Añasco

A hidden gem on the west coast.

Being overshadowed by the surfer-hangout Rincón to the north and college town Mayagüez to the south is a blessing in disguise for the town of Añasco. Its pristine beaches are just as breathtaking as its neighbors but with fewer people around. There are also interesting places to explore that might even be new to locals.

If you're just passing through Añasco, there are a few quick-stop sites to visit like the Mirador, a three-story watchtower off PR-115 overlooking the Mona Passage, and the Salcedo iron bridge which crosses the Río Grande de Añasco.

Rincon Beach Resort

Whether you're coming for a romantic weekend or spending time with the family, Rincón Beach Resort is the perfect setting for a tropical getaway. This luxurious and spacious hotel offers guestrooms and villas with views of the ocean, garden, or right by the pool. Amenities include an enormous infinity pool and private access to Almirante beach, a sandy bathing beach shared by both Añasco and Rincón. The resort's two restaurants and bar serve Caribbean, Spanish, and Mediterranean cuisine, along with creative cocktails.

Añasco Beach and Parque Nacional Tres Hermanos

Along with Almirante, Añasco boasts two other beautiful beaches: Añasco beach and Tres Hermanos National Park. Añasco beach is secluded, picturesque, and serene. Think white sand, tranquil waves, and a rugged coastline as the backdrop. Just make sure to bring everything you need. Tres Hermanos is very similar, the only difference is that, since it is managed by the National Parks of Puerto Rico, this beach has parking, showers and bathrooms, gazebos, campgrounds, and an area for trailers.

Plaza de Recreo José A. Pesante

Añasco's town square is the second largest on the Island and worth the visit if you're interested in history. The plaza is headed by a lovely Catholic church built in 1919 after the original one was destroyed by an earthquake. Curiously, the square also features a statue portraying the moment when the Taíno Indians finally decided to test whether the Spanish invaders were actually gods. They drowned a soldier in a river and this event led to the Taíno revolt. It also gave Añasco the nickname the "Town Where Gods Die."

El Salto de la Encantada

This waterfall rushes over slick rocks and is hidden behind dense foliage. There are a boardwalk and picnic benches surrounding it, as well as steps leading down to a natural pool. The name means the "Enchanted Waterfall" and there is a legend surrounding the area. A young Taíno woman named Humata fell in love with a Spanish soldier but he didn't reciprocate her love. She died heartbrokenly and locals say at midnight you can see the young woman combing her hair by the side of the waterfall.