Guanica is perhaps one of the unique beach destinations on the main island of Puerto Rico. Hiking and nature lovers will enjoy the oceanside trails leading to secret beach coves with breathtaking, untamed natural beauty. The landscape is subtropical, unlike anywhere on the island.
Playa Tamarindo
Playa Tamarindo is a nature lover’s beach like no other in Puerto Rico since is located in the subtropical dry forest of Guánica Biosphere Reserve. The beach is rarely crowded, and very peaceful. There are three sides to Tamarindo Beach, one for lounging and observing the surf, one for playing on the waves, and one for relaxation and floating on shallow waters over grass beds where baby fish play. Tamarindo Beach is the last beach you can access by car, and the drive is very scenic.
Playa Santa
Head to Playa Santa, one of the most popular beaches for locals when they wish to enjoy family-friendly water sports. Local vendors rent kayaks, jet skis, banana boats, boat rides, and more. If you wish to relax on the beach, you’ll also find umbrella and lounge rentals.
Playa Santa boats have baby blue tones, water perfect for various watersports, and the perfect dry, balmy weather year-round of Guanica. Locals love it for its food and family-friendly atmosphere, and safe water for swimming. Playa Santa is both lively and relaxed, come during summer and you’ll experience how Puerto Ricans live island life by the sea, come during the winter months and find a more relaxed vibe with few people on the beach.
Playa Jaboncillo
- A scenic stop as you go beach hopping in Guanica is Playa Jaboncillo… spectacular views from the road and from your beach chair too. Most of the beach floor is grassy but there are some clear spots for bathing and playing in the water. There are some old picnic tables and a gazebo but no bathroom facilities.
Playa Atolladora
- Playa Atolladora is an obligatory stop for everyone taking a drive along the coast of the Guanica State Forest, it just begs everyone to stop. Heading east you get a peak from the road tempting you to see what’s behind the trees and the water that makes that melodious sound. Driving along the road heading west, cars always stop to take a photo of the beach with its striking shades of emerald green and blue framed by the rocky and sandy shore. Playa Atolladora offers very easy access with parking just across the road. When we visit, we typically find honeymooners and lovebirds enjoying the beach in total peace or have it to ourselves.
Playa Ballena
- Ballena Bay Beach is one of our favorites for walking, the sounds of the waves are loud, and the beach is wide and long. Along the way, you’ll find shallow pools for bathing, the scenery, and quiet and lush landscape will give you a great escape as the rugged natural landscape of a Caribbean beach totally embraces you. There are mangroves along the shore, many seashells, and old wood that look like art pieces that wash up along the coast giving you many photographic opportunities.
