Crash Boat Beach

Location: Aguadilla

Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 30 minutes west until you reach the west coast of the island. Drive downhill along a road lined with crosses until you get to a parking lot on your left. There is an upper and larger lower lot. If all the spots are taken you will have to park on the street. Parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. I prefer to set up on the right side of the pier.

Things to do: Jump off the edge of the pier. There’s a rope tied at the edge of it to climb back up. It’s not easy – some people cannot manage. Snorkel – In between the pilings of the pier, you can always find a variety of fish. 20 or so meters out to sea, directly in front of the dock, you’ll see a scuba buoy. Snorkel along the ruins of the pier on the sea floor until you get there. The snorkeling is best if you can dive down to get close. Relax in the shallows – the water is relatively calm close to the shore except near the pier where there are shore break waves. Get something to eat at one of the food kiosks on the beach. They sell a giant piña colada for $10.00. You can rent a jet ski or go on a tube ride pulled by a boat.

Heads up: The parking is always a headache here unless you arrive in the morning. This is one of the busiest beaches in all of Puerto Rico. It will always be crowded and loud. Be careful swimming between the pilings, the coral is sharp. If you swim out from under the pier, make sure someone doesn’t jump on your head.