If you’re looking for some history with your beach adventure, you’ll definitely want to check out Cueva del Indio, just outside of Arecibo, Puerto Rico. Right along the coast, you’ll find a string of magnificent sea caves that fade into beautiful beaches on both sides. This outcrop of sea cave holds one of the most amazing historic finds on the island, Cueva del Indio.
This specific cave has dozens of pre-columbian petroglyphs carved into the walls, still visible from hundreds of years ago. These markings were left by the Taino people who peacefully lived on the island prior to the arrival of Christopher Columbus. These petroglyphs are pristinely preserved and visible in many parts of the cave.
Prior to the hurricane, there was a ladder extending down into the cave, so that you could descend and see all of the beautiful markings on the walls. Now, you may need help from a guide to squeeze through a small crevasse into the cave. Wear comfortable shoes that have good grip.
Inside the cave, there is a large hole in the ground where the sea rises up and down with the crashing waves. You can explore little tunnels throughout the cave and find something new each time. There is also a large hole in the roof of the cave, letting in streams of sunlight during the day. This is actually where a scene from Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed. When Jack Sparrow is in a cave, holding the gold coin up to the moonlight, that was filmed in this cave.
There are lots of adjoining sea arches that stretch on both sides of the cave and fade into beautiful beaches. You can walk along the arches and explore. We even found an iguana friend while exploring…
This is an excellent experience. Do be careful for bees. There is a massive bee colony in the ceiling of the cave that is hundreds of years old, I was told. As long as you don’t approach the hive, they leave people alone.
There is a parking lot where you can leave your car right at the cave. It costs $5 to enter. Again, wear comfortable shoes, as this is rough terrain in and around the caves. Enjoy!