📍 Location & Geography
Manatí is a vibrant city located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, the municipalities of Barceloneta and Florida to the west, Ciales and Morovis to the south, and Vega Baja to the east. The city’s terrain is diverse, consisting of coastal plains to the north and hilly areas to the south. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, including Los Tubos, Mar Chiquita, and Tortuguero.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Manatí, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.42 degrees latitude and -66.49 degrees longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Manatí is part of the San Juan-Caguas-Guaynabo Metropolitan Statistical Area in Puerto Rico. The city spans a total area of about 51.35 square miles (133.0 km²), of which 29.64 square miles (76.8 km²) is land and 21.71 square miles (56.2 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Manatí had a population of approximately 44,113 people. The city is known for its diverse population, with a mix of different ethnicities and cultures. The majority of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino. The median age in Manatí is around 38 years, and there is a slightly higher percentage of females than males in the population.
🏛️ History
Manatí was founded in 1738 by Don Pedro Menéndez Valdés. The city, whose name is derived from a sea mammal found in the area called the ‘manatee’, played a significant role in the sugar industry during the 19th and 20th centuries. It was known as the “Athens of Puerto Rico” in the early 20th century due to its vibrant cultural and intellectual activities.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Manatí is home to a variety of natural attractions. The Tortuguero Lagoon Natural Reserve is a popular spot, known for its diverse ecosystem and as a nesting site for sea turtles. The city’s beaches, such as Mar Chiquita, are also popular for their natural beauty. The city is committed to preserving its natural environment and has several initiatives in place to protect its coastal and marine areas.
🏫 Education
Education in Manatí is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools serving students from kindergarten to 12th grade. Higher education opportunities are also available with institutions like the American University of Puerto Rico, Manatí Campus, and the Dewey University.
🚧 Transportation
Manatí is well-connected by road, with Puerto Rico Highway 2 being the major thoroughfare passing through the city. It also has access to Puerto Rico Highway 22, which connects it to San Juan and other major cities. Public transportation in the city is provided by the Puerto Rico Metropolitan Bus Authority, which operates several routes in the area.
📜 Trivia & Events
Manatí is known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts several events throughout the year. One of the most notable is the Manatí Carnival, held annually in February, which features parades, music, and traditional Puerto Rican cuisine. The city is also home to the Manatí Athenaeum, a cultural institution that hosts various artistic and cultural activities. In sports, Manatí is home to the Atenienses de Manatí, a professional basketball team in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional league.