If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Rico, there is a lot to see and do on the island, but a weekend in La Parguera can’t be missed! Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a trip with friends or a solo vacation, this itinerary for a weekend in La Parguera includes eco-tourism activities, as well as suggestions for the best places to stay and eat.
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In the spring of 2023, I visited La Parguera, with a few fellow women travel content creators, as part of a FAM trip associated with WITS. During this incredible trip, I explored the wonderful food, drink, hospitality and activities of the Southwest region of Puerto Rico. Read on for more on this beautiful part of the island, along with a collection of tips for making you visit it eco-conscious.
A Little Bit About La Parguera
Welcome to the charming coastal town of La Parguera, known for its bioluminescent bay and unique natural features. One of the first things that is likely to stand out is the lack of beaches on this corner of the island. Instead, you can spend your days exploring the mangrove forests, going snorkeling or scuba diving, or taking a boat tour of the “Cayo” (keys) that make up the unique landscape here. La Parguera is known for its rich marine biodiversity. You’ll encounter a variety of marine species, including tropical fish, sea turtles, rays and maybe even a manatee! Once the sun goes down, you won’t want to miss one of the world’s top natural phenomenon that exists here. Witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent organisms that light up the water at night on a tour of “Bahia Bioluminiscente” (Bioluminescent Bay).
This barrio of Lajas, Puerto Rico was established as a fishing village in the early 1800s, the town was named after one of the locally available seafood sources, “Pargo” the local name for Northern red snapper. So it’s no surprise that one of the highlights of spending a weekend in La Parguera is the food.
How to Get to La Parguera from San Juan
Located approximately 100 miles Southwest of San Juan, the ride to La Parguera takes about 3 hours by car. My experience getting to La Parguera was via pre-arranged shuttle, but a rental car would have been my alternative choice. While there are airports nearer to La Parguera with short flights out of San Juan, the town is only accessible by car. It’s worth noting there will likely be tolls along your drive as well, so make sure you have the proper means to cover the tolls (change on hand or toll tag in the car).
Where to stay in La Parguera
Parador Villa Parguera
This waterfront hotel in La Parguera is the perfect home base for your stay in the area. The vintage beach vibes and airy layout of the hotel compliment the region’s personality. Staying at Parador Villa Parguera for two nights is a delightful experience that combines comfort and natural beauty. You should have no problem settling into this centrally located, family friendly hotel. The property is backdropped by the gentle sea breeze and light waves, creating a tranquil ambiance that encourages relaxation.
As you approach Parador Villa Parguera, you’ll immediately notice its charming, Spanish-style architecture nestled among lush tropical surroundings. The warm and friendly staff will welcome you with a genuine smile, setting the tone for your stay.
Many rooms feature balconies or terraces, providing stunning views of the mangroves lining the Caribbean Sea and the hotels’ beautifully landscaped, tropical gardens.
During your stay, you’ll have access to a range of amenities, including a swimming pool (perfect spot to soak up the sun) and a pool side bar offering refreshing cocktails. They also have an on-site restaurant, Aqua Marina, that offers an array of dishes. [Note: we did not eat at the hotel restaurant while staying at Parador Villa Parguera as it was closed for the season. Read on for recommendations on places to eat in La Parguera.]
Nightly rates at Parador Villa Parguera range from ~$140-$170 per night.
Other Places to Stay in La Parguera
Parguera Plaza Hotel
Located directly across the street from Parador Villa Parguera, this gorgeously updated property first opened it’s doors in Summer of 2023. This hotel is unique in that it is an adult only hotel. They have a variety of accommodation options. Each room boasts minimalist design, featuring modern amenities and furnishings, and views of the property and surrounding town. At Parguera Plaza Hotel, you can take a dip in the pool to cool off on a warm day. Or, relax in one of their bohemian chic poolside cabanas on the sun deck with a cocktail. There’s also a restaurant on-site Brújula serving Puerto Rican and international cuisine (featured below in Where to Eat in La Parguera).
Nightly stays here start ~$140 per night.
Things to Do in La Parguera
Explore Mangroves By Caribbean ChiliBoats
Caribbean ChiliBoats in La Parguera, Puerto Rico, offers an exciting and eco-friendly adventure option for nature enthusiasts. While there is some physical labour involved, this tour is ‘as easy as riding a bike’! And it is a boat load of fun!!
You’ll board one of the specially designed vessels, best described as a pontoon-like bicycle that provides a platform at water level. These “boats ” are human-powered, which ultimately minimizes their environmental impact. They glide smoothly through the shallow waters, fully immersing you in the tranquil beauty of the mangrove ecosystem.
As you navigate through this unique landscape, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the rich marine biodiversity that calls this area home. Keep an eye out for colorful fish, crustaceans, iguanas and various species of birds. Your guides will educate you about the importance of preserving the fragile mangroves and the need for responsible tourism. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem and the importance of protecting it.
Caribbean ChiliBoats is an excellent eco-tourism activity that you can feel good about supporting. Their sustainable tourism practices help protect and preserve the fragile ecosystems of La Parguera, and Old San Juan waters.
