Stunning view of Crash Boat Beach in Aguadilla.

Stunning view of Crash Boat Beach in Aguadilla.

Best Beaches in Puerto Rico

Soak in the sun, ride the waves, explore underwater life, and find your favorite beach.

What is a Caribbean vacation without some beach time? In Puerto Rico, there are over 270 miles of coastline that translate into nearly 300 beaches to choose from. Sandy trails lead to astonishing natural pools of crystalline waters that will leave you in awe, regardless of what you choose to do during your visit. 

The diverse geography of the island presents locations that attract many water sports aficionados such as surfers, bodysurfers, paddleboarders, snorkelers, divers, and more. Some beaches also provide that secluded cove setting that anyone who wants to get away from crowds would appreciate. However, if you are in fact looking for a “party beach,” Puerto Rico has those too. 

So, whether you want to take a break and soak in the sun, ride the waves, or explore underwater life, the island has a perfect beach to your liking.

View of Flamenco beach in Culebra.

Flamenco beach in Culebra is one of Puerto Rico's top beaches.

Flamenco Beach

Culebra 

Clear skies above your head and warm white sand beneath your feet is the way Flamenco beach will make you fall in love with it. This “picture postcard” captivating beach has been catalogued as one of the top beaches in the world. Ideal for swimming, unwinding, and simply beach-bumming, this location is the very reason visitors choose to venture outside the main island. 

Aerial view of Playuela Beach in Cabo Rojo.

Playuela Beach in Cabo Rojo.

La Playuela

Cabo Rojo 

This southwestern halfmoon-shaped gem will leave you in awe with its breathtaking waters and scenery. It takes a little bit of hiking to get there, but once you arrive, you will see how magnificent its dramatic landscape is. La Playuela is perfect for either a lazy day under the sun or an adventure exploring the astonishing surroundings. 

Two people enjoying Crashboat Beach in Aguadilla.

Crashboat Beach in Aguadilla.

Crash Boat

Aguadilla

This is the most popular beach in Aguadilla. With a wide range of activities to do like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and -during the winter- surfing, Crash Boat is a playground for everyone. A few feet away is El Natural, a famous diving spot with a huge reef full of marine activity. 

Aerial view of Icacos Beach.

The turquoise waters of Icacos Beach.

Cayo Icacos

Fajardo

The clarity of the water there is like no other on the east coast of Puerto Rico. The long strips of reefs beside the abandoned pier is home to many schools of fish and other marine creatures that you’ll get to observe while you snorkel. Whether it is by a water taxi or a private charter, don’t miss the chance to stroll around the white-sand shore of this natural reserve and spend a great day of swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding under the sun. 

Aerial view of Domes Beach in Rincón.

Domes Beach in Rincón.

Domes

Rincón

A true surfer’s haven, Domes is located between a lighthouse and Puerto Rico's inactive nuclear reactor. With turquoise waters and golden sand, this beach is a great spot for whale watching during the winter. Although it is not a place to go swimming, it is a fun beach to lay back and relax, watch surfing competitions, and even take a horseback riding tour. 

View of Jobos beach in Isabela.

Jobos

Isabela

Just like Crash Boat, this lively and vibrant beach is a local favorite because of the many attractions surrounding it. Jobos' waters glisten like a true stained-glass masterpiece and the prominent vegetation will provide many layouts where you can rest in the shade. 

Underwater view of a mangrove in Gilligan's Island.

Cayo Aurora, also known as Gilligan's Island, is a cay made by mangroves.

Cayo Aurora (Gilligan’s Island)

Guánica

Although it is not officially a beach, this cay has the clearest water in Puerto Rico. Nicknamed after the popular TV show, it is part of the Guánica Biosphere Reserve. You can swim all around the small island with little to no effort, which makes this place great for a beginner snorkeler or swimmer. It is fenced in by a healthy mangrove system that creates intimate spots throughout the cay. 

La Monserrate

Luquillo

This heart-stirring beach – a popular choice because of its facilities – is preferred by families and large groups of people. Sometimes designated as a Blue Flag beach, the calm waves and low tides makes it ideal to bring kids to play around. The balneario even has a camping and picnic designated area.

Combate Beach

Cabo Rojo

As a part of the Boquerón National State Forest, Combate beach is also a popular choice. Its sparkling waters and large-scale reefs turn pristine shores into a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Preferred by younger crowds, this site is the ideal to enjoy the best sunsets in Puerto Rico. Be sure to jump off the pier… it’s a thing there! 

Sun Bay

Vieques

White sandy strips and turquoise blue waters… who needs more? Sun Bay is Vieques' trendiest spot and you’ll immediately see why. There are tall palms trees and lush landscape where you can hang up a hammock and simply admire the dreamy surroundings. This beach has been awarded the Blue Flag recognition many times. 

Tortuga

Culebrita 

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this white-sand cove that serves as a home and feeding ground to green turtles is one of Culebra’s hidden gems. Almost considered a deserted beach bliss, you can bump into many beautiful sea creatures while doing some amateur snorkeling. It is recommended to take up a charter and don’t miss the wonders of this tropical paradise. 

El Escambrón

San Juan

This is the perfect spot to witness the contrast between the Old San Juan and the modern city. Recognized with Blue Flag awards throughout the years, El Escambrón is the most picturesque beach in San Juan. There you can do anything from snorkeling and swimming to having a romantic stroll. It is also part of the Tercer Milenio Park, which offers fun recreational activities and services. 

Pelícano Beach

Ponce

The protected sanctuary Caja de Muertos has one of the most crystalline waters in the south of Puerto Rico. It received the first Blue Flag distinction to a beach located at a natural reserve. There, you’ll be facing the open waters of the Caribbean Sea and watching a variety of birds that nest in the hills near the boulders. Its name, which translates to "coffin" derives from the shape of the cay. 

Montones

Isabela

Direct access and its shallowness make this natural pool the family-preferred beach in Isabela. The depthless tides provide a safe environment for kids and toddlers to play around while the adults relish in the calmness of the scenery. A natural wall prevents the strong surf from rushing in. The crowd you’ll find there is mostly local.

Playita Rosada

Lajas

Lajas is known for its offshore cays, but a wooden pier built by the Department of Natural Resources leads to a pool loved by adults and children. As part of La Parguera Natural Reserve, at Playita Rosada you can discover many ecosystems, hike along designated trails, and splash the day away at this unbeaten location.

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