BEST SURF SPOTS IN PUERTO RICO

Pine Grove

Pine Grove - Isla Verde, Puerto Rico Pine Grove features a sandbar wave that breaks both left and right, with a sandy bottom mixed with rock. The spot works best on mid to high tide, particularly during rising tide, and is optimal for swells of 1.8 to 2.4 meters, with the best conditions occurring at swells over 2.4 meters. This popular surf spot is ideal for beginners, offering instant access from a nearby parking area. While the beach can get ultra crowded on weekends, weekdays see fewer surfers. The wave can be fun and fast, especially when it reforms over the shallow sandbar. Be mindful of potential dangers like urchins and man-made hazards. With a friendly vibe, Pine Grove encourages surfers to relax and enjoy the waves, making it a cherished location for locals and visitors alike.

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Hallows

Hallows - Puerto Rico Hallows features powerful, hollow waves breaking over a coral reef with sharp rocks and sand. This spot offers both right and left-handers, ideal for experienced surfers. The best conditions occur with northeast and east swells, particularly during low to mid tide, with rising and falling tides enhancing the wave quality. Located west of San Juan, access requires navigating Highway 22 and road 684, where the break is not visible from the road. Look for parked cars near local houses to find the entrance. Expect a crowded atmosphere, especially on weekends, and be cautious of localism and natural hazards like urchins and riptides. Hallows is renowned for its stunning scenery and exhilarating barrels, making it a must-visit for surfers in Puerto Rico. Arrive early for the best glassy conditions and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow surfers.

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Indicators

Indicators - Rincon, Puerto Rico Indicators features powerful, hollow right-hand waves breaking over a shallow reef, making it ideal for experienced surfers. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk, but caution is advised due to the sharp rocks and potential hazards like urchins and rips. Best conditions occur at high tide with rising and falling tides, and optimal swell from the north, northwest, or west. Located further down the coast from more popular spots like Marias, Indicators offers a laid-back atmosphere with fewer crowds. The challenging entrance and rocky terrain may deter less experienced surfers, but those who are skilled can enjoy uncrowded sessions and the thrill of catching impressive barrels. While the vibe is relaxed, respect for locals is essential, as the spot can be punishing for those who underestimate its power.

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Sheraton

Sheraton (San Juan) - Puerto Rico Sheraton features powerful, hollow waves that break over a sandy bottom, offering both right and left-hand rides. The spot is best surfed at mid to high tide, particularly during cold fronts when the swell is strong. Be cautious of rips and urchins, especially when conditions are challenging. Located east of La Santa, accessing Sheraton is straightforward from San Juan. The area can become ultra-crowded on weekends, so arriving early is advisable. While the waves cater primarily to bodyboarders, surfers can also enjoy shortboards, funboards, and longboards depending on the swell. The rocky reef presents hidden hazards, making it essential to stay alert. Always respect the local vibe and check the surf forecast, particularly in autumn and winter when swells are more consistent.

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La Ocho

La Ocho - Parque del Escambron, Puerto Rico La Ocho features a reef break with both right and left waves, characterized by a steep, mushy right wall and a shorter, hollow left. The wave works well at all tides, with optimal conditions at 1.5 to 3 meters, maxing out at 3 meters. The bottom consists of sharp coral and rocks, requiring caution when paddling out. Located just east of Old San Juan, La Ocho is accessible via Escambron Beach, with a convenient parking lot nearby. The spot is popular among longboarders and families, offering a relaxed atmosphere despite occasional crowds. Best surf conditions occur from late summer to early spring, particularly during tropical cyclone swells. Be mindful of wind direction, as southeast to southwest winds are most favorable. The area is known for its friendly vibe, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned surfers looking for fun, forgiving waves.

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Caballos

Caballos - Puerto Rico Caballos features powerful, hollow waves breaking over a sharp coral reef, with depths ranging from 1.5 to 6 meters. This right-hand reef break is best during the winter months when northwest swells arrive, or during summer hurricanes. Caution is advised due to strong currents and dangerous reef conditions. Accessing Caballos requires a boat ride of approximately 10 minutes or a challenging 45-minute paddle from shore. Located east of Isla Verde, surfers can park near a bridge and walk to a vantage point to spot the waves. The break is known for its intense conditions, especially in an area called "popcorns," where waves can create chaotic backwash. Surfers should be aware of potential dangers, including urchins, rips, and sharp rocks. Despite its challenges, Caballos offers an exhilarating experience for those seeking world-class surf.

