Yesterday was our wedding anniversary (9 years!) and so we decided to take a day trip to Isabela, Puerto Rico. Isabela is just around the northwestern corner of the island and not too far of a drive for us from Rincón.
We planned our trip to hit on a few sights around town. We didn’t know exactly where we were going, so we made our way first to the town plaza. If you ever go to a city in Puerto Rico, go to the plaza first as this will orient you to the rest of the area. We had a light snack and then headed out to Jobos (pronounced Hobos) Beach.
Jobos makes a splash!
We had never been to Jobos before, but it was pretty cool. There is a long stretch of beach that had waves – even in the flat summer- and many surfers hanging out. We found ourselves in an area of Jobos that looked to have been at one point in the earth’s history the bottom of the ocean with petrified coral stone.
It was here that we found the Pozo de Jacinto. According to local lore, Jacinto’s cow fell into this hole (pozo means well) and dragged poor Jacinto with him. Now there is a legend that you can call to Jacinto and the well will burst up with a splash through the hole.
Britton calling for Jacinto and his cow
On our way to dinner, we found this cool Taino Indian face that is sculpted into the mountain right before Highway 2.
Taino Head
The finale to our Isabela trip was dinner and a walk around the acreage of Royal Isabela. We had heard great things about this place from a few people and so we thought that would make for a romantic anniversary dinner. It is a little hard to spot as you drive on the 113 in Isabela, but once you do, you will enter into a beautifully landscaped private golf course/restaurant/hotel. When they opened the private gates to our beat up old Dodge truck we sort of felt like the Beverly Hillbillies, but they still let us in.
La Casa at Royal Isabela
It was pretty quiet there with only a few other guests. We walked around and admired the architecture, view and plants while enjoying a nice mojito prior to dinner. At dinner we were both quite impressed with the taste, presentation and quality of the food.
A fancy meal at sunset
We had a great day out in Isabela and it was a fantastic way to spend an anniversary.
hey, 8/6 is our aniv also!
You both look happy and rested. Happy Anniversary!
Congratulations. Sounds like a perfect day. BTW, any idea how old the Taino head is? Just wondering.
Hi Cassie and Britton,
I just discovered your blog – love it! Congrats on the anniversary and living your dreams abroad. My husband and I are bloggers, also interested in moving abroad. In fact, we are planning our PR move for Nov-Dec ’14. It sounds like you’ve successfully done what we’re about to do. That’s very encouraging and we’re excited that there are others like us. We would love to connect with you and swap stories!
We would appreciate any and all advice.
Please drop us a quick email!
Love that Taino Indian face!
First of all Happy Anniversary. I have heard of the Royal Isabella and that they have a fan brunch on Sundays. Haven’t gotten there yet but hopefully soon.
The Taino Indian sculpture is right down the road from where we live-Quebradilla. We see it on the way to Isabella and Aguadilla.
Keep blogging. I really enjoy your adventures.