Luquillo Beach

Location: Luquillo

Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes east. Because this is one of the closest beaches to El Yunque National Forest, many go to El Yunque in the morning and the beach in the afternoon. To get to the prettiest section of the beach that has a view of the Luquillo Mountains, it is easiest to park in the huge paid parking lot and walk to the beach where you’ll be closer to where the beach turns a corner. You can also park at the kiosks for free and walk to any part of the beach from there.

Things to do: Relax in the shallows – the water is totally calm and shallow a long way out making this one of the best beaches to relax in the water. Walk the beach – the beach is very long and the view of the Luquillo Mountains is beautiful from the far side of the beach. Eat – the famous Luquillo Kiosks are located right next to the beach and trying some seafood or traditional Puerto Rican dishes while there is an absolute must.

Heads up: This beach will always be busy – it’s one of the most popular beaches on the island. It is big, so often it doesn’t feel as crowded as it otherwise would. If you park at the kiosks, be prepared for a lot of traffic when parking and leaving the parking lot. The paid parking area closes around the same time the sun sets.