📍 Location & Geography
Toa Baja is a city located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Dorado to the west, Toa Alta to the south, and Cataño to the east. It is part of the San Juan-Caguas-Guaynabo Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is divided into several wards, with the downtown area known as Toa Baja Pueblo.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Toa Baja are approximately 18.4464° N latitude and 66.2324° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Toa Baja is located in the northern region of Puerto Rico, covering an area of approximately 62.4 square miles (161.6 square kilometers). The city is largely flat, with a few small hills, and is characterized by its coastal plains and marshy areas, particularly around the Campanillas and Bucarabones rivers.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Toa Baja has a population of approximately 80,000 people. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities, though the majority are of Hispanic or Latino origin. The median age in Toa Baja is around 38 years.
🏛️ History
Toa Baja was founded in 1745 by Spanish colonists and was originally known as “Toa Baxa del Norte” to distinguish it from its southern neighbor, Toa Alta. The city has a rich history, with several historical landmarks including the “Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción” church, which dates back to the 18th century.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Toa Baja is known for its beautiful beaches, including Punta Salinas and Balneario Punta Guilarte. The city is also home to the “Toa Baja State Forest”, a natural reserve that serves as a habitat for various species of flora and fauna. The city’s location on the coast and its marshy areas make it an important site for migratory birds.
🏫 Education
Toa Baja is served by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. There are several public and private schools in the city, providing education from kindergarten through high school. The city is also home to a few technical and vocational schools.
🚧 Transportation
Toa Baja is well connected by road to other parts of Puerto Rico, with PR-2 and PR-165 being the main highways passing through the city. The city is also served by public buses and taxis. The nearest airport is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, which is approximately 15 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
Toa Baja hosts several cultural and recreational events throughout the year. One of the most popular is the “Festival del Pescao”, a festival dedicated to the city’s fishing heritage. The city is also known for its “Carnaval Toabajeño”, a carnival featuring parades, music, and dance.