Experience the best beaches in Puerto Rico with clear waters, white sands, and diverse activities.
Going to Puerto Rico and need the best beach recommendations? I got you!
After visiting Puerto Rico and soaking in the island’s amazing beaches, I knew I had to share my faves with you.
From the pristine Caribbean paradise to rugged hidden gems, Puerto Rico has some of the most best beaches I’ve ever seen! (And I’ve seen a lot…)
Whatever you’re looking for, this list of the 10 best beaches in Puerto Rico has something for you. Trust me, they’re all worth a visit and I can’t wait to tell you about them!
⚠️ First time going to Puerto Rico? ⚠️
Read over my ultimate itinerary for your first time to the island
and check out 14 Puerto Rico excursions you can’t miss!
Key Takeaways
- The best beaches in Puerto Rico are scattered all over the island, plus on the neighboring islands of Vieques and Culebra.
- There are beaches for relaxation, families, adventure, and action.
- The best time to visit Puerto Rico beaches is between December and April.
Table of Contents
Map of Best Beaches in Puerto Rico
1. Flamenco Beach, Culebra
Best for: Families and Relaxation Seekers
Unique Features
Flamenco Beach is on the small, undeveloped island of Culebra. Even though Culebra has world class beaches, it still has an aura of seclusion. Some parts truly look untouched.
One of the most unique features is the abandoned U.S. military tank near the beach. It was left from when the area was used for military exercises and has become an iconic landmark.
Need ideas for what to do while you’re there? Check out these fun tours near Flamenco Beach!
2. Luquillo Beach, Luquillo
Best for: Families and Food Enthusiasts
Luquillo Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the whole island. It’s beautiful, has amazing views, is super close to El Yunque Rainforest, and has amenities galore. I spent hours there when I went!
One of the reasons it stands out is because of the calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or just relaxing. It also goes on for miles so you’ll easily find a spot for yourself.
Within walking distance of the beach are the Luquillo food kiosks – a row of over 60 food stands offering any type of local delicacy you can imagine.
Amenities
In addition to the famous food kiosks within walking distance, Luquillo Beach offers many amenities:
- restrooms and showers
- lifeguards
- chair/umbrella rentals
- parking
- picnic area
- shops
- water sport rentals
Looking for things to do while you’re there? Check out these fun tours near Luquillo Beach here!
3. Crash Boat Beach, Aguadilla
Best for: Adventure Seekers and Social Travelers
On the northwest coast of Puerto Rico in Aguadilla, Crash Boat Beach is one of the most loved beaches on the island – for both locals and tourists. It’s known for its fun atmosphere, vibrant surroundings, and crystal clear waters. It’s even been called the island’s party beach.
The turquoise waters are gentle so swimming and snorkeling are popular, but jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding are all available too. There’s an iconic pier which goes out into the ocean that’s a great spot for jumping into the water.
While Crash Boat seems like a bit of an escape from the more crowded east coast beaches, there are still plenty of amenities. There are restrooms, showers, food kiosks, picnic areas along with that laid-back vibe to enjoy it all in.
Activities
Crash Beach Boat is full of activities – can’t be called the party beach without them!
- snorkeling
- scuba diving
- swimming
- surfing
- kayaking
- watching killer sunsets
- food trucks
- restaurants
- have a picnic
4. Playa Sucia (La Playuela), Cabo Rojo
Best for: Nature Lovers and Those Seeking Solitude
Playa Sucia, on the southern tip of Puerto Rico in Cabo Rojo, is an unbelievably beautiful hidden gem. It’s known for it’s rugged beauty and secluded vibe and is considered by locals to be one of the island’s best kept secrets.
The beach has soft, golden sand, clear waters, and it’s framed by towering cliffs and lush greenery. The waters are calm and shallow so swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging in the water are a big draw.
Playa Sucia is tucked away so you’ll need to plan in some time to get there, but it’s worth the effort. You’ll get a truly peaceful raw beach experience – no developments or big tourist groups – just untouched nature.
Nearby Attractions
- The Cabo Rojo Lighthouse sits on the cliffs overlooking the beach. It’s a short hike over and you’ll get amazing panoramic views of the beach.
- Cueva Jaguey Beach is a nearby beach with a cave
- The Pink Salt Flats are natural lagoons that mine salt and fluctuate in color – sometimes to bright pink
- The Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, a few miles away from the beach, is a habitat for many native bird species
5. Playa Buye, Cabo Rojo
Best for: Families and a Laid-Back Experience
Playa Buye, on the west side of Puerto Rico in Cabo Rojo, is the quintessential Caribbean beach experience. White sand, warm blue waters, and a tree lined shore. It’s the perfect spot to lay down, close your eyes, and enjoy the sounds of the ocean.
When you need a break from relaxing on the beach, there are some food options nearby along with a gift shop. If you want to take it a step further, there are options to rent boats, kayaks, or paddleboards.
If you want the quiet vibes, come during the week. The weekends bring in the locals and more tourists so it can get crowded.
