Surfing Guide to Puerto Rico

• Summary

• When to go

• Surf spots

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/things to know

Summary

Puerto Rico is the Caribbean surfing capital. Especially during Fall and Winter, the power here is undeniable and quite surprising and became a reason why many Americans decide to go to Puerto Rico instead of Hawaii for their surfing holidays.

 

Most waves here break on reef and on a decent swell will provide some barrel action. The north and west sides of the island are most exposed to the Atlantic storms making them the best place to focus on for a successful trip.

 

Beginners also have many beach break options to chose from which will help them improve their surfing without getting smashed on shallow reefs.

 

Rincon is the main attraction in Puerto Rico being a lovely surf towns with many surf spots surrounding it and would be a great place to base yourself on a surf trip to Puerto Rico.

 

 

 

Although surfing is possible all year, things really start to heat up during the hurricane season in the month of August and should last all the way into Spring. Another positive aspect of Puerto Rico is the Caribbean pristine weather allowing you to leave all wet suits as well as the possibility of doing other activities on lay days.

 

 

 

When to go

The best time to surf Puerto Rico is from August to April for more consistent conditions although surfing is possible any time of the year.
 

 

Where to stay in Puerto Rico

The best place to stay on a surf trip to Puerto Rico is Rincon, a little surf town on the island’s west coast. There are a lot of surf spots in the area as well as great accommodation.

 

Browse our interactive map to find your dream place to stay on a surf trip to Puerto Rico!

 

Best surf hotels in Rincon

Casa Islena Inn

Rincon of the seas

Coconut Palms inn

 

 

Surf spots in Puerto Rico

Playa Aviones

Not too far from San Juan is this beautiful and consistent surf spot offering waves for all skill levels over a forgiving reef. This place tends to get crowded so everyone must respect other surfers and locals.
 
Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Optimal swell direction : N
Optimal wind direction : S
 
 

Middles

One of Puerto Rico’s best surf spot. A challenging, fast and barreling wave that breaks over a few rocks. Located on the north western part of the island, Middles is breaking pretty consistently on a NE swell.
 
Wave direction : Right
Bottom : Sand and rocks
Best tide : Low to mid
Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
Optimal swell direction : NE
Optimal wind direction : S
 
 

Tres Palmas

Beautiful reef break offering both lefts and rights but isn’t so consistent.
 
Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : High
Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
Optimal swell direction : NW
Optimal wind direction : E
 
 
 

Gas Chambers

Inconsistent barreling wave that works on a large NW swell. When it is on, it is a shallow and dangerous spot to be kept for advanced surfers only
 
Wave direction : Right
Bottom : Reef and sand
Best tide : High
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : NW
Optimal wind direction : E
 
 

Domes

A nice point break that tends to get crowded. Works well on a NW swell and produces fun rights.
 
Wave direction : Right
Bottom : Pebbles
Best tide : Mid to high
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : NW
Optimal wind direction : SE

 

 

Getting there

The main international airport is in San Juan, which is where most flights will land. From there, you can either stick to the north side beaches or move to the west side of Puerto Rico where Rincon is located.

 

 

Safety/things to know

-Hurricane season is from August to November. Some of them might not just bring waves but also hit the island. Heads up.
-Mostly reef breaks
-Localism