Dope Swimming Spots in Puerto Rico
Pro Tips & Guides

Dope Swimming Spots in Puerto Rico

Roaming Puerto Rico on

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Puerto Rico might be compact, but this Caribbean gem has exactly zero shortage of dope swimming spots. From hidden waterfalls tucked away in the rainforest to crystal-clear beach coves, I’ve spent over two months exploring every corner of this paradise. Whether you’re a waterfall chaser or beach bum, here’s my tried-and-tested guide to the best swimming spots that’ll make your Puerto Rico trip unforgettable.

Please note, a lot of places may be on private property and I’m leaving those out. I am not condoning trespassing.

Puerto Rico Waterfalls

Santa Clara Waterfall in Puerto Rico

  1. Salto Santa Clara - This hidden gem in Yauco is worth every minute of the 2+ hour drive from San Juan. The journey here is part of the adventure - you’ll find multiple swimming holes along the trail, and the main waterfall is usually crowd-free. Bring good hiking shoes and plenty of water!

  2. Cascada Gozalandia - One of the most touristsy waterfalls, but good a good reason. It’s one of the most accessible and has a few swimming spots.

  3. Cascada La Planta Eléctrica - An old hydro plant turned into a fun swimming spot.

  4. Cascada La Planta Eléctrica - On the free side of El Yunque, the Rio Espiritu Santo Waterfall is an attractive waterfall dropping in the namesake Río Espiritu Santo (Holy Spirit River) into a boulder-fringed green pool that is sometimes called Charco Verde.

Puerto Rico Swimming Holes (Charcos)

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Pro tip: The best time to visit these swimming holes is during weekdays when locals are at work. Weekends can get pretty packed, especially at the more popular spots.

  1. El Hippie Waterfall - listed as a waterfall that is 1+ hour south east of San Juan, but this is a large swimming hole area as well and my favorite. Located at the south end of El Yunque.

  2. Manati Springs - crystal clear swimming holes tucked away on hiking trails. DO NOT PARK ON THE STREET OR YOU WILL BE FINED.

  3. Cuevas Arenales Caves (Charco Azul) - this is another must see place about ~1hour southwest of San Juan. Tour companies will try to claim the parking on a residential house but its open to the public (for a small parking fee 100% worth it.) Do not drive all the way down the very steep road and caution parking on the street. This spot is infamous for tourist cars getting broken into.

Puerto Rico Beaches (Playas)

Looking for that postcard-perfect Caribbean beach experience? Puerto Rico’s coastline has you covered, with options ranging from bustling tourist spots to secluded paradises.

  1. Culebra - if you’re going to do one island off of Puerto Rico, this is the island.

  2. Playa Teresa - recommended by a local thrill seeker as his favorite beach located on the east coast.

  3. Playa Sucia - Down in Cabo Rojo, this beach was magical and plenty of shade to rest in.

  4. Seven Seas - located on the very NE tip, this beach connected to a natural reserve that is worth hiking. I recommend walking all the way to Natural La Zanja for some secluded rock pool swimming.

  5. Playa Corcega - On the west coast below Rincon.