📍 Location & Geography
Luquillo is a beautiful town and municipality located on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico. It is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean to the north and El Yunque National Forest, a tropical rainforest, to the south. The town covers a total area of 35.71 square miles, with 7.43 square miles of it being water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Luquillo, Puerto Rico, are approximately 18.3723° N latitude and 65.7161° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Luquillo belongs to the Fajardo Region of Puerto Rico, an area known for its stunning natural beauty and coastal attractions. The town itself spans an area of 26.7 square miles, with a significant portion of it covered by water bodies.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the most recent United States Census data, Luquillo has a population of approximately 20,000 residents. The town is culturally diverse, with a majority of the population being of Hispanic or Latino origin. The median age in Luquillo is around 36.8 years.
🏛️ History
Luquillo was founded in the year 1797 by Cristóbal Guzmán. The town was originally named “San José de Luquillo.” The name Luquillo is derived from the Indian cacique Loquillo, who died a few years after the last Indian rebellion in 1513.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Luquillo is blessed with natural beauty, with its most prominent feature being the El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. The town also boasts a beautiful coastline with popular beaches like Luquillo Beach and La Pared Beach. The offshore waters are rich in marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and other water sports.
🏫 Education
Education in Luquillo is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The town is home to several public and private schools offering education from kindergarten through high school. For higher education, residents typically commute to nearby cities such as Fajardo or San Juan.
🚧 Transportation
Luquillo is well connected by road to other parts of Puerto Rico. The PR-3, a major highway, runs through the town, providing easy access to nearby cities and towns. Public transportation in Luquillo is primarily served by públicos, shared taxi services that operate on set routes. The nearest airport is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.
📜 Trivia & Events
Luquillo is famous for its “Kioskos,” a stretch of kiosks that sell a variety of local foods and crafts. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. The town also hosts several annual events, including the Festival del Coco (Coconut Festival) and the Festival Patronal San José de Luquillo, both of which celebrate the town’s rich culture and heritage.