Located 20 mi/32 km west of Ponce, Guanica, Puerto Rico, was the site of the first U.S. troop landing in the Spanish-American War. It is now noted for the Guanica Forest Reserve.
On UNESCO's list of Biosphere Reserves, the dry forest has 48 rare tree species and is an excellent place for bird-watching. A large, shady beach is within the reserve, as are some abandoned buildings from an old sugar mill.
Copamarina Beach, on the southwestern coast, is an exclusive resort popular with tourists. Guilligan's Island (or Gilligan's, as the locals call it) is an inhabited cay favored by tourists who love to relax in the sun, snorkel or swim in a quiet environment. You can rent a moderately priced boat to make the trip.
