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house, which sleeps 10 - but all have bamboo furniture, basic kitchen facilities and a fant-
astically sustainable ethos (they're even solar-powered). It's rustic and quirky, so it's better
for those looking for a back-to-nature excursion than a plush retreat. Set on a ridge in the
dense jungle forest, this is a true escape from civilization. As such, getting here can be a
bit tricky, as it's on unmarked roads off Hwy 115. Calling ahead for detailed directions is
essential.
Lazy Parrot Inn
HOTEL $$
( 787-823-5654;
www.lazyparrot.com
; Hwy 413 Km 4.1; r $125-165; )
Claiming the middle ground between high quality and high quirky, the Lazy Parrot captures
the unique essence of Rincón without scrimping on the home comforts. A venerable inn
crammed full with all kinds of parrots - including real ones, carved ones, inflated ones and
stuffed ones - it occupies the high country above Rincón, offering glimpses of the spark-
ling ocean. Rooms are comfortable, but not flashy; the restaurant, LPR (
Click here
), is a
culinary corker; and the inviting pool and Jacuzzi - not to mention the leafy Bamboo Bar
- are positively sublime (especially at night). The staff is friendly and the clientele well-
dressed gringos with surfing aspirations.
Casa Verde Guesthouse
GUESTHOUSE $
( 787-605-5351;
www.enrincon.com
; Beach Rd off Hwy 413; apt $70-180; )
Cheap and fun, this sea-green guesthouse is the place to stay if you want to stumble to
bed after indulging in Rincón's scrappy party scene. It's a bit rough around the edges, with
horses in front and an adjoining party hall (Rock Bottom Bar & Grill,
Click here
), but Casa
Verde is a surfer-friendly guesthouse with super-modern accommodations. There are one-,
two- and three-bedroom choices available - with the added plus of a late-night bar scene
right next door.
JOAQUIM CRUZ: RINCÓN SURFER
Rincoń was the first place in Puerto Rico to sponsor surfing in a big way after the
1968 World Championships. It also embraces surfing culture in its entirety, with
friendly people, plenty of places to stay, a decent local mayor, rural tranquility and an
excellent array of other sports. Ten years ago I was surfing with my friend, Rasta, up
at Crash Boat Beach near Aguadilla. The swell was so awesome that the local dudes
