Happy TravellerWelcome to Guayama, Puerto Rico, a vibrant city and municipality located on the Caribbean coast. With a population of over 36,000, Guayama is the center of the Guayama metropolitan area and boasts a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a thriving economy. Join us as we explore the many wonders of Guayama and discover why this hidden gem should be on every traveler’s radar.
Guayama’s name is derived from the Taíno word ‘wayama,’ which means ‘great place’ or ‘big open space.’ The city was founded in 1736 by Spanish Governor Matías de Abadía and was officially declared a town with the name of San Antonio de Padua de Guayama. Today, visitors can explore the city’s rich history by visiting landmarks such as the San Antonio de Padua Church, Guayama Town Plaza, and the Casa Cautiño Museum.
One of Guayama’s most popular attractions is the Guavate-Carite Forest, a 6,000-acre nature reserve that is home to 50 species of birds and a dwarf forest produced by the region’s high humidity and moist soil. The Aguirre State Forest is another must-visit destination, featuring mangroves, tidal flats, bird rookeries, research lakes, and a large manatee population. The Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is also located in Guayama and is a great spot for birdwatching and exploring the area’s unique ecosystems.
Guayama is also home to a thriving economy, with various pharmaceutical and manufacturing companies such as Pfizer, Baxter, Eli Lilly, and Tapi. The AES coal power plant is also located in Guayama and transmits and distributes electricity through a 25-year contract with the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority.
When it comes to food, Guayama does not disappoint. The city is known for its mouthwatering local cuisine, including seafood dishes such as mofongo de camarones (mashed plantains with shrimp) and arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas). Visitors can also indulge in traditional Puerto Rican sweets such as quesitos (cheese-filled pastries) and tembleque (coconut pudding).
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply soaking up the local culture, Guayama has something for everyone. Come and discover the many treasures of this enchanting destination and experience the beauty and charm of Puerto Rico’s Caribbean coast.
