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Arecibo, Puerto Rico With its dramatic karst landscape — defined by limestone formations, extensive cave systems, and subterranean rivers — the trip to Arecibo is a bit like entering another world. There, you can explore caves, walk in the footsteps of pirates, or just plant yourself on some of the prettiest beaches in Puerto Rico.

Take a look at the top things to do in Arecibo:

Ocean view of the Punta Los Murillos Lighthouse in Arecibo. The Punta Los Morrillos Lighthouse in Arecibo houses a cultural theme park.

Arecibo Lighthouse & Historical Park This neoclassical lighthouse was built by the Spanish government in 1898, and now houses a cultural theme park that will transport you to the buccaneer days when pirates roamed the northern shore of Puerto Rico.

On your way to the lighthouse, you will find replicas of the three ships the Spanish used to conquer the New World; a re-created Taíno village; and a pirate ship that kids can climb and explore. The park also has a museum, an aquarium, and a mini-water park that’s a serious hit with kids. With food vendors on-site, you can easily make an entire family day out of this visit.

Casa Ulanga is the Cultural Center of Arecibo. Casa Ulanga is the Cultural Center of Arecibo.

Casa Ulanga If the walls of this circa-1854 colonial building could talk, they’d tell the many colorful tales of Arecibo’s history. Casa Ulanga was originally the residence of a high-ranking Spanish conquistador. The building has served as a bank, store, city hall, hospital, courthouse, and jail. It’s now the Cultural Center of Arecibo, which hosts various festivals and activities throughout the year.

Which way to go? Cambalache State Forest has 1,600 acres to explore. Cambalache State Forest has 1,600 acres to explore.

Cambalache State Forest See a variety of vivid birds and native flora at this 1,600-acre forest, which extends from Arecibo to Barceloneta. The many hiking and biking trails at Cambalache State Forest make for a great day trip; or, reserve a campsite — complete with amenities like barbecue grills and gazebos — and stay a bit longer.

Drive in theater screen in a field. Autocine Santana is Puerto Rico's exclusive drive-in theater, offering a unique movie-watching experience under the stars.

Auto Cine Santana Movie lovers can’t miss the chance to catch their favorite movies under the twinkling Caribbean sky in Auto Cine Santana, Puerto Rico's only drive-in theatre. Since the 1950s, this family-owned drive-in theater has