Curator’s statement
Puerto Rico’s west coast is special to me because I lived there for 23 years and truly connected with its laid-back rhythm and natural beauty. I love the calm beaches of Cabo Rojo and La Parguera, perfect for relaxing, while the more active shores of Rincón, Isabela, and Aguadilla offer some of the best surfing on the island. Compared to the bustle of San Juan, the west feels quieter and more peaceful, yet it still has amazing seafood and vibrant local culture. It’s a place where you can slow down, enjoy the ocean, and feel at home.
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Things to do in Puerto Rico
Cabo Rojo Lighthous: Perched on dramatic limestone cliffs, the lighthouse stands as a guardian over Puerto Rico’s stunning southwestern coast.
Cabo Rojo Lighthouse & Salt Flats
Perched on dramatic limestone cliffs, the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Nearby, the striking pink salt flats are both scenic and historically significant, providing a glimpse into Puerto Rico’s salt-harvesting past.
Playa El Combate
A favorite among locals, Playa El Combate features calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming and sunsets that light up the horizon. It’s a great spot for relaxing and enjoying fresh seafood nearby.
Playa Buye
Known for its soft sand and crystal-clear waters, Playa Buye is a laid-back beach perfect for families and casual snorkeling. Its tranquil setting makes it a hidden gem in western Puerto Rico.
Crash Boat Beach
One of Aguadilla’s most popular beaches, Crash Boat features colorful fishing boats, clear waters, and a pier perfect for diving or fishing. It’s a lively spot with both action and natural beauty.
Playa Jobos
A lively beach with great waves for beginner and intermediate surfers, Playa Jobos also has tidal pools and local food spots. It’s a social hub with a relaxed, fun vibe.
Boquerón
A charming coastal village known for its friendly atmosphere, Boquerón offers beach access, seafood eateries, and a festive weekend nightlife. Its wide, sandy beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Pueblo de San Germán
One of Puerto Rico’s oldest towns, San Germán showcases colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and historical landmarks. It’s rich in culture, with museums and charming plazas to explore.
Shacks Beach
Popular with snorkelers and kite surfers, Shacks Beach in Isabela has clear waters and coral reefs just offshore. The beach is known for its relaxed, rustic vibe and natural beauty.
Sandy Beach
A lively beach in Rincón popular with surfers and beachgoers, Sandy Beach offers consistent waves and beachfront bars. It’s a go-to spot for sunset views and casual nightlife.
La Parguera
A coastal village known for its bioluminescent bay, La Parguera features mangrove channels, boat tours, and offshore cays perfect for snorkeling. It’s a vibrant destination for eco-tourism and marine adventures.
Places to eat & drink in Puerto Rico
Savor the flavors of the Caribbean with this classic dish of mofongo, served with tender strips of seasoned beef and a side of savory dipping sauce.
Brisas del Mar Restaurant, Cabo Rojo
This seaside gem offers fresh seafood and authentic Puerto Rican dishes with an unbeatable view of the Caribbean sunset. Don’t miss their mofongo topped with garlic shrimp—locals rave about it. Very rustic, but the food and view are amazing.
Island View Restaurant, Cabo Rojo
Known for its romantic atmosphere and elevated views of the ocean, Island View serves up delicious surf-and-turf options. Another great experience with a view.
Red Flamboyan, Rincón
Tucked away in the hills, this rustic restaurant blends island charm with rich flavors. Their pork chops and tostones are local favorites, served under the shade of flamboyan trees.
The English Rose, Rincón
A beloved breakfast and brunch spot in the hills, offering stunning views and hearty, homemade meals. Their Eggs Benedict and house-made jams are a must-try.
Rincón Beach Café, Rincón
A laid-back beachside stop ideal for casual bites and tropical drinks. Enjoy a piña colada and fish tacos with your toes in the sand.
Desecheo Restaurant, Aguadilla
A long-standing local favorite known for generous portions and comforting Puerto Rican cuisine. I love their churrasco (skirt steak)—it is tender and packed with flavor.
La Chocolatería, Aguadilla
This sweet little café specializes in artisan chocolates and gourmet coffee. It’s a perfect stop for dessert lovers or a cozy break. Adding this to your trip is a must. Don’t forget to buy their coffee, too.
Sonido del Mar, Isabela
An upscale oceanfront restaurant where fine dining meets coastal vibes. The menu features creative seafood dishes and elegant plating ideal for a special night out.
