📍 Location & Geography
Santa Isabel is a coastal town and municipality located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, bordered by the municipalities of Juana Díaz to the west, and Salinas to the east. It is part of the Ponce Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and the Playa de Jauca, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
🌎 Coordinates
Santa Isabel is located at approximately 17.97 degrees north latitude and 66.40 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Santa Isabel is part of the Ponce Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is one of the three primary metropolitan areas in Puerto Rico. The town covers an area of approximately 34.43 square miles (89.2 square kilometers), of which 3.14 square miles (8.13 square kilometers) is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 Census, Santa Isabel had a population of approximately 23,274 people. The population is predominantly of Hispanic or Latino origin, with a significant majority identifying as Puerto Rican. The town is also home to a small community of non-Hispanic whites and African Americans.
🏛️ History
Santa Isabel was founded on October 5, 1842 by Antonio Vélez. The town was named in honor of Queen Isabel II of Spain. Santa Isabel is also known as “La Ciudad de los Potros” or “City of Colts”, due to its rich tradition in horse breeding and horse racing.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Santa Isabel is blessed with a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The town is home to several natural attractions, including the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, a protected area that is home to many species of birds and marine life. The town’s coastal location also provides for beautiful beaches and opportunities for water sports.
🏫 Education
Education in Santa Isabel is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The town has several public and private schools that offer education from kindergarten through high school. There are also opportunities for higher education in nearby towns and cities.
🚧 Transportation
Santa Isabel is accessible by Puerto Rico Highway 52, a major highway that connects the town to Ponce and San Juan. The town also has a public transportation system that includes public buses. The nearest airport is Mercedita Airport in Ponce, which offers domestic flights.
📜 Trivia & Events
Santa Isabel is known for its annual Festival del Pescao, a festival that celebrates the town’s fishing heritage. The festival includes a fishing tournament, live music, and local food. The town is also home to the Santa Isabel Speedway, a popular venue for drag racing.