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Cueva del Indio

Cueva del Indio - Puerto Rico Cueva del Indio features a reef break with both right and left-hand waves, characterized by hollow and fun conditions. The bottom consists of sharp coral rocks, making it essential for surfers to be cautious. Access is instant, requiring less than 5 minutes of walking, and the spot is publicly accessible. This surf spot works best during low and mid tides, particularly with a falling tide. Optimal swell directions come from the North, Northwest, and Northeast, while the wind should ideally blow from the Southwest, South, or Southeast. Weekdays see few surfers, but expect a crowded scene on weekends. Be mindful of potential dangers such as urchins, rips, undertow, and rocks, which can pose risks to unwary surfers.

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Las Pasas

Las Pasas - Cerro Gordo, Puerto Rico Las Pasas features powerful, hollow waves breaking over a sharp coral reef, offering both right and left-hand rides. Located on the North Coast, just 30 km west of San Juan, it provides instant access with a short walk of less than 5 minutes. This surf spot thrives on low to mid tides, particularly during rising tide conditions, and is best suited for swells from the north, northwest, west, east, and northeast, with optimal wind from the south and southeast. The crowd is typically sparse during the week, with only a few surfers on weekends. However, caution is advised due to potential dangers such as urchins, rips, undertow, and sharks. Las Pasas is a hidden gem for those seeking an exhilarating surf experience away from the busier spots.

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La Bomba

La Bomba - Puerto Rico La Bomba features powerful, hollow waves breaking over flat rocks and sand, suitable for both right and left rides. This reef break works best at mid to high tide with a rising tide, and is influenced by north swell and wind from the north or south. Access is private, requiring a short 5-15 minute walk from the Sheraton. This spot is reminiscent of the waves at Middles in Isabela but offers longer rides. While it can be crowded on weekends, weekdays see fewer surfers. Caution is advised due to potential dangers such as urchins, rips, rocks, and sharks. Parking is limited, so it's recommended to find paid parking nearby, especially since new parking meters have been installed in the Condado area. Enjoy the thrill of La Bomba, but be mindful of the conditions and hazards.

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Luquillo - La Selva

Luquillo - La Selva - Puerto Rico This spot features a right-breaking reef wave with a coral bottom, known for its hollow and powerful characteristics. The wave works best at mid tide with rising and falling tides, and is ideal under north to northeast swell conditions. Access requires a long walk (over 30 minutes) through rural farmland, with potential hazards from local cattle. Luquillo - La Selva is a hidden gem on the east coast of Puerto Rico, offering stunning scenery with miles of white sand beaches and palm trees. The surf here is often uncrowded, especially during the week, allowing for enjoyable sessions. While the beach break can be fun, the real thrill lies in the right-hand reef break, which can deliver long, punchy waves. Surfers should be cautious of the shallow reef and localism, and it's advisable to pack a lunch for the trek. This secluded spot is perfect for those seeking adventure and a connection with nature.

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Gas Chambers

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Middles

Middles - Near Jobos Middles features powerful right-breaking waves over a rocky reef with flat rocks and sand. The spot generally works best with 1-1.5 meter faces, particularly during low and mid tides with a rising tide. Optimal conditions occur with swells from the North, East, or Northeast and winds from the South, Southwest, or Southeast. Located near Jobos, Middles offers instant access within a 5-minute walk and is publicly accessible. While weekdays see few surfers, weekends can become crowded, often leading to paddle battles and rail bumping among the local youth. Surfers should be cautious of urchins, rocks, and localism. This spot is renowned for its challenging conditions, making it a favorite among experienced surfers looking for a thrilling ride.

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TOCONES

Tocones - Puerto Rico Tocones features a reef break with both right and left waves, characterized by a coral bottom mixed with sand. The spot is known for its hollow and powerful waves, offering fun sessions when conditions are right. Access is straightforward, with instant access available within 5 minutes from parking. Located near Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, Tocones is easy to find and typically has a low crowd during the week, making it ideal for those seeking a more relaxed surf experience. However, weekends can get crowded. Respecting the local vibe is crucial for a positive experience, and interactions are generally friendly. Be cautious of the shallow lava reef, as it poses a significant hazard. Bring essentials like sandals, sun protection, and wax, and enjoy the unique atmosphere this spot has to offer.

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Los Tubos

Los Tubos - Manatee County, Puerto Rico Los Tubos features a right-breaking reef wave over sharp coral and rocks, ideal for experienced surfers. The wave works best at mid to high tide, particularly during a rising tide, providing a fun and challenging surf experience. Located in eastern Manatee County, Los Tubos is easily accessible with less than a five-minute walk from parking. The atmosphere is typically friendly, with light crowds during the week, although weekends can get crowded. Surfers should paddle out on the left side of the break to avoid sea urchins. The wave can throw over quickly, making it essential to be prepared for fast conditions. Overall, Los Tubos offers a welcoming vibe and the potential for epic surf days, especially when the conditions align.

