Puerto Rico's Dazzling, Color-Drenched Art Town Is An Easy Day Trip From San Juan

While just about everyone should know that Puerto Rico is the ultimate holiday destination to escape the cold temperatures, few venture beyond San Juan and a handful of famous beaches. That's why Yauco, a dreamy art town tucked into the island's mountainous southwest, has managed to go unnoticed by most tourists, even though it's one of the country's most dazzling spots. And at just a little over 88 miles from the capital, it's an easy day trip.

Traditionally known as "El Pueblo del Café," or "coffee town," thanks to its coffee-growing heritage and renowned beans, Yauco has had a couple of viral moments these past few years thanks to its color-drenched public art installations. Several travel influencers have shared their experiences of falling in love with Yaucromatic (the town's vibrant 2017 art project) and everything it represents. Tourists are taking notice, too. The fact that the city is easily reachable from San Juan via PR-52 helps. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, a Caribbean jewel with high scores in friendliness, access, and more, is less than two hours away. With that said, shuttles can be expensive and inconvenient. On the other hand, rentals at the airport can start at a shockingly low $6 a day, so all told you're better off getting your own car and driving the distance.

Once in Yauco, you'll be happy to see that there are plenty of walkable areas to explore. And even though the town is so close to San Juan (a major plus), travelers looking for something new will be happy to learn that it feels like a totally different island from the one you experience in the capital's busy streets.

If you've seen or heard anything about Yauco, chances are it has something to do with Yaucromatic. The vibrant, colorful mural was created with the very purpose of reviving tourism in the aftermath of devastating Hurricane Maria back in 2017. And because the public response exceeded expectations, a second edition was produced a year later, finishing what Tripadvisor consider's Yauco's top attraction. So, if it's your first time visiting the town, a self-guided tour through all the murals is non-negotiable. Make sure to research the pieces beforehand so as not to miss out on highlights like the "macromural," the colorful brainchild of artist Samuel González.

You'll probably want to set aside one or two hours of your time to fully appreciate the pieces, but since the walk can be pretty steep, try to park as far uphill as you can to preserve some much-needed energy. Remember that you'll probably want to climb up the iconic stairway, so we're not being overly cautious here. That's also why it's so important to find a comfy place to stay, especially if you're going back to San Juan after a quick day trip. Luckily for you, places like Metro Art and the Looking Glass are two of the best hotels in Puerto Rico for any budget.

Your time in Yauco is still far from over, though. Sure, the colorful murals might be the town's biggest draw, but there's a whole world of culture, walkable plazas, and life-changing coffee just waiting for those who venture beyond the viral spots. Before you go, make sure to stop by Dolche Salao. It's right near the installations, and it's the perfect brunch spot, complete with omelettes, chicken and waffles, and mimosas.

Another, arguably much deeper, part of the Yauco culture is the legendary coffee scene. This humble town is the unofficial coffee capital of Puerto Rico. That's because Yauco's strategic position allows for the growth of some of the richest, most flavorful Arabica bean varieties like Caturra, Bourbon, and Typica. If you have some flexibility in your plans, do your best to come here during the National Coffee Festival. It's a celebration filled with music, dances, food, and, of course, coffee. It's a very local event that takes place annually, usually in late February, so it makes for the perfect opportunity to interact with the local people while taking in their culture, one sip at a time. 

If you can't make it to the festival, don't worry. There are still plenty of great cafes around town that give you a taste of local flavors. Carajillo Coffee House is one of the best-known ones. People love their smooth, flavorful coffee, warm atmosphere, impressive breakfast selection (which includes a fantastic French toast), and great service. They're open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Plaza Fernando Pacheco, found right in the heart of the city, is a must-see, too. It's pretty and safe around here, and there's even a church you might want to check out. For a greener experience, Yauco Urban Park is the better choice. You still have a basketball court and a skate park, but you also get shaded trails, a lake, and some delightful wildlife sightings. For an unforgettable experience, you can also drive the 92 miles to Condado Lagoon. Located just outside of San Juan, this is a bioluminescent gem brimming with sea turtles and manatees. Be warned, though, there's a stunning beach nearby where tourists should never swim.