Best Beaches on the West Coast of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Things to Do  ⎮  Puerto Rico Beaches  ⎮ Best Beaches – Puerto Rico West Coast

The Original Guide to Exploring the Gorgeous Coastline of the West

Photos, Maps, Nearby Places to Stay, Tours & Inspiring Travelogues for Each Beach

Table of Contents

Playa Buye

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

Highlights: Clear, calm water, good for swimming, great for kids, amazing sunsets, food kiosks at the beach, water sports rentals.

Playa Buye stands out as the prettiest beach on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico, cherished by local families for its tranquil waters and shallow depths. While numerous beaches boast turquoise waters, Buye distinguishes itself with a soothing hue reminiscent of Flamenco Beach in Culebra.  The ivory-white sand and soft, sandy bottom make it an ideal spot for swimming and play.  Amenities include a restaurant, a laid-back beach bar, kayak rentals, a small shop offering beach essentials and souvenirs, off-street parking, and a fee-based lot.

Buye is not your typical manicured beach; it exudes an authentic local atmosphere, where families gather for picnics, bring radios for music, and children play freely.  It embodies a community party vibe, allowing visitors to immerse in the local beach culture.

While most families gravitate towards the main beach, the north side of Buye offers a mellower scene with spectacularly clear waters akin to glass.  A brief 7-minute walk north unveils a serene environment, providing opportunities for a leisurely beach stroll, capturing photos of leaning palm trees, and exploring the treasures of an undeveloped coastline.

Cayo Caracoles – La Parguera Nature Reserve

Lajas, Puerto Rico

Caracoles Cay, situated on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico, promises to be a highlight of your Puerto Rican adventure, offering a day trip that seamlessly blends coastal adventure and cultural exploration.  The itinerary outlined below stands as one of the best vacation experiences in Puerto Rico.  The waters of Caracoles invite you with their shallow, warm, and crystalline emerald-green embrace.  There is no beach, you’ll always be on the water or on the boat amidst open waters and surrounded by mangrove cays.   Whether you choose to embark on this journey independently by renting a car from San Juan or prefer the convenience of a guided tour that takes care of all the details, Caracoles ensures an unforgettable day in Puerto Rico.

Playa Sucia / La Playuela

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

Embark on an unforgettable journey to La Playuela, a perfectly shaped crescent beach, situated in the most scenic location in all of Puerto Rico.  While Cabo Rojo boasts numerous beaches, if you have just one day for a beach excursion while touring the west coast, make your way to La Playuela, famously known as Playa Sucia.  From the comfort of your beach chair, soak in panoramic views of limestone cliffs and the graceful Los Morrillos Lighthouse.  See below for a wonderful itinerary for an unforgettable day.

Playa El Combate

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

Balneario de Boqueron (Boqueron Beach)

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

Highlights:  Calm water, safe swimming beach area, great for kids, lifeguards, restaurants within walking distance, easy ample parking, sunsets.

When querying locals about the best beaches in Puerto Rico, Boqueron Beach (formally named Balneario de Boqueron), invariably ranks among the top 3.  This beach is a cherished destination for families, renowned for its tranquil waters, which are ideal for children’s play and swimming.  

During Easter and major holidays, it claims the top spot as the go-to beach on the island, transforming Boqueron into a lively and festive hub; however, the remainder of the year retains a serene and relaxed atmosphere. A cluster of tall coconut palms, vibrant Flamboyan trees, and sturdy Almond trees gracefully borders the beach.  Boqueron Beach is situated in the neighborhood of Boqueron, a charming and colorful fishing village popular among locals.  Boqueron Beach attracts weekend visitors from all corners of the island eager to indulge in fresh oysters, clams, and traditional fritters.  To conclude your visit on a perfect note, ensure you stay for the sunset, as this location ranks among the top three places to witness the mesmerizing sunset in Puerto Rico.

Balneario de Rincon (Rincon Beach)

Rincon, Puerto Rico

Balneario de Rincon, affectionately known as Rincon Beach, is the perfect beach for hanging out with family and friends with convenient accessibility.  This active beach is one of the few beaches for swimming, where you can indulge in a variety of activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding.  As the day winds down, Rincon Beach transforms into a magical setting, a popular time for locals and visitors to come to observe the mesmerizing sunsets of Rincon.   A few establishments near the beach offer refreshing drinks, snacks, souvenir shops, and rentals.

