Fajardo

Fajardo is a municipality located in the province of Puerto Rico, situated in the southeastern region of the island. It is part of the San Juan metropolitan area and is bordered by the municipalities of Humacao to the east, Naguabo to the north, and Arroyo to the west. The municipality covers an area of approximately 100 square kilometers and has a varied landscape that includes coastal plains, hills, and the easternmost section of the El Yunque National Forest.

The history of Fajardo dates back to the Spanish colonial period, with its origins tied to the establishment of agricultural settlements in the 18th century. The area was initially part of the larger municipality of Humacao before becoming an independent municipality in 1903. Fajardo’s economy has historically been driven by agriculture, particularly the cultivation of coffee, cacao, and later sugarcane. Today, tourism plays a significant role in its economy, with the municipality serving as a gateway to several popular attractions.

One of the most notable features of Fajardo is its proximity to the bioluminescent bay, known as Laguna Grande, where the water glows at night due to microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates. The municipality also offers access to the Atlantic Ocean, with beaches such as Playa La Pared and Playa La Piscina, which are popular for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Additionally, Fajardo is a starting point for excursions to the nearby islands of Culebra and Vieques, which are accessible via ferry from the Fajardo Marina.

The municipality is home to a mix of rural and urban areas, with a population of around 30,000 residents as of recent estimates. Fajardo is known for its cultural diversity, reflecting the island’s history of Spanish, African, and Taíno influences. The local cuisine often incorporates traditional Puerto Rican flavors, with seafood being a staple due to the municipality’s coastal location. Fajardo also hosts annual festivals, such as the Fajardo Carnival, which celebrates the community’s heritage with music, dance, and parades.