El Yunque and the Northeast Places

Río Grande

This urban cluster of about 50,000 residents proudly calls itself "The City of El Yunque," as it's the closest community to the rain forest and most of the reserve falls within its district borders. Two images of the rare green parrot, which makes its home in El Yunque, are found on the city's coat of arms; another parrot peeks out at you from the town's flag. The city is also near the posh Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa, a Wyndham Grand Resort, which is known for its seaside golf courses, lovely beach, and first-class restaurants.

Río Espíritu Santo, which runs through Río Grande, begins in El Yunque's highest elevations and is the island's only navigable river. It was once used to transport lumber, sugar, and coffee from plantations, and immigrants flocked to the region to take advantage of the employment opportunities. Many of today's residents can trace their families to Spain, Austria, and Italy.