+ Rincon, Puerto Rico

Steps Beach / Tres Palmas Marine Reserve

Rincon, Puerto Rico

Steps Beach (Playa Escalera in Spanish) is part of the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve and showcases a thriving coral reef teeming with diverse marine life, including enchanting sea turtles and a flourishing elkhorn garden. The ambiance is laid-back, complemented by the convenience of a nearby food truck, easy beach access, and ample parking. Renowned as the perfect setting for a romantic stroll, Steps Beach reveals hidden spots for relaxation, offering a serene space to appreciate the sights and sounds of the surf. While winter presents challenging surfing conditions, late spring through early fall provides optimal snorkeling opportunities, with the peak experience occurring during the summer months.

Domes Beach

Rincon, Puerto Rico

Come to Domes Beach in Rincon, and bring your surfboard to ride the waves or a lounge chair to relish the exciting spectacle.  Domes has a few benches, picnic tables, and rocks that serve as the best seats to watch surfers.  Domes offers convenient and free parking, making it one of the most accessible beaches in Rincon. 

Pools Beach

Rincon, Puerto Rico

Pools Beach stands as one of the town’s serene retreats on the northwest point of Rincon.  Accessible at the end of Domes Trail or the bottom bend of Carr. 413.  Pools is primarily known as a surfing haven during winter, characterized by its shallow and uncrowded waters.  In the summer, the beach transforms into a tranquil oasis, offering blissfully calm and clear waters that resemble a natural pool – hence its name.  This idyllic setting attracts a select few seeking peaceful moments under the shade of palm trees and warm waters for a refreshing escape.

Sandy Beach

Rincon, Puerto Rico

Sandy Beach is synonymous with beachside bliss, catering to surf enthusiasts, aspiring learners, or those who revel in observing the waves.  Just steps away, Tamboo Bar awaits, a renowned beach bar and winner of Best Caribbean Beach in the Caribbean some years ago, offering a delightful dining experience with delicious drinks.  Explore additional dining options within walking distance, ensuring a variety of culinary delights.  Right on and near Sandy Beach, you can find affordable small inns and vacation rentals. 

Rompeolas Beach

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

Rompeolas is the city beach of Aguadilla, located just minutes from the town square along El Malecon, a concrete oceanside walkway with restaurants and food kiosks.   A wave breaker created a nice spot for swimming in its clear turquoise waters, and there are a few palm trees to claim for relaxation under the shade.  Rompeolas attracts families for its calm water and easy access from the free parking lot.  When you work up an appetite, you’ll have a few food kiosks, cafes, and restaurants to choose from.  If you are at Crash Boat’s and the water happens to be too rough, just head to Rompeolas for calmer water.

Playa Crash Boat Beach

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

Highlights:  Lively atmosphere, snorkeling, scuba diving, swimmable water (normal weather), clear water, beachfront restaurant, food kiosks, amazing sunsets, parking lot with easy access to the beach, and paid parking lot.

As the name implies, this beach was named for the picturesque setting adorned with colorful fishermen’s boats against a backdrop of golden sand.  Unique to Crash Boat, while most surfing beaches pose safety concerns for swimmers in the winter, this beach features a calm side perfect for leisurely swims and an active side catering to surf enthusiasts, making it a favorite among families and surfers alike.  

Bring your snorkel gear if you’re experienced, or book a tour with a local guide; the pier offers excellent snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities with an abundance of colorful fish when the current weather is favorable.  Stay a little longer to catch the wonderful sunsets of the west.

Playa Peña Blanca

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

While Puerto Rico enjoys perpetual summer, Playa Peña Blanca holds a special feature with locals eagerly anticipating winter’s end.  As the sea recedes, a pristine beach with freshly unveiled white sand emerges, creating a coastal haven that feels new year after year. The once-animated surf transforms into a tranquil embrace, inviting beachgoers to indulge in swimming, reef exploration, and delightful encounters with sea turtles that share an affinity for this beach.  Throughout the winter, Playa Peña Blanca becomes a quiet haven for those seeking seclusion, offering a perfect spot to set up a lounge chair, immerse oneself in a captivating book, and relish the soothing melodies of the surf.

