Puerto Rico West Coast Region GuideLocal Expert Guide - Best Things to Do, Beaches, Places to Visit & Experiences, Maps & Itinerary Ideas (2024)

Puerto Rico Travel Guide ⎮ Tourism Guide to West Coast Region

Don't Miss the Bioluminescent Bay at La Parguera while on The West Coast

The west coast has always been the most popular vacation destination for Puerto Ricans, which says how special the region is. On the west coast, you can vacation in beach towns where a relaxed laid back island life is evident in the way people live, laugh, eat, and dance. On the west coast, tourists become travelers and workaholics start rethinking their way of life. The natural treasures to explore are numerous.

We, the owners of this guide, happily live on the West Coast and proudly share the beauty of the places we love and know so well. After exploring the western region, you may dream of buying a second home after you get a taste of island life. We have created a list of places from Guanica on the southwest to Isabela on the northwest, but not in that order. Following, we share the best places to visit and things to do.

We are updating this page for 2024, so please return for more updates and additions.

Best Places to Visit & Things to Do

West Region - Puerto Rico

Visit the Cabo Rojo Natural Wildlife Refuge

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

Top Rated Tour to Cabo Rojo

On the southwest point of the town is the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, packed with activities and sights for nature lovers, birders, beach lovers, hikers, and photographers; it is truly one of the most beloved and enchanting places in Puerto Rico. Your first stop will be the Observation Tower, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the reserve, the elegant lighthouse in the distance, and the colorful salt flats.

You may also observe birds since Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge is a bird sanctuary for migratory birds. Next, you can make a quick stop at the gate to admire the Las Salinas (The Salt Flats), often called Pink Beach by travelers. Your journey continues on a bumpy dirt road through a forest where you can observe mangrove trees, cacti, and salt flats. Your next stop will be a parking lot to hike up to Los Morrillos Lighthouse and cliffs, where the views will take your breath away. Don’t miss the Natural Bridge and La Playuela, one of the prettiest beach coves on the island.

Go Beach Hopping on the West Coast to Experience the Best Beaches on the Island

The West is the best when it comes to beaches in Puerto Rico… from perfect surfing conditions to dreamy crystal clear water, there’s a beach for everyone to love.

The west coast of Puerto Rico is an exciting beach destination, offering visitors weeks’ worth of adventure and relaxation in the water. If beaches are a priority on your vacation, the west coast on the main island of Puerto Rico may be your perfect vacation destination. The diversity in beaches is impressive, from world-class surfing beaches to calm swimming beach coves to crystal clear waters on offshore cays.

The high season on the west coast is during the summer months. For vacationers escaping the cold, it means you can enjoy most of these amazing beaches without crowds on weekdays. Whether you’re a surfer traveling with a group of friends, a honeymooner dreaming of romantic beach scenes, or a family seeking a memorable vacation, the west coast is an excellent destination.

+ Best Beaches of West Coast of Puerto Rico

Go Surfing / Learn How to Surf

Rincon, Aguadilla & Isabela

Learn to Surf in Rincon

If you love surfing, watching them ride the waves, or always wanted to learn how the west coast of Puerto Rico is where you’ll want to vacation. You’ll have three towns with many surfing beaches to choose from. The high season for surfers is during the winter months, but there are several beaches where you can surf all year round. Beginners will have beaches where you can safely learn how to surf with friendly instructors and perfect your skills. The most famous beach town is Rincon, but if you ask locals, some prefer the neighboring towns of Aguadilla and Isabela.

Spend an Afternoon at La Parguera Nature Reserve

Lajas, Puerto Rico

A visit to La Parguera is a must when exploring the West Coast, particularly if you’ve yet to experience the magic of a bioluminescent bay. This charming fishing village offers a delightful day trip. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters for a memorable swim and snorkeling adventure on the mangrove cays. La Parguera boasts casual restaurants and cozy pubs serving traditional cuisine with plenty of fresh fish. On weekends, the village comes alive with artisan stands showcasing wooden crafts, jewelry, and mouthwatering traditional Puerto Rican sweets. The lively atmosphere extends to the square, where live music and dancing beckon locals from nearby towns, warmly inviting you to join in the festive spirit.

