Puerto Rico: Coastal Views, Sea Life & Artist's Inspiration

Just back from a quick trip to Puerto Rico. Henry had a work trip and I stowed away in his suitcase. I can never turn down a free hotel room and an opportunity to photograph my favorite subject, the beach. We stayed about an hour east of San Juan, near Fajardo, and the hilly landscape offered incredible, sweeping views of the aqua water stretching out below.

Another beautiful view from Las Croabas.

Since Henry was busy with work, I happily embraced my inner mermaid swimming around Isla Palomino, a small island east of Fajardo. Floating in that clear water was pure bliss. I even spotted a few sand sharks and a sea turtle swimming by.

View of the water from Isla Palominos

View of the water from Isla Palominos

I loved talking strolls around the beach and sandy trails looking for iguanas and sea shells.

Dried coral found on the beach at Isla Palominos

Sea shells found on the beach at Isla Palominos

But honestly, photos don't even begin to capture the true beauty of Puerto Rico. If you get the chance, promise me you'll book an evening kayaking tour of one of their bioluminescent bays. Puerto Rico is home to three of the five locations in the world that has this phenomenon. Paddling through that sparkling lagoon at night? Absolutely mind-blowing. It's one of those things you have to see to believe.

Now that my phone is overflowing with Puerto Rico beach photos, I can't wait to get back into the studio and painting. Expect some new coastal paintings with that vibrant Caribbean light soon!