impressive location there is a bit of a hike. Once you get through the trail, you will get to see multiple rock formations, in one of these formations lies the cave. To get to the cave there is a long wooden ladder at about 25 feet from the surface. Inside the cave you will be able to admire over 80 indigenous petroglyphs from our taino ancestors. these artifacts seem to date all the way back from 1200 to 1500 A.D. You will also be able to admire the beautiful ocean waves crashing on the rock formations. There is vast parking space and in the same location the attraction "Los siete arcos" is available.
Reviewed By torresconsultinggrof - Chicago, United States
These Caverns, Once inhabited by the original inhabitants of Puerto Rico, The Taino Indians. The Area is lava rock which is porous and jagged, Take your time walking up, The high winds and rough rock terrain can be treacherous is you are careless. I honestly wouldnt recommend you taking small children. There are caverns deep inside this rock formation that the Indians used as a home and have actual carvings by the tiano Indians themselves. But be careful there are treacherous holes located in various areas so be vigilant. Bring good hiking shoes, not sandals and have a open mind for a adventure. The views are Breathtaking and Beautiful. This is one of the best attractions I found in Puerto Rico and definitely worth a Visit.
3. Aventura Cueva Ventana
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 938 reviews
Cueva Ventana means Window Cave. Take a hike to and through this cave (bring a flashlight!) for a view that is out of this world.
Reviewed By J6269LYheatherf - San Jose, United States
Such an amazing experience! I was expecting a rigorous hike to get up to the cave but it was actually a very doable downhill hike. We were able to see carvings made by the Taino people thousands of years ago and explore a cave before going through to the Window Cave. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable of the area, including the plants and animals to be found nearby. He pointed out bats on the ceiling of the cave and even a boa hiding in a hole! My daughter was excited to spy a Puerto Rican black racer snake after we left the caves. I highly recommend this excursion if you’re in the area
4. La Poza Del Obizpo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 171 reviews
Reviewed By AliBug - Charlotte, United States
We kept trying to visit during high tide to see the crashing waves, but our schedule just did not permit. The area is absolutely gorgeous and the lighthouse towers above. It's a great location to spend the day with soft sandy beaches and those gorgeous rocks with the crashing waves.
5. Aventureo PR
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 161 reviews
Aventureo PR is a local adventure company. Our local guides are canyoning caves lovers with most than 12 years of experience. Come an enjoy an eco-adventure that anyone in good condition can participate. I invite you to appreciate nature in a fun and education way. Aventureo give you the alternative to enjoy the Tanama Adventure or Guajataca which includes many activities like hiking, cave exploring, river tracking, rappelling,tubing,kayak, caves,natural pool,body rafting,camping,rock climb, cliff jumping ,canyoning,river current float and many more.
6. El Poza del Obispo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 28 reviews
La Poza del Obispo is a beautiful beach located in Arecibo behind the Arecibo Lighthouse. It is known as one of the smallest beaches in Puerto Rico. Take in a bit of paradise by visiting its crystal clear waters and its tranquil environment. You will be relaxed by the spectacle of the crashing waves against the rock formations that form this small beautiful beach.
Reviewed By Andres72423 - Bridgeport, United States
What an amazing time we had at this beach. The parking was a bit dodgy it once you have parking then the rest is just pure fun. This beach is 100 times better than any man made wave pool. The wAves come in very strong and the crash into the rock formations on both the left and right side and they form the most amazing waves which has everyone jumping to them and riding them. I love this place and will definitely be back. If you are coming to this beach I recommend you bring your own cooler, beach chairs and any else you may need at the beach because there is no where for you to go to purchase anything. We came prepared we had our cooler filled with beer, wine and sangria. Along with plenty of snacks to feed us. What a great time had by all. Highly recommend this place.
7. Arecibo Lighthouse & Historical Park
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 301 reviews
Arecibo Lighthouse & Historical Park, offers to the general public The Morillos Lighthouse from 1898, last Lighthouse built by Spanish Government in the island just before the Hispanic-American War. It was totally restored and opened to the public in 2001. In the surrounding areas, some replicas of elements of Puerto Rico history like Taino Village, Spanish Conquest with 3 ships, African Hut, Pirate Ship and the only salt-water aquarium in the island. Also Decks with the magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can access the "Splash by the Lighthouse" a wading pool area for kids and adults.
