Chances are the first place you'll arrive in Puerto Rico is Carolina since it's the home of Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport.  Once past the fast food and car rental chaos surrounding most airports, Carolina offers some surprises.  Sadly many visitors arrive in Carolina, head to Isla Verde, never leave and think they've been to San Juan.  This is a mistake.  Although the municipality abuts San Juan it has a lovely public beach all its own and is also close to the charming seaside village of Piñones which though technically a part of Loiza, is just a short drive (or car share) from San Juan and Isla Verde.  Piñones offers great views, the heady smell of charcoal grills making pinchos (Puertorican meat on a stick), native ices, charming bars and restaurants and an incredible view of the capital city from beyond its protective reef.  All and all-- not a bad place to visit!