You don’t typically think of great surfing in the Caribbean, but there are a few spots that don’t disappoint when looking for waves in a tropical climate, not far from mainland US shores. Rincon, Puerto Rico is one of those cool, easy-going destinations that has a bit of a groovy hippie feel.
Although Rincón means “corner” in Spanish, this beautiful town located in the northwest corner of Puerto Rico is actually named for one of its famous 16th century landowners, Don Gonzalo de Rincón. Rincón is known not only for its natural beauty, but also for its tremendous surf. Surfing in Rincón hit the mainstream after the 1968 Surfing Championship was held there.
Because Rincón has beaches that face both the northwest and southwest (it’s located right where the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Ocean meet), there is a good chance of catching waves on any given day. North facing beaches include Pools, Sandy Beach, and Antonio’s. Southwest facing beaches are Tres Palmas, Maria’s, and Domes. Pools, Sandy Beach, and Antonio’s sport big breaks during the winter (the best time to surf in Rincón is October-April).
Tres Palmas is the biggest break in Rincón, and it’s best for VERY experienced surfers. When it goes off, waves can reach 25 feet! At Maria’s, the breaks are not as even, but during really big swells (about 3 times a year), you can see waves hit 20+ feet. Domes (named for the nuclear reactor located nearby) is very consistent and a great place for reliable surf–watch out during heavy northerly swells though–conditions can get dangerous very quickly!
There are different options for traveling to Rincón by air. You can fly into San Juan International Airport and make the 2 1/2 hour drive to Rincón, or you can fly into Mayaguez, which is a 15 minute drive to Rincón. There are commuter flight connections from San Juan to Mayaguez on Cape Air. Alternatively, you can fly into Borinquen Airport (BQN). Borinquen is 20 minutes from Rincón, and it is serviced by Jet Blue, United and Spirit Air with direct flights to Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale, Newark and New York City. They are so many amazing properties to stay at in and near Rincón.
The Horned Dorset Primavera is probably the most luxurious of them all, with a very gypset feel.. The resort consists of 17 white-washed villas, each with its own private plunge pool. Each villa enjoys a great deal of privacy, as they are situated amongst tropical gardens. The decor in each villa is impeccable, with hand carved furnishings and interior decoration with a nod to Balinese, Italian and Moroccan cultures. There is a phenomenal restaurant on the property, Restaurant Aaron. You can enjoy a $125 7-course tasting menu while you listen to the ocean and tropical breezes. The menu is a mix of international cuisine.
If you prefer staying in more budget minded accommodations, you should definitely check out the Grateful Souls Hostel! This mansion, turned hostel, is right on the beach in Rincón. It was founded by a “marine biologist, musician, painter, surfer, world traveler,” named Sara Aubery. Not only will you get fabulous hostel accommodations at $35/dorm and $80/private room–breakfast is included in the price.
There are a ton of great little shops in Rincón, where you can bring back a little piece of this surfing town. The Uncharted Studio is a favorite. It’s a very cool shop that makes eco-conscious silk-screened items. You will also find unique accessories made of environmentally sustainable materials like bamboo.
Next time you are looking to get on a plane to catch some waves, be sure to point yourself in the direction of Rincón. In addition to the waves, you are sure to discover some cool vibes around every corner!