Interested in a Caribbean Chiliboats tour? The group sizes range from 2 to 10 people per tour. Due to the design of the Chiliboats, there are height (4’6″ to 6’5″) and weight (240lbs maximum.) restrictions to consider. Tours cost ~$70, last 2-2.5 hours and include: one waterbike per person, lifejacket, whistle, a bottle of water and a snack. They also offer tours of Old San Juan. BOOK HERE
Sunset Cruise and Bioluminescent Bay Snorkeling with Paradise Scuba & Snorkel
Looking to physically get into the water during your weekend in La Parguera ? Look no further than Paradise Scuba & Snorkeling and their popular Bio Bay and Sunset Snorkel experience.
Paradise Scuba & Snorkel in La Parguera, Puerto Rico, offers an immersive eco-tourism experience that allows visitors to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Caribbean while emphasizing environmental conservation.
Your tour begins with a friendly and informative briefing by certified guides who are passionate about marine conservation. They’ll provide insights into the local marine life, the importance of preserving the ecosystem, and guidelines for responsible snorkeling.
While I opted out of the sunset snorkel to watch the sunset from the boat, the snorkeling in bio bay was an incredible experience. Unfortunately, I don’t have any great photos to share due to the restricted lighting but can describe the experience as swimming through pixie dust, as every movement triggers a mesmerizing trail of luminescence.
Bioluminescent bays or “bio bays” are bodies of water where microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates grow in quantities large enough to produce a “glow-in-the-dark” effect called bioluminescence. When you paddle or splash the water, these organisms shine in a neon blue-green color, making the water look as if it was lit by billions of glowing stars.
There are only five ecosystems in the world where the concentration of these dinoflagellates is high enough to be considered a bioluminescent bay, and Puerto Rico is home to three of them!
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The Paradise Scuba & Snorkel Bio Bay and Sunset Snorkel experience is a boat ride, offered daily from 4pm-8:30pm and includes a snack and beverage, use of a snorkel and fins. Prices range from $90 pp (adult) and $45 pp (children 5 or younger; infants ride for free). BOOK HERE
Where to Eat in La Parguera
Eating Sustainably in Puerto Rico
Wherever you decide to eat, opt for locally sourced meat and produce. The island is abounded with seafood options as well as tropical fruits and vegetables. Choosing to consume locally harvested goods is the perfect way to reduce your ecological footprint! It’s worth noting, many of the restaurants have made a shift to only using compostable straws. Of course, you can always skip it.
M & M Bakery & Deli
M&M Bakery & Deli is the perfect stop to start your day off on the right foot! You can expect fresh coffee as well as a selection of baked pastries, as well as sandwiches. It’s an excellent choice for a quick and delicious morning meal before exploring the attractions of La Parguera! They have a small indoor seating and a lovely, covered outdoor cafe space where you can watch the town wake up (which may include a visit from a cat or rooster). Our group sampled a selection of traditional pastries for breakfast (questitos, guava mantecaditos and palmeritas – YUM!!!!)
Restaurant El Karacol
Eating at Restaurant El Karacol in La Parguera, offers a cozy and authentic dining experience, and they offer a variety of Puerto Rican dishes. The wood paneled atmosphere echoes that of any good seafood restaurant, making it an ideal place to savor local flavors. The restaurant is located on the waterside square and also offers outdoor seating. They are known for their sangria and mofongo. It’s also where I discovered the heavenly combination of fried cheese dipped in guava sauce, as part of their appetizer plate, which we shared. I also ordered the ceviche (one of the best I’ve had) and their langosta (lobster) mofongo.
101 West Kitchen and Bar
Located on the outskirts of La Parguera, 101 West Kitchen and Bar provides a modern and upscale dining experience. Guests can expect a fusion of Caribbean and international cuisine, creatively presented in a stylish setting. The restaurant has indoor seating but boats a large outdoor patio where they regularly feature live music. Here we shared an appetizer of plantains and rolls, and I had their langosta ravioli (#noregrets).
Isla Cueva Beer & Burger Bar
Isla Cueva Beer & Burger Bar is located in the heart of La Parguera and offers a more casual dining experience. They have a delicious selection of burgers (mine had sweet plantains on it – still drooling) and Puerto Rico crafted beers on tap (I got a flight). The beach bar vibes are heavy here with tiki and surfing accents, creating a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great spot to enjoy comfort food and drinks while soaking in the local atmosphere of La Parguera.
Brújula
Dining at Brújula (Parguera Plaza Hotel), is a delightful experience that combines fresh seafood and a bohemian poolside ambiance. Guests can expect a menu rich in local specialties, including seafood dishes, paired with tropical cocktails, like the food pictured below. Here I ordered the (absolutely delightful mahi risotto) and the table shared a slice of tropical cheesecake and pistachio crème brûlée for dessert.
Is La Parguera Worth The Trip?
If you are looking for a couple days away from San Juan, La Parguera is absolutely worth the trip! As your two-night stay in La Parguera, comes to an end, you’ll find it hard to say goodbye to this beautiful destination. The memories of your time here, whether spent exploring the natural wonders or simply relaxing by the pool, will linger. A weekend in La Parguera is a perfect blend of natural and cultural exploration, making for a memorable Puerto Rico getaway.
Planning to spend a few more days in Puerto Rico – check out our other post for budget friendly ways to explore Puerto Rico.
Would you visit La Parguera?