Physical Geography of Puerto Rico: Mountains, Coasts, Rainforests & More

Puerto Rico is the smallest and easternmost island of the Greater Antilles, located ~1,000 miles southeast of Miami. The archipelago includes the main island (rectangular, ~100 x 35 miles, 3,515 sq mi) and smaller islands: Vieques, Culebra, and Mona.

Topography

A rugged central mountain range (Cordillera Central) runs east-west. Highest point: **Cerro de Punta (4,390 ft / 1,338 m)**. The terrain descends to coastal plains north and south.

Coastline (~275 miles)

• North: Rocky cliffs, dramatic karst formations.
• South: Gentler slopes, mangroves, sandy beaches.
• East (Culebra/Vieques): World-class beaches (Flamenco Beach).
• Bioluminescent bays (Mosquito Bay, Laguna Grande, La Parguera) – rare ecosystems glowing with dinoflagellates.

Climate

Tropical marine. Average temps: 75°F (Jan) to 84°F (Aug). Rainy season: May–Dec; Dry season: Jan–Apr. Trade winds moderate heat.

Ecosystems & Biodiversity

• El Yunque National Forest: Only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System. High endemism (coquí frog, Puerto Rican parrot).
• Dry forests (Guánica), coastal mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass beds.
• Marine life: Sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, whales (seasonal).

Four Geographic Regions

1. Northern Coastal Plain (urban, beaches, karst).
2. Central Mountain Range (rugged, coffee country, highest peaks).
3. Southern Coastal Plain (agricultural, drier, historic sugar region).
4. Eastern Region (less developed, rainforests, offshore islands).

This compact diversity makes Puerto Rico a microcosm of Caribbean landscapes.