The best beaches in Puerto Rico

If you're dreaming of sunbathing in a white-sand paradise, Puerto Rico is the answer. A perfect combination of crystal waters, fantastic weather, and wild nature. It's a great destination to discover throughout the year, with the exception of the hurricane season: an alternative and exclusive location for those sailing lovers who wish to explore the beauties of the world. 

Puerto Rico is located in the Caribbean region, which comprises an extensive archipelago of islands located in the Caribbean Sea, on the right side of Central America. The archipelago includes more than 700 islands, islets, reefs, and cays, one more beautiful than the other, with Cuba being the largest island. 

Around 270 miles of coastlines frame Puerto Rico with stunning beaches of white sand, surrounded by some of the clearest waters you will ever see. The diverse geography of this island also allows various sports activities, such as surfing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving that can satisfy any type of tourist. Even the capital, San Juan, boasts some amazing stretches of sand, with Condado District having a similar beach style to Miami.

But the most beautiful beaches are found outside the city, including those located on the nearby islands that are parts of Puerto Rico's territory, such as Culebra and Isla de Vieques. Renting a boat to discover the coves and remote hidden spots is the best way to fully enjoy the beauties of these amazing places. If you're planning a holiday to Puerto Rico, don't forget to add these top beaches to your list of places to visit! 

Best beaches in Puerto Rico to discover by boat

1) Flamenco Beach - Culebra Island

2) Tortuga - Culebrita Island

3) Combate Beach 

4) Playa Sucia

5) Cayo Aurora 

6) Pelicano Beach

7) Cayo Icacos

8) Sun Bay Beach - Vieques Island

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Flamenco Beach - Culebra Island

Not only one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico but also one of the best in the whole world. Flamenco Beach is located on the 17-mile-distant island of Culebra and it's a real paradise of white sand and turquoise waters, a perfect location to reach by boat.

This horseshoe-shaped beach is one of the favorite spots in the area for snorkeling since this place hosts one of the Caribbean's most beautiful coral reefs. 

The island of Culebra is quite small and very worth a visit. If you enjoy hiking, you can pay a visit to Isla de Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, which covers more than a third of its territory. 

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Tortuga - Culebrita Island

Even though we're not referring to that Tortuga Port from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean (which is actually located north of the island of Hispaniola), this beach on Colubrita island is a real hidden treasure.

It is reachable only by boat or seaplane and is a great spot for snorkeling, thanks to the variety of marine life you can encounter. 

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Combate Beach

A paradise for diving enthusiasts, this beautiful beach is located in Cabo Rojo and it's characterized by turquoise waters and a beautiful coral reef.

It's a wild beach with no facilities, mostly preferred by young crowds, and part of the Boquerón National Park. Here you can spot some of the most amazing sunsets on the island, so a visit is a must! 

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Playa Sucia

Located on Puerto Rico's southwestern tip, this half-moon-shaped gem will leave you in awe. It takes quite a long walk to reach it from the land, so a boat ride is the best solution if you want to enjoy this corner of paradise with ease.

The astonishing surrounding area allows you to switch between moments of relaxation and explorations. 

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Cayo Aurora

Although it is not a beach, this cay was nicknamed Gilligan's Island after the popular 1960s TV show and has the most transparent water in Puerto Rico.

It is part of the Guánica Biosphere Reserve and is fenced in by a healthy mangrove system that creates intimate spots throughout the cay and makes it a top choice for snorkelers. You can only get there by private boat! 

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Pelicano Beach

This beach is located in the protected sanctuary of Caja de Muertos, near the city of Ponce, and received the first Blue Flag distinction for a beach located in a natural reserve. Its name, which translates to "coffin," derives from the shape of the cay.

The clear and turquoise waters, as well as the beautiful surrounding vegetation, make this place unique in the whole Puerto Rican area. Climb up to the island's lighthouse for a breathtaking view. 

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Cayo Icacos

You will be enchanted by the clarity of the water on this beach. This destination is located on the northeast side of the island and it is renowned for the abandoned pier that is now home to many schools of fish and other marine creatures observable while snorkeling.

This cay is only reachable by boat or private ferry and it's a real paradise for those who wish to enjoy a day of relaxation surrounded by beautiful landscapes and absolute quiet. 

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Sun Bay Beach - Vieques Island

Isla de Vieques is another small island about eight miles from Puerto Rico that boasts some of the most amazing beaches in the area. Sun Bay Beach is one of the most famous spots, rich in palm trees and lush landscapes that are difficult to forget, and it's been awarded multiple times with the Blue Flag recognition. 

This island is also famous for a unique phenomenon that happens on certain nights at a place known as Bioluminescent Bay: the water in the bay glows from the movement of a large concentration of phosphorescent dinoflagellates. Don't miss this unique night spectacle! 

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Whether you prefer to relax in absolute peace or are more into water sports and exploration, Puerto Rico will undoubtedly steal your heart. This is the place of everlasting memories and perfect holidays, even better when they happen on a boat in the company of those you love the most. A private boat will allow you to plan your exclusive itinerary and enjoy the hidden beauties of this gem in the Caribbean Sea. 

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If you're interested in planning a sailing holiday in Puerto Rico, check our boat's availability in the area.