Mangrove Cays, Sunset, Great Food, and Bioluminescent Bay Experience

+ La Parguera Nature Reserve - Lajas, PR

Top Rated Tours - Lajas, Puerto Rico

+ Lajas, Puerto Rico

Go Snorkeling

Guanica, Lajas, Rincon, Aguadilla & Isabela – Puerto Rico

Top Rated Snorkeling Tour in Rincon

The west coast is the most family-friendly place to snorkel. Adults can go snorkeling offshore to explore reefs teeming with fish and sea turtles, and children will have places to snorkel in safe, clear, and shallow waters for an unforgettable experience. The best beaches to go snorkeling are Steps Beach in Rincon, The Pier at Crash Boat Beach, the cays at La Parguera in Lajas, Peña Blanca in Aguadilla, Shacks Beach in Isabela, and Playa Santa in Guanica, among others.

Toddlers will be able to snorkel safely at Pozo Teodoro in Isabela, Caracoles in Lajas, Buye Beach (north end) in Cabo Rojo, and Gilligan’s Island in Guanica. Please visit our snorkeling guide to the best beaches and places to snorkel in Puerto Rico.

Take a Romantic Horse Back Ride on Secluded Beaches

Isabela, Puerto Rico

The west coast of Puerto Rico offers a tranquil escape from the crowds on the city beaches. The undeveloped, dramatic landscape of some of the beaches in the northwest creates an idyllic backdrop for the pleasures of horseback riding. Riding along the shores, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of expansive, unspoiled stretches of sand, complemented by the rhythmic sounds of the ocean waves. This immersive experience satisfies the longing for coastal pleasures and allows you to appreciate the allure of Puerto Rico’s western coastline, making it an unforgettable journey for those seeking adventure and romance.

+ Book the best horseback riding experience on the West Coast

Jump in the Waterfalls of Gozalandia

San Sebastian, Puerto Rico

While on the West Coast, add Gozalandia Waterfalls in San Sebastian to your itinerary. This natural haven boasts two breathtaking waterfalls, offering an ideal destination for a family outing. The cascading waters create a picturesque setting that invites visitors to engage in joyful activities, such as playful jumps into the refreshing basins below.

Gozalandia Waterfalls is an immersive experience, offering both a thrilling adventure and serene retreat, Gozalandia Waterfalls caters to both, making it a perfect destination for the entire family.

+ Cascadas Gozalandia (Waterfalls) - San Sebastian, Puerto Rico

Top Rated Tours to Gozalandia Waterfalls from San Juan

Coffee, Bakery Treats, & Architecture at Plaza de Colon

Mayaguez, Puerto Rico

Plaza de Colon, the central square of Mayaguez, stands out as one of Puerto Rico’s most charming and sophisticated plazas.In contrast to some other squares that have seen a decline in activity due to the closure of local businesses, Plaza de Colon has managed to maintain its vibrant atmosphere. It serves as an enduring outdoor living space, providing a welcoming haven for the community and friends to come together over coffee sprinkled with the laughter Puerto Ricans are known for. Plaza de Colon is the hub for various art and cultural events throughout the year in Mayaguez. The square is the canvas for the town’s artistic and cultural expressions. You’re cordially invited to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this plaza, where the pulse of life and the richness of local culture converge. During Christmas, Plaza de Colon transforms into a dazzling and festive spectacle, making it the most enchanting plaza across the island. Its radiant and artistic Christmas lights draw in visitors from all corners of Puerto Rico, creating a two-month celebration that captivates the hearts of locals and tourists alike.

Be sure to have ice cream at Rex Cream at the square and delicious Puerto Rican pastries and fresh Mallorca bread at Ricomini Bakery a few blocks from the square.

For a comprehensive guide to upcoming events, check the municipality’s Facebook page.

+ Mayaguez, Puerto Rico

Chug Along at the Guajataca Tunnel Park

Guajataca, Puerto Rico

We invite you to visit El Tunel de Guajataca (The Guajataca Tunnel), a historic railroad passageway once used for transporting sugar cane. This intriguing site invites you to embark on a scenic and leisurely hike culminating in the discovery of a secluded beach adorned with stunning rock formations. Be sure to pack a hammock, hundreds of palm trees invite visitors to hang a hammock and immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of the ocean surf. Guajataca Beach is not a bathing beach but perfect for a long romantic walk with rocks that serve as seats to admire the scene. Weekends at Guajataca Tunnel come alive with artisans showcasing their handmade creations and food trucks tempting visitors with traditional delights. Allow yourself approximately 2 hours to fully enjoy the Guajataca Tunnel experience, embracing the history, natural beauty, and vibrant local culture that converge at Guajataca Tunnel and Beach.

