📍 Location & Geography
Isabela is a city located on the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, the municipalities of Quebradillas and Camuy to the east, San Sebastián to the south, and Aguadilla to the west. The city is known for its diverse and beautiful geography, which includes beaches, rivers, and mountains.
🌎 Coordinates
The coordinates for Isabela are approximately 18.4950° N latitude and 67.0240° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Isabela is part of the Porta del Sol region, a popular tourist destination on the western side of Puerto Rico. It covers an area of approximately 89.6 square miles (232 square kilometers), making it one of the larger municipalities on the island.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Isabela has a population of approximately 43,000 residents. The city is a diverse mix of people, with a majority of the population being of Puerto Rican descent. The city is predominantly Spanish-speaking, although English is also widely understood and spoken due to Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory.
🏛️ History
Isabela was founded on May 21, 1819, by Antonio de los Reyes Correa, a captain in the Spanish army. The city was named in honor of Queen Isabella I of Castile, Spain. Over the years, Isabela has been known for its agricultural industry, particularly sugar cane, coffee, and tobacco. Today, it is a thriving city with a growing tourism industry, thanks to its beautiful beaches and historical sites.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Isabela is blessed with a variety of natural attractions. It is home to numerous beautiful beaches, including Jobos Beach and Montones Beach, which are popular with surfers and beachgoers alike. The city is also home to the Guajataca Forest Reserve, a subtropical moist forest that houses a variety of flora and fauna. In addition, the Rio Guajataca (Guajataca River) runs through the city, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities.
🏫 Education
Isabela has a robust education system with several public and private schools serving its residents. The city is part of the Puerto Rico Department of Education and has several elementary, middle, and high schools. For higher education, the city is home to the Universidad de Puerto Rico en Isabela, a branch of the University of Puerto Rico.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Isabela is primarily by car, with PR-2 being the main highway that runs through the city. The Rafael Hernandez Airport in neighboring Aguadilla provides the nearest commercial air service. For local transportation, public buses and taxis are available.
📜 Trivia & Events
Isabela is known as the “Garden of the Northwest” due to its beautiful natural scenery. The city hosts several annual events, including the Isabela Cockfighting Festival and the Patron Saint Festival in honor of St. Anthony of Padua. Isabela is also home to the Punta Sardina Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Puerto Rico.