Welcome to Guaynabo Suburbs
Guaynabo, a suburb in the Greater San Juan Area, is situated on the Island's northern shore and features an eclectic blend of historical significance, modern allure, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The 27-square-mile city is conveniently located between the territory's capital, San Juan, to the east, and the cities of Aguas Buenas to the south, Bayamón to the west, and Catao and the Bay of San Juan to the north. Guaynabo consists of nine barrios in addition to Guaynabo Pueblo, the suburb's administrative hub. Guaynabo is made of gated communities, many of which were built in the 1990s and 2000s.
Although Spanish is the official language of Puerto Rico, the municipality of Guaynabo was the first to utilize English as the primary language on the area’s street signs and government buildings. In the early 1500s, Guaynabo was the capital of Puerto Rico until the capital was moved to its current location, Old San Juan. It was also the home of Juan Ponce de León, the first Governor of Puerto Rico.
What to Love
Local Lifestyle
Guaynabo’s suburbs are the perfect place for anyone looking for an urban yet peaceful lifestyle. The suburbs feature plenty of open areas and recreational opportunities like running, tennis, soccer, and baseball. Residents enjoy visiting country clubs, which are major social attractions in Guaynabo. Caparra Country Club is a popular gathering spot on weeknights and weekends for local families who enjoy sports and socializing.
Guaynabo is home to La Marquesa Forest Park, a beautiful forest reserve covering about 600 acres. Locals enjoy coming here to hike, ride a cable car, and explore the on-site aviary.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
San Patricio Plaza is the go-to shopping destination in Guaynabo. This complex is home to over 120 stores, a movie theater showing the latest blockbuster movies, and several popular restaurants serving a wide variety of cuisine. In addition to San Patricio Plaza, Guaynabo boasts several other retail plazas, including Plaza Real and Plaza Guaynabo.
Wilo Eatery and Bar is an excellent spot for lunch or dinner with friends. This premium casual restaurant and bar features entrees with global flavors, handcrafted drinks, and a modern wine selection. Meanwhile, Bottles provides a more refined dining experience with its delicious fare, large portions, and extensive wine list. This steakhouse features some of the best cuts of meat in Guaynabo.
Enjoy flavorful entrees like pasta and artisan sandwiches at La Hacienda. This laidback restaurant located in City View Plaza offers a wide selection of dishes in an airy setting with modern accents.
Things to Do
There is no better place to enjoy the outdoors in Guaynabo than in La Marquesa Forest Park. La Marquesa's 600+ acres of rainforest are home to thrilling zip lines, relaxing gondola rides, scenic hikes, and lots of fun for the whole family. Children will enjoy learning about tropical birds at the aviary. Alternatively, history buffs love visiting the Caparra Ruins. This iconic landmark houses the remains of the area’s first Spanish capital, first settled in the 1500s.
Visit VIP Caribbean Cinema in San Patricio Plaza to watch a highly anticipated film. The cinema’s VIP concept allows movie watchers to enjoy a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience complete with libations, cuisine, and comfortable seating.
Grab a ticket to a show at Centro de Bellas Artes Guaynabo. This performing arts theater features numerous live shows, and the building's grandeur symbolizes the city's promising social, economic, and cultural future.
While Guaynabo is not directly on the beach, it is close to Condado and Ocean Park, two locations that are less than twenty minutes away by car. Residents and visitors can enjoy miles of pristine coastline and beautiful beaches here.
Schools
Top education opportunities in Guaynabo’s suburbs include:
- The Baldwin School of Puerto Rico, Grades PK-12
- Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, Grades 7-12
