Playa Flamenco, Culebra
Flamenco Beach is often ranked among the best in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and a calm atmosphere make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
It’s located on the island of Culebra, a peaceful spot off Puerto Rico’s east coast. You can get there by ferry from Ceiba, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or by a 30-minute flight from San Juan or Isla Grande. The ferry is budget-friendly but fills up fast, while flights are quicker and more convenient if you're short on time. Once on the island, it’s a short taxi ride to the beach.
Flamenco is easy to enjoy, with food kiosks, restrooms, and space for camping. One of its quirkiest features is the rusted military tank on the sand, now covered in colorful paint and popular for photos.
Beautiful scenery. Photo: Marco Zanferrari
"Beaches are just sand and water". We completely disagree, beaches gives you everything you need in life: relaxation, nature and vibes.
Isla Verde Beach, San Juan
Isla Verde Beach is one of the most popular beaches near San Juan, known for its wide stretch of golden sand and clear, swimmable water. It's a lively area with a mix of locals, tourists, and beachfront hotels, but the beach itself is spacious enough to never feel too crowded.
Located just minutes from the San Juan airport, Isla Verde is easy to access whether you're staying nearby or visiting for the day. There are plenty of food options, water sports rentals, and shaded areas under palm trees. Despite being close to the city, the water stays clean and calm, making it great for swimming or just relaxing on the sand.
Playa Mar Chiquita, Manatí
Playa Mar Chiquita is known for its large natural pool, the biggest in Puerto Rico. While most of the shoreline is rocky, a sandy area on the left side is where people usually gather, and sometimes there’s another sandy patch on the far right.
The surrounding rock formations are climbable, especially on the left, though the right side can be dangerous due to strong waves. When the surf is up, massive waves crash against the rocks, sending water soaring into the air—an impressive and dramatic sight during high swell conditions.
Beautiful drone shot of the beach.
Playa Sucia, Cabo Rojo
Despite its name (“dirty beach”), Playa Sucia is one of Puerto Rico’s most visually stunning hidden gems.
This crescent-shaped beach sits below dramatic limestone cliffs near the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse. The water is calm and shallow, perfect for wading or simply relaxing while enjoying the open view of the sea. There's no development here—just natural beauty, salty air, and quiet surroundings.
Playa Sucia is about a 45-minute drive from Mayagüez, or around 2.5 hours from San Juan, making it a great day trip if you're exploring the west coast. You'll pass through the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, and while the final road is a bit rough, most cars can handle it with care.
There’s a dirt parking area near the lighthouse trail. It’s free, but limited. From there, it's a short walk to the beach. Be sure to bring everything you need—there’s no shade, no food stands, and no restrooms. Just you and the coastline.
Playa Sucia, Cabo Rojo. Photo: Edgar Torres
La Playuela (Playa Buyé), Cabo Rojo
Remote, quiet, and surrounded by palm trees, La Playuela is a gem on the island’s southwest coast.
It’s not easy to reach, but the shallow, calm water and uncrowded feel make it worth the drive. Great for floating and unplugging.