If you're looking to vacation off-the-beaten-path in Puerto Rico, look no further than beautiful Villa Cecilia in the Islote section of Arecibo, PR. Since the property is off a northern coastal route on an unnamed road, Victor, the property owner, sent us a pin drop with the exact location on the day of arrival. Victor met us on the property and gave us the tour of how everything is run (pool, hot tub, light switches, etc.) The property is exactly as Victor describes and photographs. The three bedrooms were clean and air conditioned. The master bedroom looks out on a pool and has a very comfortable, plush but firm mattress. The master bedroom has remote mood lighting, where you can change the brightness to warm or cool. Cold water was provided in the refrigerator, which we were thankful for since we hadn't brought any provisions upon arrival. A local grocery store is close by. The kitchen cabinets also had various food items that we were free to use. All kitchen tools were provided. A full-sized washing machine and dryer is also available, along with a shelf full of cleaning supplies.
Victor texted us a list of nearby restaurants (we recommend Salitre a few minutes down the road), as well as a list of outdoor bars and food kiosks that sell everything from frituras (deep fried street food) to hollowed out pineapples with fresh tropical juices inside. The next morning, Victor sent us video of things to do from hiking at the Indian Cave (La Cueva del Indio), a few minutes down the road, to exploring the Window Caves (Cueva Ventana). Since hurricane Maria, beach erosion has done a number on the area beaches. Close by is Playa La Poza del Obispo that does have a wider sand area that overlooks a lighthouse. Area beaches have rough waves and rocky shores and are not overly child friendly.
The property looks out on the ocean. From the upper roof deck, you can either be in the hot tub, hammock or suspended swivel chairs and have vantage point views of the ocean and surrounding hills. At night the crashing wave sounds lulled us to sleep. Don't be surprised if the area roosters wake you up in the morning. It's part of the charm.
There is a home that abuts the property; the owners did a good job of masking it from the pool side. The area is quiet at night. It is fenced in and can be locked.
The property is ideal for folks who want to escape the island resorts and chain hotels and instead experience a home away from home.
