A brilliant sunset from Tres Palmas beach, on the west coast of Puerto Rico.
West
Catch some waves and laidback vibes in Puerto Rico's capital of surfing and sunsets.
Home to some of the best beaches on the Island, the west region is the undisputed surfing capital of Puerto Rico – and the Caribbean – and features the best sunsets on the Island. The feel on the west side is different from the hustle and bustle of the San Juan metropolitan area. Towns here have a more relaxed surfer vibe, which isn’t a coincidence since surfers flock to Rincón from all over to ride the waves at iconic beaches like María’s beach and Domes.
REGION FACTS
Distance from San Juan's airport: 2–2.5 hours
Distance from Aguadilla’s airport: 45 minutes–1 hour
Surfers flock to Rincón, the surfing capital of the Caribbean.
The salt flats in Cabo Rojo appear a vibrant pink shade.
Guánica State Forest & Biosphere Reserve is the best example of a dry forest in the Caribbean region.
La Parguera is a paradise for watersports including snorkeling, kiteboarding, and scuba diving.
For breathtaking sunsets, head to Rincón on the west coast.
Get back in touch with nature in Cabo Rojo.
From the Mirador de Guajataca you can enjoy the sea breeze and the best views.
The Monument to Cacique Mabodamaca in Isabela is a sculpture made in honor of a Taíno chief.
The historic Teatro Yagüez in Mayagüez is an excellent venue to see a show.
Explore the West Region
Surfers await the perfect wave at Domes Beach in Rincón.
Surfing and sunsets — that's what Rincón is all about.
Explore Rincón
A view of Guánica lagoon during a beautiful sunset.
Known as the "paradise of eternal summer," Guánica is home to the best-preserved tropical dry forest in the Caribbean.
Explore Guánica
Enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Cabo Rojo.
This off-the-beaten-path coastal gem is worth exploring for its unique landscapes and protected beaches.
Explore Cabo RojoNo passport needed for U.S. travelers
Since Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, American citizens and permanent residents don't need a passport to travel to the Island. However, they must always travel with a valid ID, such as driver license or a state ID card.
Peering over Guánica Dry Forest from historic Fuerte Caprón.
Things to Do
The west region is ideal for enjoying water activities, particularly surfing. Beginners who want to learn can find lessons in Isabela, Aguadilla, or Rincón, and more experienced riders can find board rentals and local advice from area surf shops.
For travelers who prefer to stay on dry land, explore Los Morrillos Lighthouse, the puente de piedra (a natural stone bridge), the salt flats, and a stunning white-sand beach called Playuela, all of which can be found at the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge. For hikers, Guánica State Forest offers trails through one of the most extensive tropical dry coastal forests in the world. Visit Mayagüez and stroll through the picturesque Plaza de Colón or catch a live performance at the historic Teatro Yagüez. In Isabela, you can enjoy a horseback ride on the beach and pop into beachfront restaurants to savor seafood, local draft beers, mojitos, and fresh coconut water. Also, be sure not to miss La Parguera, a quaint fishing village in Lajas, which is a playground for water sports including kayaking and kiteboarding and is home to one of the five bioluminescent bays in the world.
Where to Stay
In western Puerto Rico, you will find a variety of accommodation options for every style and budget. There are luxurious properties like Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa in Guánica, the Mayagüez Resort & Casino, a first-class hotel in Mayagüez, and Royal Isabela, a noteworthy golf course and resort with oceanview villas. You can also choose from casual beachside guesthouses, modest inns, and paradores (small, family owned properties) like Villa Cofresí Hotel & Restaurant and Combate Beach Resort, which is located in a nature reserve steps from one of the best beaches of Cabo Rojo.
Where to Eat
Head west and discover some of the most eclectic and exciting restaurants on the Island. From charming stands alongside popular surfing beaches to food trucks with diverse offerings to one of the Island's most popular breakfast spots, there are lots of ways to enjoy a meal on Puerto Rico's west coast. You definitely won't want to miss sunset happy hour at one of the many open-air bars and restaurants along the coast in Rincón.
In Episode 2 of our "Sounds like Puerto Rico" series, we're taking you to the west coast of our Island, where you'll relish in the beautiful views and relaxing vibes, and learn all about the surfing culture in Puerto Rico. You'll also learn some local lingo used among the surfers and Boricuas. Let's surf!
More Places to Explore
· More Places to Explore · More Places to Explore ·
The coastline in Aguada
Aguada
Explore the "City of Discovery" on Puerto Rico's west coast.
Aguadilla is known to have some of the best surf breaks on the Island.
Aguadilla
Ocean views, fresh seafood, and so much more.
The Catholic church overlooking Añasco's town square, Plaza de Recreo José A. Pesante.
Añasco
Get away to a hidden gem on the west coast.
Hormigueros is one of the smallest towns in Puerto Rico.
Hormigueros
Explore "The town of the miracle" on Puerto Rico's west coast.
Don't miss the opportunity to book a kayaking tour in La Parguera.
Lajas
A coastal destination for unforgettable aquatic adventure
Lares, one of the dozens of small towns in Puerto Rico with charming stories waiting to be discovered.
Lares
A mountain town rich in history – and coffee.
Enjoy gorgeous mountain views in Las Marías.
Las Marías
Natural beauty, coffee, and fun meet in the mountains.
Maricao is known for producing one of the best quality coffees in Puerto Rico.
Maricao
Panoramic views, history, and coffee — all in one place.
View of Moca's town square.
Moca
Visit Puerto Rico's capital of lace.
For a beautiful, easy coastal hike visit the Guajataca Tunnel park.
Quebradillas
Quebradillas is a playground for nature lovers, and home to famous pirate history.
Explore the magnificent San Sebastián Falls.
San Sebastián
Museums, history, and natural wonders in northwest Puerto Rico.
San Germán's entire Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
San Germán
Explore San Germán, Puerto Rico's second-oldest town.
A plate of delicious fritters.
Where to Eat in Cabo Rojo
Savor creative restaurants in town, or bar-hopping at el Poblado de Boquerón
A Weekend of Nautical Wonders in the West
Dive into Puerto Rico's marine fun!
Find nice accommodations steps away from el Poblado when you stay at Aquarius Vacation Club.
Where to Stay in Cabo Rojo
Go for the beaches, stay for the cool vibes
Enjoy some refreshing, cold coconut water while in Piñones.
7 Days of Puerto Rico for First Time Visitors
Pack your first visit to the Island with adventure and fun.
For breathtaking sunsets, head to Rincón on the west coast.
5 Days in the West Region of Puerto Rico
Experience big waves, beautiful beaches, and the best view of the Caribbean sunset.
Fresh beachside eats at Jack's Shack in Rincón.
Where to Eat in Rincón
Eclectic dining options abound in this fabulous western town
Swim up to the bar and relax at the Rincón of the Seas pool area.
Where to Stay in Rincón
Rincón’s beachfront accommodations won’t disappoint.
Peering over Guánica Dry Forest from historic Fuerte Caprón.
Visit Guánica's Dry Forest
Hiking to remote beaches, birdwatching, and bike rides.
Rincón's many beaches are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding.
Things to Do in Rincón
The town famous for its sunsets offers much more.
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