A brilliant sunset from Tres Palmas beach, on the west coast of Puerto Rico.
West
Catch some waves and laid-back vibes in Puerto Rico's capital of surfing and sunsets.
Home to some of the best beaches on the Island, the west region is the undisputed surfing capital of Puerto Rico – and the Caribbean – and features the best sunsets on the Island. The feel on the west side is different from the hustle and bustle of the San Juan metropolitan area. Towns here have a more relaxed surfer vibe, which isn’t a coincidence since surfers flock to Rincón from all over to ride the waves at iconic beaches like María’s beach and Domes.
REGION FACTS
Distance from San Juan's airport: 2–2.5 hours
Distance from Aguadilla’s airport: 45 minutes–1 hour
Surfers flock to Rincón, the surfing capital of the Caribbean.
The salt flats in Cabo Rojo appear a vibrant pink shade.
Guánica State Forest & Biosphere Reserve is the best example of a dry forest in the Caribbean region.
La Parguera is a paradise for watersports including snorkeling, kiteboarding, and scuba diving.
For breathtaking sunsets, head to Rincón on the west coast.
Get back in touch with nature in Cabo Rojo.
From the Mirador de Guajataca you can enjoy the sea breeze and the best views.
The Monument to Cacique Mabodamaca in Isabela is a sculpture made in honor of a Taíno chief.
The historic Teatro Yagüez in Mayagüez is an excellent venue to see a show.
Explore the West Region
Surfers await the perfect wave at Domes Beach in Rincón.
Surfing and sunsets — that's what Rincón is all about.
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A view of Guánica lagoon during a beautiful sunset.
Known as the "paradise of eternal summer," Guánica is home to the best-preserved tropical dry forest in the Caribbean.
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Enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Cabo Rojo.
This off-the-beaten-path coastal gem is worth exploring for its unique landscapes and protected beaches.
Discover moreNo passport needed for U.S. travelers
Since Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, American citizens and permanent residents don't need a passport to travel to the Island. However, they must always travel with a valid ID, such as driver license or a state ID card.
Peering over Guánica Dry Forest from historic Fuerte Caprón.
Things to Do
The west region is ideal for enjoying water activities, particularly surfing. Beginners who want to learn can find lessons in Isabela, Aguadilla, or Rincón, and more experienced riders can find board rentals and local advice from area surf shops.
For travelers who prefer to stay on dry land, explore Los Morrillos Lighthouse and natural wonders like the Puente de Piedra (a natural stone bridge), salt flats, and a stunning white-sand beach called Playuela, all of which can be found at the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge. For hikers, Guánica State Forest offers trails through one of the most extensive tropical dry coastal forests in the world. Visit Mayagüez and stroll through the picturesque Plaza de Colón or catch a live performance at the historic Teatro Yagüez. In Isabela, you can enjoy a horseback ride on the beach and pop into beachfront restaurants to savor seafood, local draft beers, mojitos, and fresh coconut water. Also, be sure not to miss La Parguera, a quaint fishing village in Lajas, which is a playground for water sports including kayaking and kiteboarding and is home to one of the five bioluminescent bays in the world.
Where to Stay
In western Puerto Rico, you will find a variety of accommodations for every style and budget. There are luxurious properties like Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa in Guánica, the first-class Mayagüez Resort & Casino, and Royal Isabela, a noteworthy golf course and resort with oceanview villas. You can also choose from casual beachside guesthouses, modest inns, and intimate paradores like Villa Cofresí Hotel & Restaurant and Combate Beach Resort, which is located in a nature reserve steps from one of the best beaches in the region.
Where to Eat
Head west and discover some of the most eclectic and exciting restaurants on the Island. From charming stands alongside popular surfing beaches to food trucks with diverse offerings to one of the Island's most popular breakfast spots, there are lots of ways to enjoy a meal on Puerto Rico's west coast. You definitely won't want to miss sunset happy hour at one of the many open-air bars and restaurants along the coast in Rincón.
In Episode 2 of our "Sounds like Puerto Rico" series, we're taking you to the west coast of our Island, where you'll relish in the beautiful views and relaxing vibes, and learn all about the surfing culture in Puerto Rico. You'll also learn some local lingo used among the surfers and Boricuas. Let's surf!
More Places to Explore
· More Places to Explore · More Places to Explore ·
The coastline in Aguada
Aguada
Explore the "City of Discovery" on Puerto Rico's west coast.
Aguadilla is known to have some of the best surf breaks on the Island.
Aguadilla
Aguadilla is known to have some of the best surf breaks on the Island, but it offers much more than just great waves.
The Catholic church overlooking Añasco's town square, Plaza de Recreo José A. Pesante.
Añasco
A hidden gem on the west coast, Añasco is a town is ripe for discovery for visitors and locals alike.
Hormigueros is one of the smallest towns in Puerto Rico.
Hormigueros
Explore "The town of the miracle" on Puerto Rico's west coast.
Jobos is a trendy beach in Isabela.
Isabela
Isabela is the perfect destination for a fun, beachside getaway in Puerto Rico.
The historic Teatro Yagüez in Mayagüez is an excellent venue to see a show.
Mayagüez
The Sultaness of the West is the unofficial capital of Puerto Rico’s west coast
San Germán's entire historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
San Germán
Explore San Germán, Puerto Rico's second-oldest town.
Susúa State Forest is 3,240 acres of subtropical forest where you can spot rare birds and red bats, the only native mammal on the Island.
Sabana Grande
Sabana Grande is surrounded by public forest land and packed with history and architectural gems.
Yauco's lush landscape beckons those who love to explore the great outdoors.
Yauco
Called El Pueblo del Café (“Coffee Town”), Yauco is a hub for the Puerto Rican coffee industry.
Don't miss the opportunity to book a kayaking tour in La Parguera.
Lajas
A coastal destination for unforgettable aquatic adventure
Panoramic views of mountains and valleys near Lares.
Lares
A mountain town rich in history – and coffee.
Enjoy gorgeous mountain views in Las Marías.
Las Marías
Natural beauty, coffee, and fun meet in the mountains.
Maricao is known for producing one of the best quality coffees in Puerto Rico.
Maricao
Panoramic views, history, and coffee — all in one place.
View of Moca's town square.
Moca
Visit Puerto Rico's capital of lace.
For a beautiful, easy coastal hike visit the Guajataca Tunnel park.
Quebradillas
Quebradillas is a playground for nature lovers, and home to famous pirate history.
Explore the magnificent San Sebastián Falls.
San Sebastián
Museums, history, and natural wonders in northwest Puerto Rico.
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