Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PLAN YOUR SURF TRIP
Lapped on four sides by warm ocean, Puerto Rico has earned the right to consider itself the
'Hawaii of the Atlantic', with the most consistent surf breaks in the world. Thanks to le-
gendary waves at beaches such as Tres Palmas, Crash Boat and Jobos, Puerto Rico has a
deeply ingrained surfing culture based around some of the best waves in the Americas.
When to Go
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October-April
Winter is the time when cold fronts and low pressure systems from the
north bring the biggest waves to Rincón and other surfing destinations on the west and north
shores.
When Not to Go
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December, June-July
Even though you can surf in the west year-round, rates spike in
December, when hordes of Americans on Christmas vacation invade, making for crowded
waters and competitive accommodations. In June and July there are smaller, if surfable
swells, but vacationing Puerto Ricans arrive in droves and many accommodations enforce a
three-night minimum stay.
Where to Surf
Although there are opportunities to surf the north and east coasts, the best of Puerto Rico's
surfing is off the famous west coast.
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Rincón
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) In 1968 the World Surfing Championships were held at Rincón, and
the island hasn't looked back since. Surfers from around the world come here for a long an-
nual season. The huge variety of breaks includes plenty of stuff for beginners and experts.
This is Puerto Rico's surfing capital.
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Aguadilla
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) Some locals actually favor the breaks near here, which are gener-
ally a bit more challenging than those at Rincón.
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Isabela
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) To avoid the crowds, rent an apartment on the cliff-edge out-of-the
way beach towns near Isabela. Playa Jobos, a long beach good for all levels, is here. Gas
Chambers is a right-hand break for experienced surfers, while Surfer's Beach is kind to be-
ginners.
