📍 Location & Geography
Aguada is a charming coastal town located on the western side of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the town of Rincón to the north, the municipality of Añasco to the east, and Aguadilla to the south. The town is characterized by its beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and fertile valleys.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Aguada, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.3813° N latitude and 67.1882° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Aguada is part of the Aguada region in Puerto Rico. The town covers a total area of approximately 31.6 square miles (81.9 square kilometers), of which about 30 square miles (78 square kilometers) is land and 1.6 square miles (4.1 square kilometers) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Aguada had a population of approximately 41,959 people. The population is predominantly Hispanic, reflecting the town’s rich Puerto Rican heritage. The median age of the residents is around 36 years. Spanish is the dominant language spoken in Aguada, although English is also widely understood and spoken.
🏛️ History
Aguada was founded by the Spanish in 1510, making it one of the oldest towns in Puerto Rico. The town’s name, which means “watered” in Spanish, was given due to the abundance of fresh water springs in the area. Aguada played a significant role in Puerto Rico’s history, serving as the landing site for Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the New World in 1493.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Aguada is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green landscapes, beautiful beaches, and clear blue waters. The town is home to several nature reserves and parks, including the Pico de Piedra Beach and the Coloso Sugar Cane Refinery, an important historical site. The town’s climate is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round and a rainy season from April to November.
🏫 Education
Aguada has a strong educational infrastructure, with several public and private schools serving the community. The town is part of the Puerto Rico Department of Education district. Schools in Aguada include Luis Muñoz Marín Elementary School, Nemesio R. Canales High School, and the University of Puerto Rico at Aguada.
🚧 Transportation
Aguada is served by the Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla, which is approximately 9 miles (14 kilometers) away. The town has a good network of roads, including Puerto Rico Highway 2, which connects Aguada with other towns on the island. Public transportation in Aguada includes public buses and taxis.
📜 Trivia & Events
Aguada is known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts several annual events, including the Festival de la Chopa, a popular seafood festival, and the Aguada Christmas Festival. The town is also home to the Aguada Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the town and Puerto Rico.