Best Beaches in Puerto Rico

Sun, sand, and waves… This is what Puerto Rico is all about...

There are over 270 miles of coastline in Puerto Rico. That translates into nearly 300 beaches to choose from! Sandy trails lead to stunning natural pools of crystalline waters that will leave you in awe, regardless of what you decide to do during your visit.

The Island's diverse geography presents locations that attract many water sports enthusiasts such as surfers, bodysurfers, paddleboarders, snorkelers, divers, etc. Some beaches also provide a secluded cove setting that anyone who wants to get away from crowds would appreciate. However, if you are 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 spot to your liking.

Las Mejores 5 Playas de Puerto Rico

Estan son las mejores 5 playas de Puerto Rico.

Flamenco Beach - Culebra

Flamenco Beach is one of the most popular destinations on Culebra Island, perfect for a day trip from the main island. Often ranked as one of the best beaches in the entire world, Culebra Island’s Flamenco Beach is a striking stretch of white sand beach that is practically waveless, making it the best beach for swimming in Puerto Rico. Playa Flamenco is famously known for its shallow and crystal clear turquoise waters, unbelievably white sand, a wealth of swimming areas, and incredible diving sites.

This is the perfect beach to relax on the sand, enjoy a leisurely swim, or snorkel. You can sometimes spot turtles as you swim on snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The most iconic feature of the beach are the two Sherman tanks abandoned on what was previously a testing ground for the Navy. They’ve been there since 1975 and make for great photos. There are also great places to hike to nearby. You can enjoy a 30-minute walk to Resaca Beach, which is much more secluded as it can only be reached on foot.

La Playuela Beach - Cabo Rojo

La Playuela is commonly known as Playa Sucia and it is one of the most popular beaches in Cabo Rojo. With breathtaking views and plenty of wilderness to explore, this beach is part of the town’s nature reserve.

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

Crash Boat Beach - Aguadilla

Up on the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico, near the beachside town of Aguadilla, is another precious paradise worth praise. This is the most popular beach in Aguadilla. Today, Crash Boat is a beach offering exciting beach experiences, including swimming, parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, sunbathing, paddle boarding, and so much more.

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.

Cayo Icacos Island - Fajardo

This little island is located off the coast of Fajardo, and you can reach it by boat from Las Croabas or on a private charter. When you picture a deserted island, you probably imagine something like this white-sand beach, with crystal-clear water (the clearest on the east coast of Puerto Rico), an abandoned pier, and a wonderful variety of wildlife.

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 are 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 have a great day of swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding under the sun.

Domes Beach - 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 an excellent spot for whale watching during the winter. This beach is one of the best surfing beaches in the island of Puerto Rico. 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.

In the distance you can see Desecheo Island, and behind the beach is the blue Nuclear Reactor, which is becoming a science center.

Jobos Beach - 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.

The beach is excellent for surfing, sunbathing, snorkeling, taking a dip, walking or just resting enjoying its beautiful scenery. Annually this beach it’s very visited by surfers from around the world to participate in tournaments or simply take their vacations and take advantage of the waves. In the case of swimmers the beach can be a bit dangerous due to its strong currents, but there is a space inside the beach that is flat, perfect for a good dip. There is a small inlet area to the east side that is good for diving.

Cayo Aurora (Gilligan’s Island) - Guánica

Although it is not officially a beach, this cay has the most transparent water in Puerto Rico. Nicknamed after the popular TV show, it is part of the Guánica Biosphere Reserve. The small island is fenced in by a healthy mangrove system that creates intimate spots throughout the cay. You can only get there by renting a kayak or a private boat!

The beach is a perfect crystalline natural pool for a full day of swimming, snorkeling, kayaking in connection with nature. The beach it’s made up of a series of mangroves and small beaches with fish of different species.

La Monserrate Beach (Luquillo Beach) - Luquillo

Located in Luquillo on the northeast of Puerto Rico, La Monserrate is loved by locals and tourists alike. With clear waters, large palm trees, and plenty of convenient facilities, this is a popular spot for families or large groups looking for a fun day on the beach. This is a Blue Flag Beach, meaning it’s kept clean, safe, and eco-friendly.

The calm waters and low tides make it the perfect beach to swim and play in the sand with kids. There are designated picnic areas and camping grounds you can enjoy. There is a wide variety of food kiosks where you can enjoy fresh seafood, fried snacks, and topical cocktails. The beach is just a 15-minute drive from El Yunque National Forest, so it’s perfect to hit up after your rainforest adventures to relax and unwind.

The beach at the Sun Capital of Puerto Rico consistently ranks among the prettiest beaches in the country of Puerto Rico. The municipality of Luquillo makes a lovely seaside getaway, owing to a whopping 12 miles of sun-kissed coastline, some touting golden sand, others stark white. Luquillo rightfully deserves the nickname assigned to it, as surfers, snorkelers, beachcombers, sunbathers, and all the other types of sun worshippers consider it a haven.

