📍 Location & Geography
Puerto Real is a neighborhood located in the municipality of Fajardo, on the eastern coast of Puerto Rico. It is situated on the northeastern tip of the island, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. The area is characterized by its coastal plains, with a few hills and mountains in the vicinity.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Puerto Real are approximately 18.3256° N latitude and 65.6528° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Puerto Real is part of the Fajardo municipality, which is one of the 78 municipalities of Puerto Rico. The municipality is located in the Eastern Coastal Plains region of the island. Puerto Real itself is a relatively small neighborhood, with a total area of approximately 2 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
As Puerto Real is a neighborhood within the Fajardo municipality, it doesn’t have its own separate census data. However, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the entire municipality of Fajardo had a population of approximately 34,000 people as of 2019. The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and cultures, reflecting the rich history of Puerto Rico.
🏛️ History
Puerto Real, like the rest of Fajardo, has a history that dates back to the early 16th century when the island was colonized by Spain. The area was named after Santiago de Fajardo, the son of the Spanish Governor. Over the centuries, the region has seen significant development, transitioning from a primarily agricultural economy to a more diversified one, with tourism and services playing a major role.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Puerto Real is known for its beautiful coastal scenery and tropical climate. The area is home to several natural attractions, including the nearby El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. The region is also home to a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
🏫 Education
Education in Puerto Real is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. There are several public and private schools in the Fajardo municipality that serve the residents of Puerto Real. The University of Puerto Rico at Humacao, a public university, is also located relatively close to the neighborhood.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in Puerto Real is primarily by road, with PR-3 being the main highway serving the area. The Fajardo Ferry Terminal, which provides ferry services to the islands of Vieques and Culebra, is also located nearby. The closest major airport is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, which is approximately an hour’s drive away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Puerto Real is close to several notable attractions in Fajardo, including the Bioluminescent Bay, one of the few places in the world where you can see bioluminescent organisms. The area also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Fajardo Seafood Festival and the Fajardo Christmas Boat Parade.