📍 Location & Geography
Yabucoa is a small city located on the southeastern coast of Puerto Rico, bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the south. It is nestled within the Yabucoa Valley, surrounded by hills and mountains. The city is part of the Yabucoa County and is divided into ten wards, with Yabucoa Pueblo being the downtown area and the administrative center of the city.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Yabucoa are approximately 18.05 degrees north latitude and 65.88 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Yabucoa is part of the Eastern Coastal Plains region of Puerto Rico. It covers a total area of approximately 55.4 square miles (143.3 square kilometers), making it one of the smaller cities in Puerto Rico. Despite its small size, Yabucoa boasts a diverse landscape, with coastal areas, mountains, and fertile plains.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Yabucoa had a population of approximately 37,941 people. The majority of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage. The median age in Yabucoa is around 38 years, with a roughly equal gender distribution.
🏛️ History
Yabucoa was founded on October 3, 1793, by Manuel Colón de Bonilla. The city’s name is derived from a Taino Indian word meaning “place of waters”. Yabucoa’s history is deeply rooted in sugar cane cultivation, and it was once home to one of the island’s most productive sugar mills, Central Roig. The mill, now a historical landmark, serves as a reminder of the city’s agricultural past.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Yabucoa is home to several natural attractions. The Humacao Wildlife Refuge is a popular spot for bird watching and exploring native flora and fauna. The city is also home to the Punta Yeguas Nature Reserve, a coastal forest with hiking trails and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Yabucoa’s coastline features beautiful beaches, including El Cocal Beach, known for its golden sand and clear waters.
🏫 Education
Education in Yabucoa is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools offering education from kindergarten through high school. For higher education, residents often travel to nearby cities, as there are no universities within Yabucoa’s city limits.
🚧 Transportation
Yabucoa is accessible by Puerto Rico Highway 3, a major highway that runs along the island’s eastern coast. The city’s public transportation needs are served by the Puerto Rico Metropolitan Bus Authority, providing bus services to other parts of the island. For air travel, residents typically use the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, located approximately 50 miles to the north of Yabucoa.
📜 Trivia & Events
Yabucoa is known for its annual Sugar Cane Festival, a celebration of the city’s agricultural heritage featuring music, dance, and traditional foods. The city is also home to the Yabucoa Lighthouse, a historic structure built in the late 19th century. Despite being damaged by hurricanes, the lighthouse remains a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Yabucoa’s resilience.