With over 200 beaches along nearly 300 miles of coastline, Puerto Rico is a true paradise for beach lovers. Beyond its vibrant surf spots, the Island hides a treasure trove of calm beaches where soft sands, quiet coves, and crystal-clear waters create the perfect setting to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature.
Whether you dream of lounging under swaying palms, floating in tranquil waters, or strolling along peaceful shores, you'll find the best calm beaches in Puerto Rico to match your perfect day.
Here’s your guide to six of the calmest and safest beaches in Puerto Rico — ready to welcome you into their laid-back embrace.
Beach day, safely!
Learn all about Puerto Rico's climate, get real-time weather updates, and find resources to help you enjoy our natural wonders safely.

The golden sands and clear waters of La Poza del Obispo beach are ideal for families with kids.
La Poza del Obispo
Perfect for: families, couples, and nature enthusiasts
Tucked beneath a historic lighthouse in the northern town of Arecibo is a place that forces you to disconnect from everyday life and engage with your surroundings. La Poza del Obispo beach may be small in size, but a natural phenomenon makes it a must-visit: limestone rocks that surround the beach prevent the tide from rising, creating a natural pool of calm water. This relaxing beach is ideal for families with kids to spend the day splashing around in the clear waters and golden sand.
Keep in mind that while there is a spacious parking lot, there are no businesses around, so you will have to bring your supplies for a day of sunbathing and swimming.

Peña Blanca is a secluded beach on Puerto Rico's northwest coast.
Peña Blanca
Perfect for: couples, solo travelers, and snorkelers
This quiet, off-the-beaten-path beach is in Aguadilla, a town along Puerto Rico’s dreamy northwest coast. The first thing you’ll notice about Peña Blanca is the impressive white karst walls that make up its distinctive landscape. Besides adding to the beautiful, postcard-ready setting, these cave-like hollow spaces double as shelter from the sun or an enclave for quiet meditation. You can also hang up a hammock between palm trees or throw a towel on the sand to enjoy the tropical breeze.
There is varied and active marine life beneath the water, so it is recommended to bring snorkel gear with you to observe turtles, fish, and more. The beach becomes a haven for surfers during the winter, so if it's relaxation you're after, it's best to visit between May and August when the waters are calmest.

Known by locals as "Cueva de las Golondrinas," Playa Pastillo features luscious landscapes and beautiful, serene waters.
Playa Pastillo
Perfect for: couples, photographers, and solo travelers
Situated in the northern town of Isabela, this beach is locally known as Cueva de las Golondrinas — not to be confused with a beach of the same name in Manatí. Here, the lush vegetation covering the cliffs contrasts with the turquoise waves that crash on the shore, providing a serene setting for unwinding. There are no facilities on the beach, so you will have to bring everything you need for a beach day.
Although there is not much shade, you can find shelter from the sun along the hollow entrances in the cliff or under a palm tree. There is a large cave on the west side of the beach, perfect for private walks and #NoFilterNeeded photo ops. Playa Pastillo is the kind of spot to bring a beach chair and a book, or a towel to sunbathe, but it is not recommended for swimming. It is most accessible during the summer when the northern tides are at their lowest.

Playa Caracas is easily accessed inside the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.
Playa Caracas
Perfect for: families, couples, and casual swimmers
Popular, yet never crowded, you can find Playa Caracas (formerly Red Beach) on the island of Vieques. It is one of the beaches with easy access inside the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, and it boasts some of the most astonishing scenery on the island, with dramatic rock formations carpeted by lush vegetation.
The soft, diamond-dust sand blends harmoniously with the intense turquoise waters, where you can do a little boogie boarding, swim, or simply float. There are lifeguards on duty, making Caracas ideal for families with children. There are a few gazebos around the beach, and although there are no bathrooms on-site, you can visit the ones at the entrance of the refuge.

Stunning view overlooking the nature preserve on Isla Caja de Muertos.
Isla Caja de Muertos
Perfect for: nature lovers, couples, birdwatchers, and casual hikers.
Although the beach's proper name is Playa Pelícano, it is known as Caja de Muertos, which is the name of the nature reserve where it is located. This tiny island just off the coast of Ponce has been dubbed one of the Top Enchanting Attractions in Puerto Rico, and the sanctuary is home to a diversity of fauna and flora you can spend the day relishing in. Besides making the most of a tranquil day at the beach, you can also hike to the island’s lighthouse and do some birdwatching while you’re there.
This protected beach has the most crystalline waters in the south of Puerto Rico, and serves as a gateway to reconnect with nature and recharge your soul. Caja de Muertos can only be reached by boat.

Playuela Beach in Cabo Rojo.
La Playuela
Perfect for: couples, photographers, and solo travelers
Commonly known as Playa Sucia, this beach is one of Cabo Rojo’s most popular beaches. The breathtaking views of the lighthouse and the surrounding cliffs complement the sounds of the gentle waves crashing on the shore. As part of Cabo Rojo’s nature reserve, you’ll find striking landscapes and plenty of sand to recline on.
If all you want to do is some beach bumming or to work on your suntan, this is the place for you. La Playuela is just steps away from Los Morrillos lighthouse, where you can finish off your day with a spectacular sunset photoshoot to show your friends and family back home.
Leave Only Footprints
Please leave only footprints! Most of these locations are secluded, pristine beaches where you won’t find restrooms, food kiosks, or other facilities. Please be mindful and help keep these natural places clean by bringing trash bags and packing out everything you brought.
With around 300 miles of coastline, Puerto Rico's beautiful beaches can be found all over the Island. Here are some of our favorites!
Calm Puerto Rico Beaches FAQs
What is the clearest beach water in Puerto Rico?
Playa Flamenco in Culebra and Playa Caracas in Vieques are famous for having some of the clearest beach waters in Puerto Rico. Both offer crystal-clear, calm waters ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and simply soaking up the beauty of the Caribbean.
Which side of Puerto Rico has the calmest water?
The south and west coasts of Puerto Rico generally have the calmest water, especially towns like Cabo Rojo, Lajas, and parts of Rincón. These areas are more sheltered from strong Atlantic currents, offering some of the calmest beaches in Puerto Rico for swimming and relaxing.
What is the safest beach for swimming in Puerto Rico?
Playa Caracas in Vieques and Combate Beach in Cabo Rojo are among the safest beaches for swimming in Puerto Rico, thanks to their calm waters, clear visibility, and family-friendly environments.
When is the best time to visit calm beaches in Puerto Rico?
The best time to visit Puerto Rico’s calm beaches is between May and August, when ocean conditions are typically gentler, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the shore.
Are there family-friendly calm beaches in Puerto Rico?
Yes! Beaches like La Poza del Obispo in Arecibo and Playa Caracas in Vieques offer calm waters and safe conditions that are ideal for families with young children.
Where can I find hidden or secluded calm beaches in Puerto Rico?
Hidden gems like Peña Blanca in Aguadilla and Playa Pastillo in Isabela offer secluded, calm beach experiences away from the crowds — perfect for peaceful escapes.
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