Guanica is a small town on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, best known for the Guanica State Forest — a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with 48 rare tree species and excellent birdwatching. The subtropical dry forest is one of the best-preserved examples in the world and makes for good hiking.
The town is also the site of the first US troop landing during the Spanish-American War in 1898. The coastline around Guanica has some of Puerto Rico's finest beaches. Playa Caña Gorda is a calm, family-friendly stretch with clear water and good facilities. Playa Ballena nearby has bigger waves and a wilder feel — keep an eye on children in the water. Boat rentals are available for exploring the coast, including the mangrove Cayos de Caña Gorda just offshore.