Explore the Coast of Puerto Rico: An Unforgettable 7-day Journey Through Sun, Sand, and Surf

Get ready for an exciting road trip adventure along the coast of Puerto Rico, as we take you from the capital of San Juan west through Isabela, Rincon, Mayagüez, Cabo Rojo, Boqueron, and staying in Guanica at Copamarina Resort. On the way back to San Juan, travel through Ponce.

Day 1 – Start Your Coastal Adventure in San Juan

Fly in early morning into San Juan. Begin your exploration there, the island’s vibrant capital. Take the time to visit its historical forts and a beautiful beach before heading westward. Key attractions include:

Isla Verde Beach

A pristine stretch of sand and turquoise waters, popular among tourists and locals alike.

For lunch I recommend you eat at El Jibarito in Old San Juan, they are known for their Bistec Encellabo. If you would like to have a beach view, head to Pinoñes to eat at Restaurant Puerta Del Mar; you can order Pinchos, Mofongo, Churrasco, and other unique Caribbean Seafood Dishes.

El Morro & St Cristobal Forts

These massive structures stand as a testament to Puerto Rico’s rich history, and exploring them is a must-do for anyone who wants to truly experience the island. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and significance of El Morro and San Cristobal forts.

El Morro and San Cristobal forts are located in Old San Juan, the historic district of Puerto Rico’s capital city. El Morro, officially known as Castillo San Felipe del Morro, is a six-level fort that sits on a rocky promontory overlooking the entrance to San Juan Bay. San Cristobal, officially known as Castillo de San Cristobal, is a massive fort that was built to protect San Juan from land-based attacks. Together, these forts played a critical role in Puerto Rico’s history and are now popular tourist destinations.

After you have spent the day exploring San Juan, head to Levittown, where you will get dinner and stay for the evening. I recommend this AirBnB if you are traveling with 4 or less in your group.

Have dinner at El Kampestre. Their churrasco is second to none and their Bolitas de Mero are to die for!

Be sure to head to Panaderia Lemy for breakfast pastries or sandwich on their tasty fresh bread before you head out for Day 2.

Day 2 – Levittown > Mar Chiquita Beach >Isabela

Marvel at Mar Chiquita Beach

As you leave Levittown, head towards the enchanting Mar Chiquita Beach.

Mar Chiquita Beach is a hidden gem located on the north coast of Puerto Rico. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty and unique rock formations, which create a picturesque cove that’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, offering a sense of seclusion and tranquility that’s hard to find at other popular beaches.

You’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. The beach is small, but there’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun.

One of the highlights of Mar Chiquita Beach is the unique rock formations that create a natural barrier between the cove and the open sea. The rocks create small pools of water that are perfect for wading and exploring, and they provide a stunning backdrop for photos. The beach is also a great spot for picnics and relaxation, with several shaded areas.

Overall, Mar Chiquita Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Puerto Rico’s north coast. Its natural beauty, seclusion, and unique rock formations make it a truly unforgettable experience. This is a very peaceful spot, especially on a weekday. I would plan to spend a few hours there.

Experience the Coastal Charm of Isabela

Your next stop is the picturesque town of Isabela. Known for its breathtaking coastline, pristine beaches, and lush green cliffs, Isabela offers ample opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Popular spots include:

Playa Jobos

A beautiful beach, perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are plenty of food and drink options at Playa Jobos, but the beach is pretty crowded, even on weekdays.

Discover the Mystique of El Pozo de Jacinto

Continue eastward from Playa Jobos to El Pozo de Jacinto, a legendary natural pitcave (blowhole) located on Jobos Beach in Isabela. According to local folklore, a farmer named Jacinto lost his cow in the pitcave, giving rise to its intriguing name. The pitcave, powerful waves and unique rock formations make it a must-visit attraction.

Playa Montones

A little further down the beach from Playa Jobos and El Pozo de Jacinto, you can reach Playa Montones. This beach was much less crowded than Playa Jobos and is very beautiful.

We recommend you stay here in Isabela.

Day 3 Isabela > Guajataca > Rincón

Guajataca Tunnel

A historical railroad tunnel turned scenic viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the dramatic shoreline.

Unwind in Rincón: Puerto Rico’s Surf Capital

Head to Rincón, a laid-back beach town on the western coast, and indulge in its serene atmosphere. Known as the island’s surf capital, Rincón is a haven for beach lovers and surfers alike. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Rincon offers some of the best waves in Puerto Rico. Must-visit beaches include:

Domes Beach

A popular surf spot with consistent waves and stunning views.

Sandy Beach

A tranquil shoreline, perfect for sunbathing and beachcombing.

El Faro Lighthouse

It is located on a cliff overlooking the ocean, the El Faro Lighthouse is a great place to watch the sunset.

Stay in Rincón at Pepe’s Village, a beautiful A-frame home.

