Every time the sun comes out after a rainstorm, the beach calls. Make time to cool off, break from the routine, and enjoy the unique beaches the Island has to offer.
Below, the hidden beaches in Puerto Rico to escape to this weekend.
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Who would think that right in the metro area, just steps from Old San Juan, there is a quiet spot that invites you to relax and get away from the noise? Access to Playa Bajamar, as some call it, is just across Avenida Muñoz Rivera, behind the Capitolio.
After crossing the avenue, find the plaza San Juan Bautista. Walk to the right and you will see some stairs. Follow the path and you will immediately find yourself in a small retreat.
We will admit that this beach in San Juan is not the best for those looking to swim, but if you are after a quiet beach in Puerto Rico, it is worth a visit.
Its name is still a matter of debate among visitors. Some call it Bajamar and others Playa Capitolio, but the fact is that once you arrive, there is a sign that reads "Playa Peña siempre limpia."
The debate over where the best beaches in Puerto Rico are, north, south, east or west, gets complicated once you discover this beautiful hidden beach in Manatí. Along the shore of playa Las Palmas, you will find small natural jacuzzis of clear water and a full spa-like atmosphere.
Before you head out, make sure to pack a bag with water, sunblock and good sneakers, because the path is quite rocky. Don't let that discourage you, though, because the trip is worth it and you will want to come back.
With calm surf, this beach, also known as Playa Sardinera, has trees that provide shade and good spots to set up a grill.
Managed by the Compañía de Parques Nacionales, it has restrooms, showers, picnic tables, a private parking lot, lifeguards and food vendors near the beach. A combination that makes it an ideal spot for a family outing.
Platea Tip: Parking is limited, so arrive early.
Within one hidden beach, there is another even more secluded one. It is called playa Cabeza Chiquita, and it is known for being completely removed from the bustle and party scene of Fajardo. It is really a small cove that sits between the strong eastern currents and places you immediately in one of the most summery spots on this 100-by-35-mile island.
As tends to happen with hidden beaches in Puerto Rico, its name is not firmly established, and some also know it as Playa Ma Grande. See the pin to get to playa Cabeza Chiquita, in Fajardo, here.
From the east, we move to the south. Guánica is the town of eternal summer and it surely has many secluded spots to enjoy the sun and sand in a more intimate way, but we will focus on Playa Jaboncillo, whose calm waters are perfect for water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling.
Along the route on PR-333, other popular beaches such as playa Caña Gorda and playa La Jungla draw tourists to the area, leaving access to Jaboncillo to you and the occasional curious visitor looking for a quiet, solitary stretch of beach.
See the pin to get to playa Jaboncillo, in Guánica, here.
If you manage to get a ticket for the Culebra ferry and want to avoid the tourist crowds, Playa Brava is your answer. The hike to reach it is 30 minutes, but once you get there, privacy and nature come together for an unmatched beach day. White sand, clear water, shady palms, only the sound of the waves, and a space all to yourself.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
