Punta Borinquen Beach

Location: Aguadilla

Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours west until you reach the west coast of the island. This may be the the first west coast beach as it sits right on the northwestern corner of the island. You’ll pass the Aguadilla airport and turn down a road that takes you through a golf course. There is a large paved lot next to the beach entrance.

Things to do:  Walk the beach – there is a grove of palm trees on one side and the ocean on the other. Walking down the beach you’ll be facing a large cliff which is unusual on Puerto Rico beaches. Relax in the shallows – The shore break waves can get rough at this beach but when the surf is mellow there will be areas that are relatively calm. Eat lunch – this is a great place to eat lunch on the beach as there is a lot of shade in the trees and a few picnic tables you can claim if you show up early enough.

Heads up: The shore break waves make the water inaccessible for much of the year. Make sure there is not a large swell before you go if you plan on getting in the water.