Playa Montones – Isabela, Puerto Rico
2024 Beach Guide

Puerto Rico ⎮  Isabela, Puerto Rico  ⎮ Isabela Beaches – Playa Montones

A perfect shallow pool can be found at Montones, evidence that Nature is an excellent architect.  Out of all the natural pools in Isabela, Montones is the largest, with the added enticement of a restaurant right on the beach along with beachfront accommodations.  What could be more perfect for a beach vacation? Direct access makes this beach one of the most family-friendly vacation spots.  

Surprisingly, Montones is still relatively unknown to tourists so the crowd is mostly local and only visited on weekends.  Couples and beach lovers seeking a quiet retreat from busyness will find Montones rather vacant during weekdays from Fall to late Spring.

During normal weather, Montones holds the shallowest beach in Isabela, making it a favorite for families with toddlers and young children.  The tidal pools are perfect for small children to play safely in the water.  Many of the Isabela beaches are best for long walks, sunbathing,  or water-watching rather than swimming so Montones is a welcome haven for ocean-lovers who wish to spend their time in the water. For others who like to kick back and just watch the sea in its glory, the enjoyment of colors, cool waters, warm sun, and creamy waves will likely meet expectations.  During the summer months, the water is calmer, the west side of Montones offers some spots safe for swimming and relaxing on the water.  During bad weather and stormy weather, the water gets deeper and the strong waves coming in which may make it unsafe for children to be in the water.

The Beach at Montones Beach

Depending on the tide, the beach area can be very narrow.   On a busy day, it may feel a bit crowded.  The busy season is the summer months when school students are on break.  This beach is popular among local families with toddlers for the safety of the shallow water.   During inclement weather, the water can get a bit rough and unsafe for small children to play.

The natural wall prevents the strongest surf from rushing in.  A sandy isthmus connects the two very distinct beaches of Montones. One for relaxing in safe water…

… to the west of Montones, the beach is used by surfers, bodyboarders, and windsurfers, but is not recommended for swimming due to the currents.

At the widest area of sandy beach, this is the best spot to enjoy a panoramic view of Montones and take in the scene and watch surfers ride the waves.

Facilities at Playa Montones, Isabela, Puerto Rico

As with many of the Isabela beaches, there are no lifeguards at Montones. Visitors swim at their own risk.  Locals are very friendly and they’re known to help when others are in need.

No bathrooms are present at Montones.  There are bathrooms at the hotel so you may want to take a mid-day break for lunch at the restaurant and perhaps use the restaurant restroom.

Directions: There are 2 access roads along PR 466.  One at Km marker 9 (more parking along the street but with a longer walk east to the best area) and at Km marker 9.7 (alot less parking but an easier and shorter walk).