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!

Combate Beach has two very different sides: the north side of the beach is charming, with colorful and simple houses along the coast, fishing boats, docks and beach facilities. The south side of the Combate beach is the most beautiful part, with many dream places, more isolated and clear waters.

This pleasant beach has beautiful corals where you can snorkel, Jet Ski and dive among other water sports. You can also kayak, sunbathe, swim, play on the shore or just spend a pleasant family day. The beach is regularly visited by tourists and local people.

Sun Bay Beach - Vieques

Sun Bay’s coast boasts a mile of idyllic sand and shore and offers picnic areas, campgrounds, barbecue grills, food kiosks, lifeguards, and the necessary facilities. That means you’re assured an endlessly comfortable time amidst the island’s lush tropical landscape. 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 admire the dreamy surroundings. This beach has been awarded the Blue Flag recognition many times.

The beach is administered by the National Parks Company of Puerto Rico and is open from Wednesday to Sunday and holidays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., although access to the beach is open 24 hours a day.

Tortuga Beach - Culebrita

Tortuga Beach or “Turtle Beach” is located on the small island of Culebrita, off the east coast of Culebra. 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. You should take up a charter and don’t miss the wonders of this tropical paradise.

Tortuga Beach is named after the herds of hawksbill and leatherback turtles that visit the small beach to nest or feed. Because of the island’s pristine condition and seclusion, the sand is as soft and fine as powder and the waters calm and transparent. Snorkeling and swimming with turtles at Tortuga Beach are totally welcome! More turtles can be found on the east and south beaches too, but the adventure doesn’t end there. There are trails to the west beach, north tidal pools, and old lighthouse to the south as well!

Isla Verde Beach- Carolina

Isla Verde is one of the most popular San Juan beaches due to its proximity to some of the best hotels and resorts in the city. It’s located on the north coast of Puerto Rico in the municipality of Carolina, just minutes away from the San Juan Airport. For travelers looking for the all-inclusive resort experience, this is the perfect beach, located near restaurants, bars, casinos, and nightclubs.

This beautiful Caribbean beach features all the water sports you could want, from surfing and paddle boarding to banana boats and parasailing. Isla Verde is also close to cultural and historic attractions. It’s just a 15-minute drive away from Old San Juan, so you can relax on the sand in the morning and enjoy a history tour in the afternoon. It’s also a great place for foodies, with countless places to enjoy seafood and local cuisine.

Isla Verde Beach is divided into three, each spanning three miles and each consistently considered among Puerto Rico’s top beaches. Pine Grove is for surfers, Alambique is for backpackers longing for relaxation, and Balneario de Carolina for families with cars and children.

El Escambrón Beach - San Juan

The Escambrón Beach, located in the metropolitan area, very close to the historic city of Old San Juan, is one of the oldest in America, and is the most frequented tourist area on the Island of Puerto Rico. This beach has received the Blue Flag classification for meeting all the requirements and a selective ecolabel awarded to beaches that meet excellent water quality, sanitary services and lifeguards.

This is the perfect spot to witness the contrast between 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.

The beach also has a bridge that connects the beach with the Luis Muñoz Rivera Park. Next to the beach is “Parque del Tercer Milenio” which has a walking and running track and a baseball park.

Pelícano Beach - Ponce

Pelícano Beach is located on the Caja de Muertos Island and is a small uninhabited island 8 km from the south coast of Puerto Rico, in front of the Ponce Playa neighborhood of the municipality of Ponce. With crystalline waters and a coastline of white sand this beach is of great attraction for all its visitors and owners of private boats that arrive at the place, parking on its coast.

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.

The beach is perfect for swimming. The water is amazing, not too salty, it almost feels like fresh water on the skin. The colors are one of the most beautiful in all of Puerto Rico, from the crystal clear to the aquamarine and the deepest cerulean blue. The bottom is perfectly sandy, feels firm, soft and clean. The waves are super soft, making it a great beach for children.

Montones Beach- Isabela

Montones Beach in Isabela is characterized by its family atmosphere. Its coast is more than a mile long. The beach is a natural pool which is the largest in the area and one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico. The beach has an ideal pose for children and an area overlooking the open sea recommended for adults. You must be careful because there are sea currents.

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 the scenery's calmness. A natural wall prevents the strong surf from rushing in. The crowd you'll find there is mostly local.

Boquerón Beach - Cabo Rojo

Boqueron is another Cabo Rojo attraction. Balneario de Boqueron also known as Boqueron Beach & Playa Boqueron, is Cabo Rojo’s most popular and beloved beach for locals and Puerto Ricans. Its beach spans three miles of golden sand lined with almond trees and coconut palms. Boqueron’s beach suits families with little swimmers due to its clean, calm, and shallow water and family-friendly weekend events or shows.