Day 4 – Rincón > Mayagüez > Cabo Rojo

Explore the Vibrant City of Mayagüez

Your coastal journey continues in Mayagüez, a bustling city on the western coast of Puerto Rico. Known for its rich history and cultural attractions, Mayagüez offers a lively experience for travelers. It’s known as the City of Pure Waters, thanks to its many waterfalls and rivers. Mayagüez is also home to several beautiful gardens and parks. Key points of interest include:

• Plaza Colón: A vibrant square featuring historical monuments and charming architecture.
  • While in Plaza Colón, be sure to have some ice cream at Rex Cream; my favorite is Uva (Grape) and my husband’s is Maize (Corn). There are multiple locations in Mayagüez. If one is closed, just head over a street to find the other one.
  • Only one street over from the plaza is Ricomini Bakery. Have a pastry, coffee, sandwich or pick up some bread at Ricomini. Our favorites are the Quesito, Biscocha de Novia (Bride Cake), Braza Gitano, the cream one is our favorite (Gypsy Arm) and the Pan de Manteca (very soft bread) is amazing!
• Mayagüez Zoo: A well-maintained zoo showcasing a diverse collection of native and exotic animals.

We would grab breakfast at Ricomini, head to the zoo while it is still cooler in the morning. Once you are finished at the zoo, head back into the main town and cool off with some ice cream while relaxing in the square.

Immerse Yourself in the Natural Beauty of Cabo Rojo

As you venture further south, you’ll arrive at Cabo Rojo. Cabo Rojo is a town located on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico. This captivating coastal region is home to stunning natural attractions and pristine beaches, such as:

• Playa Sucia: A secluded beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
• Cabo Rojo Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse offering breathtaking views of the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.
• Salt Flats: The salt flats of Cabo Rojo are a unique natural wonder and a great place to take a hike and explore the area’s wildlife.

While in Cabo Rojo, we recommend you stay at this beach penthouse.

Day 5 Cabo Rojo > Boqueron > Guánica

Experience the Lively Atmosphere of Boquerón

Continue to the lively town of Boquerón, where you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere and picturesque beaches. Boqueron is a small town located on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and delicious seafood. Boqueron is also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Boqueron Food Festival and the Boqueron Music Festival.

This coastal village is famous for its lively nightlife, delicious seafood, and water-based activities. Don’t miss the chance to:

• Stroll along Boquerón Beach: A beautiful stretch of sand with calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
• Sample local cuisine: Indulge in mouthwatering seafood dishes and traditional Puerto Rican fare at the many restaurants and food stalls.

Find Serenity in Guánica and the Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa

Your coastal adventure leads you to Guánica, a tranquil town known for its lush nature reserves and unspoiled beaches. The perfect place to unwind after your journey, Guánica is home to the luxurious Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa. Key attractions in the area include:

• Gilligan’s Island: A small, mangrove-covered island with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
• Guánica Dry Forest: A unique ecosystem featuring diverse flora and fauna, offering opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

Day 6 – Copamarina & La Pargeuera

While you are staying at Copamarina, you may want to take an afternoon trip over to La Parguera. There is plenty to do at Copamarina, so you might want to extend your stay a day or two to be able to really experience the resort and surrounding area.

Visit the beautiful La Parguera

If you’re a trip to visit La Parguera, here are some of the top things to do in the area:

• Bioluminescent Bay Tour: This guided tour is a must-do activity in La Parguera, where you can experience the magical glow of the bioluminescent bays.
• Playa Rosada: This beautiful pink sand beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.
• Mangrove Forest: La Parguera is home to a beautiful mangrove forest, which can be explored by kayak or boat.
• Seafood: La Parguera is famous for its delicious seafood, which can be enjoyed at several local restaurants.
• Scuba Diving: The waters around La Parguera offer great opportunities for scuba diving and exploring the area’s underwater wildlife.

Day 7 – Discover the Rich History and Culture of Ponce > San Juan

From Guánica, head east to the vibrant city of Ponce, Puerto Rico’s second-largest city. Known as “La Perla del Sur” (The Pearl of the South), Ponce is filled with elegant architecture, fascinating museums, and lively public spaces. Must-visit spots include:

• Plaza Las Delicias: A bustling square surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the iconic red-and-black striped Ponce Firehouse.
• Museo de Arte de Ponce: A world-class art museum showcasing works from Puerto Rican, Caribbean, and European artists.

Stroll Through Ponce’s Historic District

While in Ponce, take the time to explore its well-preserved historic district, which offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past. Highlights include:

• Casa Armstrong-Poventud: A beautifully restored early 20th-century mansion, now a museum and cultural center.
• Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Guadalupe: A stunning neo-Romanesque cathedral located in the heart of Plaza Las Delicias.

Experience the Natural Wonders of Ponce’s Surroundings

The area around Ponce is home to several natural attractions that are worth a visit. Before continuing to Guayama, consider exploring:

• Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Center: An important archaeological site featuring ancient ball courts, plazas, and petroglyphs.
• La Guancha Boardwalk: A lively waterfront promenade with picturesque views, food vendors, and recreational activities.

San Juan

Your road trip concludes as you head back into San Juan to catch you flight home!

Efrain is from Puerto Rico, so this is just a taste of some of the things you can see and do in Puerto Rico; there are still so many things to see. We typically stay 2-3 weeks when we head down and there are even some things, that we have never seen. If you are planning a trip and need any help, please reach out! We would be happy to help you.

-S&E