Surfer’s Beach

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

As the name implies, Surfer’s Beach attracts those seeking adventure on the waves. While most beachgoers flock to other beaches for a swim, this is our hidden gem. When we’re in Aguadilla and yearn for some serene time away from the crowds, we head to Surfer’s Beach.  Parking adds to the enjoyment; we pull up right to the shore, take out our lounge chairs, take a few steps… and immediately fall into that Puerto Rican paradisial therapy we love…  Nothing but the sounds and sights of the ocean, pelicans dancing in the wind, and surfers in the distance.  The shore features boulders we enjoy passing and photographing, and our spot under the palm trees is always ready for us.  We share because we don’t want to be selfish; hopefully, you’ll get to enjoy it as much as we do.  Another crowd-free chill spot in Aguadilla we love during winter is Playa Peña Blanca.

Survival & Tabletop Beaches

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

If you’re up for an adventure and hike, prepare for the rewarding sights of Survival Beach.  The adventure begins at Surfer’s Beach, guiding you through a lush path with some challenging bends; you’ll first arrive at Tabletop Beach, another breathtaking beach with screensaver-worthy boulders sitting on the water and one in the shape of a tabletop with water cascading, creating mesmerizing sights and sounds.  Keep walking east, and Tabletop leads to Survival Beach, marked by giant boulders on the sand.  You’ll feel like you’re in a movie scene in a dreamy location, where you’re a star.  The effort invested in the hike is unequivocally justified when you capture the essence of this unique landscape, with photos sure to get you plenty of reactions when you share them with friends. 

Shacks Beach

Isabela, Puerto Rico

Shacks Beach is renowned for housing “The Blue Hole,” a premier snorkeling and scuba diving site along the north coast of Puerto Rico.  When the water is tranquil and suitable for swimming, it unveils a vibrant underwater sanctuary teeming with diverse sea life and captivating sea caves to discover.  For your safety, we strongly advise exploring The Blue Hole exclusively with a seasoned local tour guide who can ensure a secure and enriching experience.

Jobos Beach

Isabela, Puerto Rico

Welcome to Jobos – a haven where summer vibes, surfing, and unforgettable moments with friends come together!  Jobos Beach shines as one of Puerto Rico’s premier year-round surfing destinations, providing an ideal setting for both seasoned surfers and those eager to catch their first wave. The clear waters showcase enchanting deep turquoise and emerald hues, creating a mesmerizing backdrop against the golden sands and cliffs that frame the cove.

If you’re not in the mood for a surf session, a cozy, protected area invites you to cool off, watch the surfers in action, and bask in the laid-back beach vibes. Like Crash Boat in Aguadilla, Jobos offers visitors a delightful taste of Puerto Rican beach culture with mouthwatering food, refreshing frappes, and piña coladas served at casual beachfront restaurants, cafes, and pubs. The sea breeze carries a melody of salsa tunes and reggaeton, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Weekends and summertime transform Jobos into a lively, family-friendly fiesta, while weekdays offer a more relaxed and laid-back scene. Get ready for a beach day brimming with fun, sun, and the infectious energy of Jobos!

Montones Beaches

Isabela, Puerto Rico

Montones Beach is the perfect beach destination for families with little ones, offering a sandy shore with the shallowest and safest areas for your children to play, allowing you to unwind with peace of mind.  Conveniently, a food kiosk on the beach alleviates the need to pack your own provisions.  If you want to extend the enjoyment into the evening, venture to Jobos Beach nearby, where various restaurants await, providing a delightful setting for a sunset dinner after a day of fun at Montones.  Although the waters are shallow, please keep an eye on your children at all times and don’t let them play too close to the rocks.  There are no lifeguards at the beach. 

Poza Las Golondrinas

Isabela, Puerto Rico

+ Poza Las Golondrinas, Isabela, Puerto Rico

Playa Middles

Isabela, Puerto Rico

Playa Middles stands proudly as one of the premier surfing destinations on the north coast of Puerto Rico, playing host to annual surfing competitions that draw enthusiasts from far and wide.  While it may be renowned for its exceptional surfing conditions, don’t overlook this beach’s other treasures.  Offering a pristine and undeveloped shoreline, Playa Middles features golden sands adorned with sea shells, sea glass, and tranquil tidal pools, providing the perfect setting for relaxation.  The rocky terrain adds a unique charm, creating an ideal vantage point for observing the surf and immersing yourself in the rhythmic serenade of the ocean.  As you venture towards the east end, a striking rock wall marks the culmination, where the crashing waves put on a mesmerizing foamy spectacle that seamlessly merges with the clouds above.