Amenities
- chair and umbrella rentals
- food nearby
- gift shop
- water sport rentals
- parking
- restrooms
6. Jobos Beach, Isabela
Best for: Surfers and Young Travelers
Surf’s up, dude! Get your surf board and run over to Jobos Beach on the northwest coast for some of the best surf conditions on the island. If you’re not into surfing, the fun and friendly atmosphere, beachside cafes and restaurants, and clear waters will still make it an amazing beach day.
While most of the beach is a surfer’s paradise, the right portion of the beach is a shallow area protected by rock formations, perfect for families or anyone looking for a relaxing swim or float. The swaying palm trees are a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the beauty and relaxed vibes.
Amenities
- chair and umbrella rentals
- beachside food options
- surfing classes
- rental shops
- parking
- shady trees
7. Domes Beach, Rincon
Best for: Surfers and Sunset Lovers
Domes Beach on Puerto Rico’s west coast is another iconic surf spot. The waves are so good that surfing competitions are regularly held there! And even if you’re not into surfing, the golden sands and laid-back surfer atmosphere create the perfect place to relax.
Beyond the waves, the beach is just beautiful. It’s framed by lush green hills and rocky outcrops, adding a rugged beauty. Nearby you can spot a historic lighthouse that adds to the charm – it’s within walking distance. If you really want some great views, there’s a scenic overlook next to a local bar where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while watching surfers catch waves.
Unique Features
- The beach’s name comes from the dome-shaped structure of a decommissioned nuclear power plant nearby.
- From January to March, whales can be seen migrating past Domes Beach.
8. Playa Caracas (Red Beach), Vieques
Best for: Couples and Those Seeking Tranquility
Playa Caracas on the island of Vieques is a hidden gem, known for its stunning beauty. It’s so beautiful that part of the Victoria’s Secret Swim Special was filmed there!
Located in the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, it has soft, golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters—basically, the perfect spot to escape everything. And since it’s part of the Wildlife Refuge, the beach is protected and stays untouched, keeping its natural charm intact.
Whether you want to swim, float on the calm waters, boogie board, just lounge on the beach, or take the most postcard worthy pictures, Playa Caracas is the spot to do it.
Amenities
Very limited. There are gazebos for picnics and parking. There are restrooms at the entrace of the refuge.
Need ideas for things to do while you’re there? Check out these fun tours on Vieques here!
9. Boqueron Beach, Cabo Rojo
Best for: Families and Cultural Enthusiasts
10. El Escambron Beach, San Juan
Best for: Families and Beach Lovers
El Escambron Beach is the most popular beach in San Juan, for both tourists and locals. First of all, it’s gorgeous. It has beautiful, clear waters, the sand is soft, plus there are mountain views and a rocky island to stare out at. There are also plenty of palm trees for shade, and even a couple of spots you can hang a hammock to really relax.
Plus, not only is it huge, but it offers two different experiences on each side. On one side there’s a protected cove so the waves are calm and it’s the spot for swimming and lounging around. On the other side, the area is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
This beach is the crowd pleaser. It’s walking distance from San Juan. Whatever you want to do on your beach day, you’ll be able to do it here. And, it has plenty of amenities.
If you want to learn more about the best beaches in San Juan, check out this list of the 10 best!
Amenities
- restrooms
- chair and umbrella rentals
- water sport rentals
- outdoor rinsing showers
- lifeguards
- handicap ramp with beach access
- picnic tables
- numerous restaurants and cafes nearby
Tips for Visiting Puerto Rico's Beaches
Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico Beaches
December to April is peak season for visiting Puerto Rico beaches. It’s the dry season, the days are warm and sunny, and the temps are between 70 – 85 degrees.
It’s the best time to hit the beach because the weather will be perfect and the water is generally calm. However, it’s high season so the beaches will be more crowded, especially around San Juan, Vieques, and Culebra.
May to November is off-peak season. It’s Puerto Rico’s rainy season with higher chance of afternoon showers, plus the temperatures can hit 90. Additionally, hurricane season is from June to November.
Although there’s a higher chance of rain, the beaches aren’t crowded and you’ll probably find a great deal on a hotel and flight.
Early May or late November is the sweet spot for good weather without the crowds.
Cultural Etiquette
When visiting Puerto Rico’s beaches, be sure to be aware of local etiquette.
- Clean up after yourself and respect your surroundings
- Cover up when leaving the beach
- Keep noise levels at a reasonable volume
- Respect the locals and tip when you can
- Stay out of the way of beach goers doing water sports
- Stay safe and follow rules, especially from a lifeguard
Safety Considerations
- Pay attention to beach flags and lifeguards
- Avoid swimming if there’s a red or purple flag
- Be cautious of strong current and waves
- Protect yourself from the sun
- Be aware of marine life
- Avoid swimming far out alone
- Watch out for unstable ground or rocks
- Protect your belongings
- Respect the beach rules
Discover Your Perfect Puerto Rican Beach Escape
No matter which beach you choose, you’ll be sure to have a blast. Puerto Rico is home to some of the most breathtaking and diverse beaches in the Caribbean.
Whether you want the clear waters of Flamenco Beach, the lively atmosphere of Crash Boat Beach, or the hidden gems of Playa Sucia, there’s a beach for every type of beach goer.
No matter where you choose, you’re sure to enjoy stunning views and fun vibes.