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The Reef

The Reef - Culebra The Reef is a powerful right-breaking coral reef wave, suitable for surfers of varying skill levels, with optimal heights ranging from 0.6 to 3.7 meters. The spot features sharp rocks and works well at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements. Access is straightforward, with a short walk from the parking area. Located on the beautiful island of Culebra, The Reef is known for its consistent surf conditions, attracting both locals and visitors. The atmosphere is warm year-round, allowing for boardshorts and optional rash guards. Surfers should be mindful of the crowd, which tends to be sparse during the week but can get busy on weekends. To reach the peak, paddle approximately 10-15 minutes from the beach, navigating through the reef as needed. Be cautious of rocks while enjoying the fast and powerful waves that this spot has to offer.

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Islitas

Islitas - Isla Verde, Carolina Islitas features powerful and fast reef waves that break both right and left over sharp coral rocks. Located at latitude 18.4487 and longitude -66.0153, this surf spot is accessible via a short walk (5-15 minutes) from the nearby Empress hotel. It is suitable for experienced surfers due to its conditions. The spot works best at high tide with rising and falling tides, and is favored by surfers when the swell comes from the north, northwest, or west. The area remains relatively uncrowded during the week and on weekends. However, caution is advised due to potential hazards such as urchins and sharp rocks. Paddling out may require some effort, but the experience is rewarding for those seeking fun and challenging surf conditions.

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Dogmans

Dogmans - Rincon, Puerto Rico Dogmans features a reef break with both right and left waves, characterized by hollow, fast, and powerful conditions. The bottom consists of sharp coral, making it essential for surfers to be cautious. This spot works at all tides and is best with a northwest or west swell, complemented by southeast, east, or northeast winds. Located in the Rincon area, Dogmans serves as a less crowded alternative to the popular Maria's surf spot. Access is straightforward, with parking available near Calypso Cafe or in Villa Ensenada, and a quick paddle out left of the pistons. While the weekdays see fewer surfers, weekends can become crowded. This spot is suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers, but caution is advised due to potential dangers like urchins and rips. The scenic backdrop of lush hills adds to the experience, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking quality waves away from the hustle.

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California

Inches - Patillas, Puerto Rico Inches features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The waves are known for being hollow, fast, and powerful, making it ideal for boogie boarding rather than traditional surfing due to their quick nature. This spot works well at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements. Located just outside Patillas along Route 1, Inches is a popular summer destination, especially during hurricane swells. The waves can break in just a few inches of water, providing thrilling rides that can stretch up to 100 meters. Access is easy, with parking available nearby, and the crowd is generally sparse during the week, allowing for a more relaxed experience. However, be cautious of fire coral and rips/undertow in the water. The best conditions are typically found in summer and fall, particularly after tropical cyclones pass south of the island.

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El Misto

El Misto - Puerto Rico El Misto features a powerful reef break with hollow and fast waves, predominantly breaking to the right and left over sharp coral. The wave can reach lengths of up to 20 meters, but it is infrequent, typically working only during specific swell conditions from the North to Northeast, and at low to mid tide. Accessing El Misto requires a 25-minute walk from the balneario in 7 Seas, Fajardo, with a sketchy paddle out due to a narrow channel. The spot is often empty, providing a serene atmosphere for surfers. While it can pick up smaller swells when other spots are flat, caution is advised due to the shallow reef and potential dangers such as urchins and rips. When conditions align, surfers can enjoy a fast, pitching take-off, with the option to paddle to nearby Racetracks for a right-hand wave if El Misto closes out.

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Chatarras

Chatarras - Puerto Rico Chatarras features powerful, hollow left-hand barrels breaking over a sharp coral reef. The wave works best with a northwest swell during low to mid tide, offering exhilarating rides for experienced surfers. Access is straightforward, with parking available near the beach, and entry points located at small cracks in the reef. Often regarded as one of the Caribbean's premier surf spots, Chatarras can become ultra crowded, especially during peak conditions. The ideal time to surf is during the late summer and fall for tropical cyclone swells or winter for consistent waves. Surfers should be cautious of localism and sharp urchins, as the vibe can be intense with many locals vying for waves. This spot is not recommended for beginners due to its challenging nature and the potential for aggressive crowds. Always be aware of your surroundings and respect the local surf etiquette to ensure a safe and enjoyable session.

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