Pura Vida, Isabela
A health-conscious café with a tropical flair, Pura Vida serves fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and vegetarian options. My family loves the place for a light lunch or post-beach snacks.
El Patio de La Jamaca, La Parguera
Located inside a boutique guesthouse, this hidden gem offers a relaxed atmosphere, live music, and island-inspired dishes. I loved their cocktails, and friendly service makes it a favorite among travelers.
Need to know
If you love exploring new places, using San Juan as a base gives you the perfect launch point to discover the beauty and diversity of Puerto Rico’s west coast. From secluded beaches and lush landscapes to charming small towns and unforgettable food, this region offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island culture.
Isabela, Aguadilla & Rincón (approximately two hours from San Juan)
These towns on the northwestern coast are ideal for a day trip or an overnight getaway. Each has its own unique vibe:
Isabela is known for its dramatic coastline, natural beauty, and scenic trails. You’ll find beaches like Jobos and Playa Middles popular with both surfers and beach lovers. The Guajataca Tunnel and surrounding cliffs offer beautiful views and photo opportunities. Inland, there are lush hills and trails perfect for hiking or biking. Isabela is a place where you can feel connected to nature while still enjoying modern comforts and great local food.
Aguadilla offers a little bit of everything: surf culture, history, and some of the most stunning beaches on the island, like Crash Boat Beach, which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset watching. Surfers love Surfer’s Beach and Wilderness Beach, while families enjoy the calmer waters of Playa Peña Blanca. The town also has an old lighthouse (Ruinas Faro) and even a water park for kids.
Rincón is one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic beach towns, known globally for its laid-back vibe and incredible surf scene. During the winter months, the waves draw surfers from around the world. But it’s not just for surfers, Rincón also has art galleries, yoga studios, beach bars, and quiet beaches like Steps Beach, ideal for snorkeling and relaxing. The sunsets here are legendary, and the weekly farmers’ market is a great way to experience the local community.
Cabo Rojo, San Germán & La Parguera (approximately 2.5 hours from San Juan)
A bit farther, but absolutely worth the drive if you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten-path:
Cabo Rojo is a beach lover’s paradise and my hometown. Known for its peaceful, crystal-clear waters, it’s home to some of the most serene beaches in Puerto Rico, Playa Sucia, Buyé, and Combate, just to name a few. The Cabo Rojo Lighthouse sits dramatically atop limestone cliffs, offering panoramic views of the coastline you can explore on a two- to three-mile hike. Nearby, the Salt Flats provide a rare, almost surreal landscape. Since many of these spots are remote, it’s a perfect place to pack a picnic and enjoy a sunset with no distractions.
San Germán, one of Puerto Rico’s oldest towns, is full of colonial charm and history. Stroll down cobblestone streets, admire the Spanish-style architecture, and visit the Porta Coeli Church, one of the oldest churches in the Americas. San Germán feels like a living museum, with a slower pace and an authentic, small-town feel that’s a refreshing change of scenery.
La Parguera, located in the municipality of Lajas, is a vibrant fishing village with an energetic yet laid-back coastal vibe. It’s best known for its bioluminescent bay, where you can take a nighttime boat tour to witness glowing waters, an unforgettable natural phenomenon. During the day, you can boat out to nearby cays like Cayo Caracoles for swimming and snorkeling, or just wander the boardwalk lined with local restaurants and craft shops. The town comes alive on weekends with live music and dancing.
Things to know
Some of the most beautiful beaches, especially in Cabo Rojo and La Parguera, are remote and far from restaurants or shops. It’s a great idea to bring snacks, water, or a full picnic, especially if you plan to spend the day.
Sunscreen, sturdy shoes (for hiking to places like the lighthouse or salt flats), and a camera are essentials.
Bioluminescent bay tours in La Parguera typically require reservations and are best experienced on moonless nights for maximum visibility.
If you don’t enjoy long drives or want to spend more than a day in the region, I’d be more than happy to assist in finding lodging, whether it’s a beach bungalow, a guesthouse in the mountains, or a boutique hotel near town.
No matter what kind of traveler you are—adventurer, foodie, history buff, or beach lounger—Puerto Rico’s west coast has something for you. Let me know what you’re looking for, and I can help tailor the perfect experience.
Travel Advisor
Kenneth Lund
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