Cabo Rojo is a beautiful and historic town on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico. It is part of the San Juan-Caguas-Guaynabo Metropolitan Statistical Area and the second most populous municipality in both the metropolitan area and Puerto Rico. Cabo Rojo has a rich history and culture, as it was founded by Spanish colonists in 1771.
While in Cabo Rojo, don’t forget to make a quick stop in Boquerón!
Cabo Rojo is also known as “El Pueblo de Cofresí” (Cofresí’s town), “Los Mata con Hacha” (The Axe Killers), “La Cuna de Betances” (The Birthplace of Betances), and “La Capital del Turismo Interno de Puerto Rico” (The Capital of Internal Tourism in Puerto Rico).
Some of the main attractions in Cabo Rojo are:
Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge:
This is a coastal subtropical dry forest that contains many natural wonders, such as limestone cliffs, stunning beaches, idyllic nature reserves, and diverse wildlife. The refuge was established in 1974 and is one of nine reserves managed by the Caribbean Islands National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
Los Morrillos Lighthouse:
This is a historic and picturesque lighthouse that helps ships navigate safely through the Mona Passage from the Caribbean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. Completed in 1882, it was the second lighthouse built under Spanish rule on the island. The structure is part of a maritime lighting system that was included in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
Cabo Rojo Salt Flats:
The salt flats are very special to Cabo Rojo and perfect for a quick stop on your way to other popular attractions. The salt flats have been recognized as an important wildlife habitat and have been given a pink-and-red color by the high concentration of minerals. According to legend, Christopher Columbus himself gave this name to Cabo Rojo because of its reddish hue.
Where to eat while in the town of Cabo Rojo:
There are many places to eat in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, that offer delicious food and drinks. Whether you are looking for seafood, Puerto Rican cuisine, Mexican food, pizza, or burgers, you will find something to satisfy your appetite.
Buena Vibra Bar & Tapas:
A rustic spot surrounded by greenery that serves creative, local food with a Latin twist. They have a specialty of local avocado filled with different seafood, fish, or meat. They also have vegan and vegetarian dishes, homemade mojitos and sangria, and a good selection of local craft beers.
Annie’s Place:
A restaurant located on the popular Combate Beach that offers traditional dishes such as mofongo, rice and beans, roasted pork, and fried fish. They also have a bar and live music on weekends.
Bamboleio:
Baboleio is a restaurant with lovely views of the sea that serves fresh seafood and Spanish dishes. Try the conch-stuffed mofongo, the mahi-mahi tempura with guava sauce, or the mix-and-match option to create your combination.
Nautica by Poly’s:
Nautica by Poly’s is located in Joyuda and has a spectacular terrace floating over the water that serves Caribbean, Latin, and seafood dishes. Try the mofongo stuffed with lobster and garlic sauce, the mahi-mahi filet, the conch salad, or the homemade garlic-rosemary bread.
Pika-Pika Restaurant:
A Mexican grill that serves tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and more. They also have vegetarian options, desserts, and cocktails.