Pozo Teodoro

Isabela, Puerto Rico

Pozo Teodoro stands as a serene gem on the West Coast, offering a tranquil haven where you can spend your time watching the rhythmic crash of the waves, unwinding on the gentle waters, and indulging in some beachcombing for unique shells.  The beach boasts a broad expanse of soft, golden, honey-hued sand to claim a spot and lay for the perfect tan.  Pozo Teodoro exhibits a fluctuation in size depending on the surf, with the pool varying between 3 to 3.5 feet deep during winters and shallow 2 feet during summer months.  The prime times to experience its beauty are from September to May.

Posita Sardinera

Isabela, Puerto Rico

Posita Sardinera, the smallest of all-natural pools in Isabela, is big on beauty, boasting calm waters and a wow factor for those enchanted by the sounds and sights of the roaring seas.  As you approach Posita Sardinera from the main road and gaze out from your car, it may not appear all that special.  You’ll be tempted to keep driving towards the next beach; you can barely see the natural pool area from the road because, as the name implies, it is indeed really small.  It’s not until you get up close that you can truly appreciate how special this “little pool” is.  We’ve had countless conversations with travelers, and they all express how magical this little beach is, especially for families with small children and romantics who love to gaze at the surf and sunsets.  Read the full article for the best way to enjoy the beach and safety tips.

Playa El Pastillo

Isabela, Puerto Rico

How can one capture the essence of Playa El Pastillo in Isabela?  We love this beach so much; it is the longest travelogue for a beach in the entire guide.  Perhaps it’s a yearning for winter to wane, eagerly anticipating the receding seas, revealing its enchanting features for us to relish once more.  If you find yourself on the northwest coast of Puerto Rico between July and early August, we extend an invitation to experience El Pastillo Beach, especially when the beach cave is likely to be open.  

While not suitable for swimming, if you love walking on the beach, Pastillo is a must for your itinerary on the west.  To the west, cliffs embrace the beach, harboring a hidden cave and a blowhole cherished by our Taino Natives.  Nature has sculpted a silhouette of a Taino Chief on the cliff, the original “Cara de Indio,” a secret we proudly shared online after learning about it from a local in Isabela.  As you venture east, discover serene spots to unwind, a shallow area for bathing, a snorkeling haven, a rocky perch for fishing, and tidal pools to bask, refresh, and achieve that perfect tan. Most importantly, revel in its undeveloped charm, resembling the Caribbean of yesteryears, just as nature intended.

Playa Pelicano

Isabela, Puerto Rico

For those who love hiking and watching the surf, Playa Pelicano stands as a serene retreat.  A prominent boulder turned into a sculpture takes center stage, withstanding the water’s polishing at its base, prompting visitors to ponder how long it will stand.  If you share our love for pelicans, their playful antics and dives into the water for tasty sardines will surely make you smile.  Accessing Playa Pelicano requires a long hike from Playa El Pastillo.  For more direct access to Playa Pelicano, head to the Guajataca Tunnel; the park’s entrance is situated in the neighboring town of Quebradillas.  Along the Guajataca trail, you’ll be treated to additional stunning views of the coastline and captivating photographic boulders.

Playa Guajataca

Quebradillas, Puerto Rico

Playa Guajataca boasts unique qualities that reveal themselves when you take a leisurely stroll and pause to appreciate the details. As you reach the center of the beach, the inviting palm trees beckon you toward the ocean.  Walking east unveils hidden gems – boulders that break the surf and rock table tops forming an infinity pool visible only during low tide in the summer.  Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck with off-shore fishing.  

Heading west, marvel at one of the most photographed rocks, best viewed from the tunnel entrance.  While swimming is not recommended due to strong surf and currents, you can find refreshment at the Guajataca River, which delineates the border between Quebradillas to the east and Isabela to the west.  Officially, the Guajataca Tunnel is located in the town of Isabela.

Puerto Rico Things to Do  ⎮  Puerto Rico Beaches  ⎮ Best Beaches – Puerto Rico West Coast