+Guajataca Tunnel, Isabela / Quebradillas, PR

Top Tours to Guajataca, Puerto Rico

+ Guajataca Tunnel

Relax & Watch the Surf at The Natural Pools of Isabela

Isabela, Puerto Rico

Isabela’s coastline is unique, featuring an array of natural pools formed by coral walls. These enchanting pools provide a serene setting, allowing visitors to sit in the shallow, crystal-clear waters. This idyllic spot attracts those seeking tranquility away from crowds. There are no facilities and some require a little walking from the parking spot, keeping the natural pools nice and quiet. Families with toddlers seeking a beach for kids to play on the water will really enjoy Pozo Teodoro, Posita Sardinera, and La Princesa. The water depth in these pools varies from a gentle one foot to a slightly deeper three feet, contingent upon the strength of the surf. As you unwind, you’ll be treated to a continuous spectacle of waves crashing against the protective coral wall.

Best times to enjoy the natural pools in Isabela: The beaches are always fuller during winter, during the summer a few of them are very shallow or empty.

+ Beaches of Isabela, Puerto Rico

Enjoy the Sights from Punta Higuero Lighthouse

Rincon, Puerto Rico

If you happen to be in the vicinity, a visit to Rincon Lighthouse Park is a must. While lighthouse enthusiasts will appreciate the historical charm, the breathtaking views truly steal the spotlight. Bring your professional camera, as Punta Higuero serves as an exceptional photography spot. Revel in the panoramic landscapes featuring the distant Isla Desecheo (Desecheo Island). Stay until sunset to witness a romantically beautiful display, and keep an eye out for surfers riding the waves. During the winter months, lucky visitors might catch a glimpse of humpback whales, sometimes coming remarkably close. For those seeking physical activity, the paths are perfect for a leisurely walk or invigorating jog, ensuring an all-encompassing and delightful experience at Rincon Lighthouse Park.

+ Rincon, Puerto Rico

Experience the Local Beach Culture at Crash Boat Beach

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

Crash Boat Beach holds a special place in the hearts of locals and has become a sought-after point of interest for travelers. While it may not boast the title of the most visually stunning or scenic beach, Crash Boat offers a unique charm that makes it a worthwhile visit. The waters are crystal clear, providing a refreshing escape, and the sunsets paint the sky with breathtaking hues every day of the year. Embrace the local vibe as vendors offer refreshing cold coconut water, local ice cream, traditional food, and artisan crafts on weekends. The beachside restaurant adds to the lively atmosphere, featuring live music on weekends. The iconic pier at Crash Boat draws teens and adults, offering the perfect platform for exhilarating jumps into the water. Below the pier, the snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities are exceptional, provided the weather conditions and currents are favorable. It’s worth noting that Crash Boat thrives with activity, including the lively tunes played by locals; thus, if you prefer a quieter, crowd-free experience and a relaxing, idyllic feel, Crash Boat may not be the ideal spot for you.

+ Crash Boat Beach Guide - Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

Get Cast Away at Gilligan’s Island / Cayo Aurora

Guanica, Puerto Rico

Embark on an unforgettable adventure and become a castaway for a day at Gilligan’s Island, nestled in the charming town of Guanica. This mangrove island feels more like a giant, crystal-clear natural pool where you can swim, snorkel, and meander along picturesque channels. Experience true tranquility, as Gilligan’s Island is rarely crowded, offering a secluded escape, especially on weekdays or outside the summer weekend rush. Reach this paradise with a budget-friendly water taxi, adding a touch of adventure to your journey.

Itinerary Suggestion: Conclude your day by dining at Copamarina Resort, where you can savor a delightful meal against a mesmerizing west coast sunset. For those yearning for more, venture to La Parguera in the neighboring town of Lajas to witness the enchanting beauty of the bioluminescent bay, ensuring your day is filled with magical moments.

+ Gilligan’s Island - Guanica, Puerto Rico

Visit the Farmer’s Market in Rincon

Every Sunday at 9:00 am, at the town square of Rincon, the Farmer’s Market gets lively with artisans, fresh local produce, traditional sweet goods, live music, and great food. The market is popular among locals and visitors, it is a great event to get a feel for the town spirit and support local vendors.