Best Beaches to Swim in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a Caribbean paradise known for its rich culture, vibrant cities, and stunning natural beauty. But one of its greatest treasures lies along its coastline – its magnificent beaches.

The Ultimate Guide to Puerto Rico's Top Beaches for Swimming

In this article, we'll explore some of the best beaches for swimming in this tropical paradise.

1. Culebra Beaches for swimming

Culebra, Puerto Rico, known as Isla Culebra or "Snake Island," is a hidden treasure nestled in the heart of the Caribbean. Situated approximately 17 miles east of the Puerto Rican mainland, 12 miles west of St. Thomas, and 9 miles north of Vieques, this island municipality is often referred to as the "Last Virgin" due to its location at the southern end of the Virgin Islands archipelago.

Spanning just 5 miles in width and 7 miles in length, Culebra enchants visitors with its exquisite beaches, fantastic snorkeling opportunities, and the ease of exploration via rental jeeps.

beach view

For those seeking an escape from typical resort experiences and yearning for a chance to swim with turtles, savor breathtaking beaches, and explore secluded coves while immersed in a relaxed atmosphere, Culebra is a highly recommended addition to your travel bucket list.

Furthermore, I found that a lumbar pack was a valuable travel companion, adept at efficiently holding must-haves such as an iPad, snacks, drinks, and reading materials during flights. Moreover, it served as a versatile bag for both beach and town outings, conveniently carrying items like towels, water, sunscreen, and other essentials.

2. Rincón's Beaches

Rincón's beaches are compact, tranquil, and each possesses its distinct charm. These are among the most unspoiled locations on the mainland, perfect for indulging in activities such as surfing, snorkeling, swimming, and power diving.

One particular beach, conveniently situated near the town center, is a favored option for both locals and tourists seeking a spot for swimming. It provides an excellent setting for beachcombing, whether you're searching for seashells or sea glass, exploring the underwater wonders with snorkeling gear, or simply unwinding on the sandy shore. 

This beach offers abundant amenities, including ample free parking, picnic areas, public restrooms, showers, and changing facilities, making it particularly appealing to visitors who aren't staying at beachfront properties.

Additionally, the public beach enjoys proximity to various shops, restaurants, and bars, guaranteeing a wealth of entertainment options once you've had your fill of the beach. While weekdays at the public beach tend to be peaceful and spacious, it can get quite crowded on weekends, so it's wise to arrive early to secure your spot.

The public beach is an excellent choice for a family picnic or a leisurely swim in the gentle waters, making it a favored destination for numerous visitors.

3. Fajardo beach

Located in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, Seven Seas Beach is conveniently positioned just a 45-minute drive to the east of San Juan. Nestled along the northeastern shoreline of the island, it boasts stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, adjacent to Bahia las Cabezas. This picturesque beach is a short drive away from Fajardo, the primary city on Puerto Rico's eastern coast.

During our stay at a VRBO rental, Seven Seas Beach became our preferred choice for relaxation and leisure, a mere 5-minute drive from our lodging.

For those in search of a family-friendly beach experience, Seven Seas Beach proves to be the perfect selection. 

It offers an array of amenities, including BBQ and picnic areas, restroom facilities, showers, nearby dining options, and the option to camp right on the beach for a nominal fee of $10 per person per night. The water maintains a consistently pleasant and calm temperature year-round, with a designated swimming area enclosed for the little ones' safety.

Moreover, the park provides twenty covered shelters that can be rented, making it an excellent option for larger groups. Reserving these shelters costs $10 each ("toldos y canopies pagan $10"). The extensive grassy areas are ideal for picnicking, allowing children to play or offering space for various physical activities.

4. Luquillo beach

Luquillo is a municipality in Puerto Rico, situated on the northeast coast. It is located to the northwest of Fajardo and east of Rio Grande. Luquillo encompasses five barrios and Luquillo Pueblo and is notable for lending its name to the Sierra de Luquillo, which is home to the El Yunque National Forest.

Visitors to Luquillo have the opportunity to enjoy swimming in the area. There is a designated swimming zone along the coastline, complete with lifeguards. Luquillo Beach, in particular, is well-suited for families due to its calm waters.

Travelers in Luquillo can explore various beaches for swimming, with Luquillo Beach being one of the popular choices. 

However, It's Essential for Tourists to check the weather and ocean conditions before taking a dip. Luquillo's beaches are susceptible to high tides and rip currents, especially during the autumn and winter seasons.

5. Sun bay Beach

Isla de Vieques, one of Puerto Rico's offshore island municipalities, is situated a mere 7 miles off the eastern coast. Vieques stands out as a destination that retains the charm of the Caribbean of yesteryears: tranquil, verdant, unspoiled, and graced with unparalleled natural beauty.

Among its notable features, Vieques boasts Mosquito Bay, renowned as the world's brightest bioluminescent bay. With numerous pristine, undeveloped beach coves, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the genuine essence of tropical paradise. This small gem of Puerto Rico is also home to the Caribbean's largest natural wildlife sanctuary.

Conclusion:

Puerto Rico, with its diverse coastline and stunning natural beauty, offers an array of beaches for every type of swimmer. Whether you're seeking calm, family-friendly shores or a more adventurous surf experience, there's a beach to suit your preferences. From the iconic Flamenco Beach to the serene Playa Buyé, these top picks will help you.

FAQs

Is it safe to swim in the ocean in Puerto Rico?

Yes, generally, it is safe to swim in the ocean in Puerto Rico, but it's essential to be aware of local conditions and follow safety guidelines.

What part of Puerto Rico has the clearest water?

The beaches in Vieques, particularly Mosquito Bay, are known for having some of the clearest waters in Puerto Rico.

Which side of Puerto Rico is best for beaches?

The western side of Puerto Rico, including Rincon and Aguadilla, is renowned for its stunning beaches and great surfing conditions.