During the last half of our stay in Puerto Rico, we visited the beach and the rainforest. Our time at the beach was perfect. It was not too crowded and we found a breezy, shaded spot under some trees. The kids spent all of the time in the water or playing in the sand. Maeve didn't reapply sunscreen soon enough and found out how quickly the sun can burn your skin. She was fine, but it was just another reminder for us to be careful. We only went in the water for a short time and still saw the effects of the sun on us the next day. We ate sandwiches and snacks and just relaxed. Great day!
Liam and Charlie cooling off- the girls in the background
Zoe and Maeve cooling off
We also finally made it to El Yunque, the rainforest. We had tried earlier in our visit, but it was so crowded and there was no parking. That was so unfortunate because it was over an hour drive to get there. We stopped halfway up the mountain and ate at a food stand that serves empanadas before the return trip. The Garcias were kind enough to take us back another day. We left earlier this time and went during the week. We were able to park on the side of the road. There is a paved trail that leads you to a waterfall. You spend a lot of time making sure you don't slip and making room for others walking by on their return trip. I made sure I paused to take in the views of the massive trees and foliage.
It's about a half hour hike to the waterfalls. It was a little crowded, but not too crazy. The kids immediately found their way over the rocks and into the water. Zoe was a great tour guide and helped Maeve and Liam find their way safely to the main waterfall. After I felt I had enough footage of their experience, I patiently waited for one of them to exit the water so they could watch my gear and I could jump in. I wasn't going to be an observer on this one. The water was cold, but refreshing! Definitely worth the trip!
Zoe pointed out the other smaller water fall and parts to explore. This involved far more rock climbing than I was anticipating. Michael said he was going with the kids to make sure they were safe and Maeve balked and refused to go. She regretted that decision 3 minutes later and I found myself climbing with her to join them. At least we got our exercise in for the day. Liam found a large rock and carried it with this goofy grin on his face that said to me, "I'm taking this with me." I told him the rock wasn't going anywhere. The words were barely out of my mouth when he slipped and the rock fell and landed on his pinky finger. He was fine, but his finger was a bit swollen and bruised. Suddenly Mom was the wise person that he should have listened to and he clinged to me the entire hike back. Another lesson learned: a first aid kit is of no use if you don't bring it with you....sigh.
The beginning of our hike in El Yunque
Zoe and Liam made it to the waterfall
The other side of the waterfall where we had to navigate our way over the rocks for more swimming
Proof I made it to the waterfall
Maeve taking a break to pose
So we say good bye to Puerto Rico and the Garcia Family. You were the most gracious and generous hosts. Muchas Gracias!
We now have to continue on our journey alone. Costa Rica, here we come.
All our gear for the adventure