Best Beaches in Puerto Rico: Top 7 Destinations for Sun, Sand and Surf

Puerto Rico makes it a paradise for beach lovers. With its stunning and Best Beaches in Puerto Rico you can find a swim from a paradise island to a lively shore where adventure and water sports take place. The beaches of the island are its crown jewels and they bring in travelers from all over the world. Best Beaches in Puerto Rico has it all including perfect waves, clear waters, and serene landscapes whether you are looking for it or not.

But which are the best beaches in Puerto Rico? That’s what we’re here to figure out in this extensive guide, so here’s the top 7 best beaches in Puerto Rico, with the best sandwiched further down towards the bottom of the list. These beaches are the ones you’re going to get lost on, and whether you’re a first time visitor or you’re coming back for more, you won’t be disappointed.

7. Culebra Island – Playa Flamencoc

Playa Flamenco is widely recognized by those who know as one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico … and of the world. Playa Flamenco, located on the little island of Culebra—part of Puerto Rico’s Spanish Virgin Islands—became a well known name for its soft white sand, warm turquoise waters, and tranquil sanctuary.

Why Visit Playa Flamenco:

• Unparalleled Beauty: Flamenco often appears on global rankings for its beauty. The beach is crescent shaped with flat calm shallow water and the surrounding lush hills is serene.
• Pristine Waters: Snorkeling is excellent because the water is crystal clear showcasing colorful coral reefs with a wide expanse of marine life. And if you’re into scuba diving, you will know to come here for some great underwater scenery.
• Seclusion and Serenity: Playa Flamenco is located on a beautiful beach in far less touristic Culebra. There’s a ferry and a private boat that can take you to the island from Fajardo.
• Great for Families: Because the water is shallow and there is little if any wave action, it’s great for families with kids. It’s great for swimming and lets you zone out while catching little eyes.

Things to Do at Playa Flamenco:

• The crystal clear waters snorkeling and diving.
• Take a stay overnight at the nearby Flamenco Beach Campground, just below the stars.
• Go kayak or paddle board the calm waters.

6. Playa Buyé – Cabo Rojo

Playa Buyé is a hidden gem that you might find a perfect beach escape, located on the southwestern coast of Puerto Rico in Cabo Rojo. Located about 45 minutes away from the airport is Playa Buyé, usually being known for its calm waters, peaceful atmosphere, for them, being one of the most beautiful and best beaches in Puerto Rico.

Why Visit Playa Buyé:

• A Local Favorite: Playa Buyé is not as commercial as other beaches in Puerto Rico. Locals love the sheltered cove for being a quiet, laid back place that’s devoid of tourist crowds.
• Ideal for Swimming: The Playa Buyé is small, sheltered by mangrove forest and its gentle, shallow waters provide perfect swimming and wading. “For kayaking and paddleboarding, it’s really, really great.”
• Picturesque Views: Located within lush green hills, Playa Buyé is located in a great place to spend a day of relaxation surrounded by amazing views.
• Family-Friendly: Calm waters makes it a family friendly beach, and there are picnic areas near by should you choose to stay a bit longer on the beach.

Things to Do at Playa Buyé:

• Have a nice day of swimming or getting some sun.
• Get a kayak or stand up board and explore the bay.
• The Cabo Rojo Lighthouse is a visit to make in order to get such views of the coastline.

5. Playa Dorado – Dorado

Playa Dorado in Dorado is a Best Beaches in Puerto Rico that if you’re looking for a beach which combines luxury with natural beauty is the place to be. Just 30 minutes west of San Juan, the beach of Playa Dorado is known for its fine golden sand, calm waters and upscale resorts along the coastline.

Why Visit Playa Dorado:

• Luxury Beach Resort: Other picturesque resorts are home to several luxurious resorts and some of them include an exclusive beachfront access! If you want a beach with all inclusive stays and a view, this beach is for you.
• Ideal for Water Sports: The area is a great place for windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing with the gentle waves perfect for swimming. And if you like messing about, you’ll have no trouble finding ways to spike your adrenaline.
• Relaxing and Easy Access: Just a short drive from San Juan in the capital, Playa Dorado is easily reachable, a good option if you are staying down there. You don’t have to worry about logistics with all the amenities on hand.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Playa Dorado is full of many beachfront bars and restaurants to choose from making it a lively spot to hang out and people watch.

Things to Do at Playa Dorado:

• Water activities like jet skiing, parasailing and windsurfing are all possible.
• You can enjoy a sunset cocktail at any one of the many of the beach bars.
• Get you relax at one of the luxurious resorts while enjoy the all inclusive amenities.

4. Isla Verde Beach – San Juan

Isla Verde Beach is perfect for those that prefer the combination of urban excitement and natural beauty. Just a few minutes from Old San Juan, Isla Verde has a ton of energy while still being a truly beautiful beach considered as one of the Best Beaches in Puerto Rico.

Why Visit Isla Verde Beach:

• Bustling Beachfront: Famously boisterous atmosphere of Isla Verde. As soon as you set your foot on sand, you will find yourself in a gorgeous biological resorts, beach clubs, and restaurants. If you’re someone who likes a more social, active type of beach scene, then it’s an excellent choice.
• Perfect for Water Sports: Water sports are hot in Isla Verde. It’s possible to jet ski, parasail, or try your hand at windsurfing. This beach is great if you want action with sunbathing.
• Great for Nightlife: Nearby, Isla Verde is also known for its nightlife with lots of bars, clubs, and live music venues, and is the area closest to the heart of things.
• Convenient Location: Being so close to San Juan, you don’t have to travel far to get to the beach. Isla Verde has a lot to offer whether you’re in San Juan staying or are visiting for the day.

