📍 Location & Geography
Carolina is a city located on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is part of the San Juan-Caguas-Guaynabo Metropolitan Statistical Area. Carolina is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, the municipalities of Loíza to the east, Trujillo Alto to the south, and San Juan to the west. The city is characterized by a mix of beaches, coastal plains, and mountainous regions.
🌎 Coordinates
The coordinates for Carolina, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.3808° N latitude and 65.9574° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Carolina spans a total area of about 61.81 square miles (160.1 km²), of which approximately 45.23 square miles (117.1 km²) is land and 16.58 square miles (42.9 km²) is water. The city is divided into several barrios or wards, each with its own unique character and charm.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2019, Carolina had a population of approximately 176,762 people. The city is diverse, with a majority of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The median age in Carolina is around 38 years, and the city has a roughly equal distribution of males and females.
🏛️ History
Carolina was founded on July 31, 1857, by Spanish colonists and was originally known as Trujillo Bajo. The city was later renamed in honor of Carlos II (Charles II), the King of Spain. Over the years, Carolina has grown from a small agricultural town into a bustling city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and economic activity.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Carolina is home to several natural attractions. The city boasts beautiful beaches like Balneario de Carolina and Isla Verde Beach. Additionally, it houses the Julia de Burgos Park, a large urban park that offers recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Carolina is also home to the Carolina Beach National Park, a protected area that preserves the city’s coastal and marine ecosystems.
🏫 Education
The education system in Carolina is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has numerous public and private schools, offering education from kindergarten through high school. Carolina also hosts several institutions of higher education, including the University of Puerto Rico, Carolina Campus, and the Metropolitan University.
🚧 Transportation
Carolina is served by various modes of transportation. The city is home to the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, the busiest airport in the Caribbean region. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, and there are several major highways that pass through the city, facilitating road travel to other parts of Puerto Rico.
📜 Trivia & Events
Carolina is often referred to as “La Tierra de Gigantes” (The Land of Giants), in honor of several well-known personalities from the city, including the late baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Carolina International Jazz Festival and the Roberto Clemente Week, which celebrates the life and career of the baseball legend.