Puerto Rico Beaches: visit the Best Beaches in Puerto Rico

Home to approximately 700 miles of coastline lined with turquoise and emerald waters and snorkelling havens, Puerto Rico beaches are some of the most breathtaking beaches in the Caribbean. That is why, enjoying the beaches in Puerto Rico is one of the main things to do in Puerto Rico. There are over a hundred beaches in Puerto Rico, each one more beautiful than the other one.

Unlike many destinations in the Caribbean where visitors cannot access the beaches in resorts, most of Puerto Rico's beaches are open and free to be explored. The best part is that you don’t even need a visa to enter Puerto Rico if you are a resident of the USA. If you are from outside the US, you might need to get a visa for Puerto Rico.

If you are travelling to Puerto Rico, be prepared with some Puerto Rico travel tips and make some room for the best beaches in Puerto Rico. Here are some of the beaches in Puerto Rico we recommend.

Puerto Rico beaches

Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach is ranked as one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico, and in the entire world. The unbelievable white sand beach with crystal clear turquoise waters is often waveless, which makes it the best swimming beach on the island. Besides swimming, there are many diving sites on the beach for adventure lovers. If you are lucky, you might spot Godzilla fish and even some sea turtles on the shore.

Luquillo Beach

This crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by coconut palms backed by surreal turquoise waters. It is one of Puerto Rico best beaches to swim even if you are a beginner, as there are many lifeguards around to help you out.

If you don’t wish to swim, you can get on fly-boarding or even kayaking. You can also opt for a day trip to the El Yunque National Forest just beyond the beach. There is also a camping area if you want to stay for a night and many food vendors surrounding the beach.

Playa Crash Boat

Playa Crash Boat is another surreal beach that is ideal for surfers of all levels. It is one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico to surf. Nevertheless, you can expect some days where it’s windy and there is a strong swell and some days where the beach gets crowded with surfers coming from all over the country.

The Crash Boat Beach is also popular among swimmers, divers and people who snorkel. If you would rather just relax on the sand, there are showers, restrooms, and food vendors to facilitate you.

Playa Borinquen

If adventure is all you are after, you should not miss out on Playa Borinquen! This is one of Puerto Rico beaches that is not easy to access, but it is a must-visit for those who want a secluded place that is not crowded at all. Besides swimming in its deep blue waters, you can explore some really cool caves nearby.

One of them is the Survival Beach Cave. You can walk to the caves easily when the tides are low. Otherwise, you have to swim to access the caves. Avoid swimming during the winter months as undercurrents can be really dangerous.   

Tortuga Beach

Located on Culebrita Island, Tortuga Beach is a popular destination in Puerto Rico that is only accessible by boat or water taxi. This pocket paradise looks truly incredible with its crystal clear waters, white sand and lush greenery in the surrounding. Though the beach is secluded, there are many activities you can enjoy here, such as swimming with turtles and snorkelling.

There are also some trails leading you to the west beach and north tidal pools if you wish to dig in further from the Tortuga Beach.

Icacos Cay

Clear waters, isolation, snorkelling, and beautiful natural scenery are all you can expect at the Icacos Cay, one of the prettiest and best Puerto Rico beaches. Those staying in San Juan can book a day trip on a boat to the Cay and enjoy their time swimming with the dolphins, snorkelling and many more activities.

As there is no ferry service to the Cay, you have to book a boat trip to the island. The tours are pretty booked most of the time, so it is recommended to book in advance days ahead of your trip.

Sun Bay Beach

If you are visiting Vieques by any chance, you should check out its breathtaking beaches. While you cannot explore all of them, don’t miss out on Sun Bay Beach. This 2-mile long crescent-shaped beach features striking blue waters making a perfect postcard view.

There is a dedicated swimming area at the beach with lifeguards assuring safe swimming for everyone. As the beach is easier to get to, it can get really crowded, especially with families. But you can keep walking along the beach and find a quiet spot all to yourself.

Playa Sucia

Located on Cabo Rojo, Playa Sucia is the most breathtaking beach in the area. From the parking lot, it takes about 10 minutes to reach this picturesque beach with white sand and clear blue waters. The beach is perfect for swimming and it never gets too crowded like other beaches.

The best views of the beach and surrounding area can be witnessed from the lighthouse in the area at the time of sunset. As the beach is not developed, there are no facilities, restaurants or lifeguards around. So, swim at your own risk and bring some snacks with you if you feel like eating something.

Beaches in San Juan Puerto Rico

Ocean Park Beach

Ocean Park is a beautiful secluded beach located in the Condado District of Puerto Rico.

Think of it as a white-sand affair backed by deep blue waters, making a picture-perfect view. As the beach has no bathrooms, showers or changing rooms, it draws fewer tourists as compared to other beaches. Therefore, it is one of the beaches in Puerto Rico to visit, if you want a quite place to relax.

Condado Beach

You might have seen a similar sight in Miami, but Condado Beach is truly spectacular in all aspects. The beach attracts everyone from families to couples and also celebrities.

Due to the proximity to San Juan, Condado Beach is mostly crowded with visitors. The current here is strong, but you can still swim if you are experienced. It is recommended not to go too far.

If you don’t want to swim, you can rent a sun-lounger and simply relax there and enjoy the breathtaking site around you.

Isla Verde Beach 

Isla Verde Beach is one of the most popular and best beaches in Puerto Rico. It is located in the Isla Verde neighborhood, just east of Old San Juan and the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport.

It is known for its golden sands and clear gentle turquoise waters. It is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, relaxing by the water, jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Escambrón Beach

Escambrón beach it is situated in the historic district of Old San Juan. It is an ideal beach for families and those who want to enjoy the ocean safely. One of its highlights is the Coral Reefs and the snorkeling opportunities it offers to its visitors. 

The beach is adjacent to Escambrón Park, a green space with picnic areas, walking paths, and lush vegetation.