Things to Do at Isla Verde Beach:

• Go on a jet ski tour down the coast.
• Take a stroll nearby Condado to shop, eat and party.
• Sunset wine bar at the beach.

3. Playa de Luquillo – Luquillo

Playa de Luquillo is one of most famous and Best Beaches in Puerto Rico, featuring pristine natural beauty, calm waters, and a clutch of delicious restaurants. This beach, which lies 30 minutes east of San Juan and is located in Luquillo, is a local choice and great for the families, food lovers and nature lover.

Why Visit Playa de Luquillo:

• Food Kiosks: There are over 60 food kiosks at Playa de Luquillo and the food is some of the best local cuisine. Puerto Rican dishes as mofongo and alcapurrias to fresh seafood these kiosks are varied mouthwatering.
• Perfect for Families: As can be seen, it’s one of the better beaches for families in Puerto Rico due to the calm waters of the beach. Young children are safe in the shallow waves, there are lots of picnic tables and gadgets to make your day easier.
• Scenic Views: Dotted with a series of abandoned factories and placed against the backdrop of the El Yunque National Forest, with its lush greens meeting the ocean, Playa de Luquillo provides breathtaking views.
• Accessible and Well-Equipped: Restaurants are available nearby, and there are showers, restrooms and shaded areas, this beach is well maintained, and perfect for a comfortable and relaxed day.

Things to Do at Playa de Luquillo:

• Take advantage of the high quality food kiosks, which are famous in the country.
• Or quietly spend a relaxing walk on the beach.
• Visit the El Yunque National Forest for hiking and waterfall tours near your home.

2. El Yunque National Forest – Playa de las Cataratas

Playa de las Cataratas is tucked away in the El Yunque National Forest heart and is made up of one of a kind beach pairing beautiful waterfalls with a serene ocean. Like most of Best Beaches in Puerto Rico, it is not as well known, but not too bad, and it is one of the places hidden Puerto Rico.

Why Visit Playa de las Cataratas:

• Waterfall and Beach Combo: The waterfall has earned Playa de las Cataratas what makes it so special by being so close to it, allowing a stark contrast to be made between the roaring fresh water and the tranquil ocean. You can get out in the ocean and then sit underneath the waterfall to cool off.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: This is an excellent beach for nature lovers because it’s situated in the middle of El Yunque, Puerto Rico’s only tropical rainforest. It is farther away from the outside world, which is good because the forest that surrounds the beach brings just that, an element of tranquility and solitude.
• Hiking: To get to this very beach you just have to do a short hike in the lush rainforest, turning it into one of the best natural and adventurous place you can be.

Things to Do at Playa de las Cataratas:

• Go under the waterfall or in the warm ocean water.
• Here, you can hike in the El Yunque National Forest before hitting the beach and finding the secret spots along the way.
• Take pictures of the glorious rain forest and beautiful coastline.

1. Playa Balneario – Fajardo

Playa Balneario Fajardo in Puerto Rico is our number one pick for the best beaches in Puerto Rico: a tropical paradise. Playa Balneario is a beautiful, clear water, array of activities, Best Beaches in Puerto Rico, known for stunning beauty destination for all types of beachgoers.

Why Visit Playa Balneario:

• Breathtaking Views: Playa Balneario is wide, palm lined beach with calm waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming or enjoying the beautiful scenery.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Marine life is rampant in the waters surrounding the beach, which is offering an excellent venue for snorkeling and scuba diving alike.
• Family-Friendly: Playa Balneario is a safe, comfortable place for families to spend the day with clean facilites and picnic areas and lifeguards on duty.
• Accessible from San Juan: It’s just a short drive from San Juan, and makes for a great day trip.

Things to Do at Playa Balneario:

• Clear waters to Snorkel, marine life to discover.
• Enjoy a boat tour or boat rental to find the Icacos Island nearby.
• Like it so much that you enjoy a walk or picnic on the beach.

Conclusion: It’s Your Puerto Rican Beach Adventure Awaits.

Best Beaches in Puerto Rico move from the quiet seclusion of Playa Flamenco to the lively atmosphere of Isla Verde. Best Beaches in Puerto Rico have got something for everyone, – whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker or someone who just needs to relax on the sand.

Sunscreen, sunglasses, out you go to the 7 best beaches in Puerto Rico. Your beach adventure awaits! Follow us, for more similar content.

FAQs

1. Can I rent beach equipment?

Many areas with Best Beaches in Puerto Rico (especially touristy ones), offer rentals of kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear.

2. When is the perfect time for visiting the best beaches in Puerto Rico?

With temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees, and plenty of sunshine, it’s a good bet for visiting from December to April — the dry season — when the period is warm and ideal for beach activities.

3. How do I get to the best beaches in Puerto Rico?

Car access to most beaches is available. For some, such as Playa Flamenco, you need to take a ferry, while others like Playa Dorado are close to resorts easy to get to.

4. Are Puerto Rico’s beaches safe?

Yes, almost all of the Best Beaches in Puerto Rico are safe. Whenever you go swimming, always stay in designated areas, swim in designated areas, listen to your local guidelines and be aware of currents.

5. Am I paying to visit Best Beaches in Puerto Rico?

Free most beaches, except in Playa Dorado some beaches charge to park or for beach services.