6 Beautiful Beaches In Puerto Rico You Must Visit

Puerto Rico is known as the Isle of Enchantment, a nickname it truly deserves. Besides beautiful architecture, great food, thriving nightlife and a music scene that dominates the Latin American market, the island has gorgeous beaches.

Whether you’re a resort traveler looking for beaches with amenities or want a secluded beach next to a wildlife reserve, Puerto Rico has it all. The island also has three out of the five bioluminescent bays in the world. This means you can see water glow at night at any time of year.

So get ready for some of the most amazing experiences you can have in the world. These are the best Puerto Rico beaches.

# Playa Sucia

Although its name literally translates to "Dirty Beach," rest assured it is far from that. On the contrary, Playa Sucia also known as Playuela is famous for its turquoise and deep blue waters, which contrast beautifully with its soft white sand.

The half-moon-shaped beach is also near a lighthouse from 1882, the Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo. Families love this beach because of its shallow waters and calm waves, which make it safe for children to swim in.

# Carlos Rosario Beach

Though definitely not the most famous beach on the Puerto Rican island of Culebra, Carlos Rosario is tranquil and quiet. In fact, the beach is one of the best secluded beaches in the world.

Don’t expect facilities, stores or restaurants. There is nothing here but sand, trees and water. That’s what makes it perfect for anyone who likes peacefulness at the beach and who doesn’t want to fight for sand space with anyone.

Carlos Rosario Beach is also near the more popular Flamenco Beach and Tamarindo Beach.

# Icacos Cay

A small island off the coast of Fajardo, Icacos Cay is a popular day trip for those staying in the northeast of Puerto Rico. You can get there by boat and enjoy a deserted island which has little else besides an abandoned dock.

Snorkeling is a popular activity, though plenty of people spend the day in the white sand. The water is crystal clear and warm. Overnight stays aren’t possible, since the cay isn’t developed, but you can decide between half a day or an entire day here.

# Flamenco Beach

The most popular beach on the island of Culebra is Flamenco. With white sand and clear water, it has all the makings of a beautiful beach. But there's a twist. Right on the sand are abandoned U.S. military tanks.

These tanks are a reminder of Culebra’s dark past as a military weapons testing site and have become the main draw of Flamenco Beach. The rusting iron contrasts the tranquility of the beach itself, as well as the verdant forest that surrounds it.

# Gilligan's Island

Also known as Aurora Cay, Gilligan's Island (we know, let the jokes begin) is off the southwestern coast of Puerto Rico. You can get from the mainland to the small island by water taxi. The ride only takes about five minutes.

The island has deep, crystalline waters and its shores are protected by mighty mangroves. Kayaking, swimming and snorkeling are the main activities to do. There are no facilities on the island, which is one of the reasons that marine life is so rich around it.

Only 200 people are allowed to visit each day, which keeps this paradisiacal island intact.

# Mosquito Bay Beach

Mosquito Bay isn’t just one of the most amazing beaches in Puerto Rico. It's one of the best in the world. The beach holds the Guinness World Record for being the brightest bioluminescent bay on the planet a feat that should be celebrated.

While it is not as easy to reach as other beaches in Puerto Rico, the effort to make it to Vieques Island and stay overnight is rewarded with an experience that will seem like a surrealist dream once you’re back home.