This beautiful beach is a paradise for divers and wildlife lovers. You can spot marine life as well as native birds protected by the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge. There are public facilities nearby, so you can enjoy a snack, sit in a gazebo, or try fresh oysters from a kiosk!

This mile-long bay is gorgeous from sunrise to sunset every day of the year. Boqueron Beach encapsulates the definition of fun summer days with family and friends in Puerto Rico. On this beach, everything is simple, laid back, fun, and rich with the pleasures of island life.

Boqueron Beach is another Blue Flags certified beach, meaning it passed strict international standards. Many consider this the safest beach for kids in Puerto Rico. By the way, the seafood sold just outside the entrance is a definite must-try!

Ocean Park Beach - San Juan

Ocean Park es una de la mejores playas de Puerto Rico a cinco minutos del aeropuerto y de la capital.

Ocean Park Beach also known as “Punta Las Marias Beach” is a beautiful and very busy beach considered to be one of the most popular in Puerto Rico in the metropolitan area. The beach stretches across the Condado area in San Juan.

Ocean Park Beach is a favorite spot for locals in San Juan and gaining popularity among tourists. The young locals like to refer to it as “Ocean”. The wide mile-long beach is framed by a few shaded spots with palm trees along the way, residential condominiums, private residences, vacation rentals, restaurants, and a few boutique hotels, small inns, and guesthouses.

Ocean Park has a very casual, low-key vibe. Even during the high tourist season, you will find the beach to be pretty relaxed and uncrowded. Ocean Park Beach is on the Atlantic Ocean side featuring pretty blues from deep navy blues to aquamarine. The sand is golden, soft, and light.

If you come here early during the weekends, you’ll encounter vendors selling local-recommended hot crab empanadas, piraguas, and tropical ice cream!

Caracas Beach (Red Beach) - Vieques

Playa Caracas is located in the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, on the south side of Vieques, a smaller island off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico. It was previously known as Red Beach. This beach was occupied by the US Navy until 2003, preserving its stunning white-sand cove and crystal-clear water.

This is a family-friendly beach and a local favorite for its turquoise waters and soft coral sand. The gentle waves are perfect for boogie boarding, and the vast expanse of sand is great for sunbathing, having a picnic, or playing volleyball. The beach has cozy gazebos (but you have to get there early to claim one), but otherwise has no facilities, so be sure to bring trash bags and any other supplies you might need. When the water is calm, it’s a wonderful place to snorkel. The stunning scenery surrounded by lush tropical plants and dramatic cliffs also lends itself to amazing photos.

The beach is easily accessible, as it is the first accessible beach within the National Wildlife Refuge on the south side of Vieques along the Caribbean Sea.

Punta Soldado Beach - Culebra

Located on Culebra Island, Playa Punta Soldado is a great peaceful alternative if you think Flamenco Beach is a little too crowded. This pebbly beach is calm and secluded, with beautiful crystal-clear water and a rocky shore. If you’re visiting Culebra by boat or plane, you can head to this spot for a relaxing day on the beach. You can drive straight to the beach, so there’s no need to hike.

The calm waters of Punta Soldado are perfect for snorkeling and beginner scuba diving. The water is clear and full of colorful marine life. There are no facilities on this beach, so if you’re planning to spend a good amount of time here, make sure you bring water, food, and gear for any water activities you’re planning to enjoy. It’s a good idea to bring water shoes as you’ll have to walk over pebbles to get into the water. This beach has beautiful coral reefs, so please be careful and be sure not to touch or step on them. This is also an excellent area for beachcombing.

Piñones Beach - San Juan

Just 2 miles from San Juan, this quiet little beach is both conveniently located and peaceful. It’s located along Route 187 in Piñones on the northern coast of the island. Take a day trip just outside the city and enjoy a wonderful day in the sun!

If you’re looking for some action, you can rent a kayak and paddle around the lagoon and mangroves. There is a ton of wildlife to encounter as you enjoy the calm waters, which are also perfect for a swim. The nearby boardwalk is also a nice place for a walk or bike ride. But the best thing about Piñones is the food. Enjoy some bacalaítos, empanadillas, tostones, and other delicious fried snacks from local vendors.

Condado Beach - San Juan

Condado Beach is located in San Juan, and you can access it through Ventana al Mar Park. Since it’s in the city, you can drive there and park on the street or a garage. This beach is often compared to Miami Beach due to its diverse crowd, including celebrities!

This is the perfect beach for resort-lovers, honeymooners, and families. It has all the facilities and accommodations you need for a relaxing, luxury beach day. With umbrellas and loungers available for rental (unless you’re staying at a resort, in which case they’re free), you can sit back and relax and order a drink from the waiters on site. Condado Beach has strong currents, so it’s not a great swimming spot for children or inexperienced swimmers. You can enjoy all sorts of water sports, taking advantage of the wind and current.

If you have children, be aware that the waters are not the best for swimming. Nearby, you can enjoy the Playita del Condado, a small beach with calmer waters, perfect for families with children and with lifeguards.