📍 Location & Geography
Patillas is a municipality located on the southeastern coast of Puerto Rico. It is bordered by the municipalities of Maunabo and Yabucoa to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the south, and San Lorenzo and Cayey to the west. The city is known for its beautiful coastal landscapes, hilly terrain, and lush greenery.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Patillas, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.0066° N latitude and 66.0161° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Patillas is part of the Eastern Coastal Plains region of Puerto Rico. The municipality covers a total area of approximately 45.15 square miles (116.9 km²), of which 27.6 square miles (71.5 km²) is land and 17.6 square miles (45.5 km²) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As per the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Patillas was estimated to be around 19,277 in 2010. The population is predominantly Hispanic, with Spanish being the primary language spoken in the area.
🏛️ History
Patillas was founded in 1811 by Don Agustín López. The name “Patillas” is a Spanish word for “watermelons,” which were plentiful in the region during the town’s early years. The city was originally an agricultural hub, with sugar cane, coffee, and tobacco being the primary crops.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Patillas is known for its stunning natural beauty. It is home to several beautiful beaches, including Guardarraya Beach and Mariani Beach. The city also boasts the Patillas Lake, which is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The Carite Forest Reserve, located partly within Patillas, offers hiking trails and stunning views of the island.
🏫 Education
Education in Patillas is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools that offer education from kindergarten through high school. Higher education opportunities are available in nearby cities.
🚧 Transportation
Patillas is accessible via Puerto Rico Highway 3, which runs along the island’s eastern coast. The city does not have its own airport; the nearest major airport is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, which is about 60 miles to the north.
📜 Trivia & Events
Patillas is known as “La Esmeralda del Sur” or “The Emerald of the South” due to its lush, green landscapes. The city hosts several annual events, including the Watermelon Festival, which celebrates the town’s namesake fruit.