North East Coastal Road Trip – Rio Grande to Piñones

What to see: 

This drive takes you from Rio Grande to Piñones.  The Rio Grande portion takes you near the coast but most of the scenery is small towns and lovely tree lined country roads.  As you approach Piñones, the beach will be come a more frequent view, with many places to stop and take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean.  Piñones is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and food.  To get the most out of this trip, enjoy the flavors and seasonings of the fresh seafood, frituras (fried snacks), and meats that have made Piñones famous throughout the Caribbean. 

Time: 

The drive, without stops, is only about 45 minutes.  But I would recommend at least 4 hours and up to a full day to fully enjoy the culture, the food, and the beaches that make Piñones a destination for locals and tourists alike. 

Notes: 

Expect traffic and busy beaches on the weekends and holidays. This trip ends near the airport in Isla Verde, Carolina.  From here, you can easily get to the major freeways (Highway 26) to get you back home.