Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Diving & Snorkeling
Because of the rough water this is not a great place for snorkeling, but snorkelers will fare
much better in summer, when the water is calmer. Head for either
Playa Shacks
or
Playa
Steps
near Black Eagle Marina for the best of what the beaches have to offer.
Rincón has two good dive shops thanks to the popularity of diving the pristine reefs
around Rincón and Isla Desecheo.
Taíno Divers
DIVING, SNORKELING
( 787-823-6429;
www.tainodivers.com
;
Black Eagle Marina; 2-tank dive $129,
snorkeling $95)
Located inside the little marina north of town, this is probably the best
outfit on the west coast; its guides are responsible, professional and very environmentally
aware. It does almost daily runs to Desecheo (8am to 2pm) and shorter trips to nearby reefs
(8am to noon). Snorkel trips, one-tank dives, whale-watching and sunset cruises are also
available, as well as chartered deep-sea fishing trips.
Desecheo Surf & Dive Shop
DIVING, SNORKELING
( 787-823-0390;
www.desecheosurfshop.com
; El Faro Road; half-day board rental
$20-25)
You'll pass this low-key rental shop en route to the lighthouse. They also offer les-
sons and dive gear, but no dive trips.
SURF BEACHES
As far as surfing folklore goes, Rincón wins the ultimate accolade: it's mentioned in
a song by the Beach Boys. Released in 1962,
Surfin' Safari
names Rincón as the
place where 'they're walking the nose,' surfer slang for moving forward on the board
toward the front. For walking the nose or simply taking in the action from shore,
here's a guide to Rincón's hottest surf beaches (running south to north):
»
LittleMalibu
Just north of the marina. OK in winter, with easy 4ft breaks. Good for
beginners.
»
Tres Palmas
The big kahuna, with breaks of up to 25ft. Requires
bon courage
and
a long paddle out. Handle with care.
»
Steps
Also known by its Spanish name,
Escalera,
this is the 'inside' break to Tres
Palmas' 'outside' break. Good snorkeling spot when it's calm.
»
Dogman's
A local favorite that is anything but predictable. Expect waves that are
high and hollow.
