Your guide to surfing in Puerto Rico
Table of contents
With warm waters and consistent swells, Puerto Rico offers some of the most ideal conditions for surfers of all skill levels. It doesn't matter if you’re paddling out for the first time or chasing your next big break — the island’s diverse coastlines cater to every kind of wave rider.
Princess Cruises is your expert guide to surfing in Puerto Rico. With seamless San Juan cruise itineraries and curated shore excursions, guests can experience the best beaches in Puerto Rico without the stress of planning every last detail.
This guide explores everything you need to know, including where to surf in Puerto Rico, the best times to go, what to pack and how Princess makes it all effortless. Even if you’re simply hoping to watch the action from the shore, surfing in Puerto Rico is a memorable addition to your Caribbean vacation.
Key takeaways
- Puerto Rico offers year-round surf for all skill levels, with winter bringing bigger swells for experienced riders and summer offering calm waves for beginners.
- Top surf spots like Luquillo, Rincón, Aguadilla and Isabela provide a range of experiences — from family-friendly beaches to world-class reef breaks.
- Guests can enjoy seamless surf excursions through Princess or extend their stay to explore more of Puerto Rico’s coast.
Why Puerto Rico is a surfer’s paradise
A tropical climate and over 300 miles of coastline make Puerto Rico a standout destination for surf lovers. With water temperatures hovering in the low 80s year-round and steady winds fueling the surf, conditions are great if you visit in winter’s peak swell season or during the calmer summer months.
Often called the “North Shore of the Caribbean,” Puerto Rico is known for the same wave quality and diversity you’d expect from more famous surf regions. And it comes without the long-haul travel other surf spots require. Rugged reef breaks and soft beach breaks can all be found within a few hours of San Juan.
When you travel with Princess, accessing these top surf spots is simple. When you step off the ship for a guided excursion or extend your vacation to explore more of the island, surfing Puerto Rico becomes part of a smooth, well-planned journey.
Best places for surfing in Puerto Rico
Luquillo: great for beginners and families
Just an hour from the cruise port, Luquillo is one of the most accessible surf towns for cruise guests. It’s also a perfect introduction to surfing in Puerto Rico. La Pared Beach is the main draw, offering long, gentle waves that are ideal for beginners and younger guests. Several local surf schools operate here, providing lessons and rentals right on the sand.
Beyond the waves, Luquillo’s relaxed vibe and wide sandy shores make it a great spot for families. Guests can combine surfing with nearby Princess excursions, like hiking in Puerto Rico’s El Yunque National Forest or exploring bioluminescent bays after sunset.
Rincón: the surf capital of Puerto Rico
Rincón is legendary in the surfing world. Located on Puerto Rico’s west coast, it hosts international surf competitions each winter and attracts riders chasing some of the Caribbean’s biggest and most powerful waves. Top surf spots include Domes, Maria’s and Tres Palmas — each known for their reef breaks and expert-level surf.
While Princess does not currently offer excursions to Rincón due to its distance from port (about three hours), guests can opt to arrive in Puerto Rico early or extend their stay post-cruise to explore this iconic town. Cruises from San Juan offer easy access for those looking to start or end their surf trip in style.
Even if you’re not surfing, Rincón is a relaxing place to spend the day. Grab a drink, sit in the sand and watch some of the best surfers in the Caribbean.
Aguadilla: perfect for all skill levels
Located about two hours from San Juan, Aguadilla has become a favorite destination for surfers of every level. Crash Boat Beach is great for beginners, with mellow waves and a wide sandy launch. For more advanced riders, Wilderness and Surfer’s Beach offer steeper drops and more powerful breaks.
While this area is not part of Princess shore excursions, it’s worth considering for guests adding time to their vacation. The surf community here is laid-back and welcoming, with board rentals and beachfront cafes available for a low-key day in the waves.
Isabela: reef breaks and secluded waves
Farther west along the coast, Isabela is an under-the-radar gem with consistent surf and less crowding. Jobos Beach caters to intermediate surfers who are looking for fun, fast rides over a sandy reef. Nearby Middles Beach attracts more experienced surfers, especially during the winter swell season.
Isabela is best for guests extending their stay, especially those who want a quieter, more adventurous surf trip. The surrounding area is also ideal for pairing with other activities like hiking or sightseeing, giving you a full-day escape off the beaten path.
When to surf in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s surf scene is year-round, but the best waves roll in during the winter months. From October to March, the island’s north and west coasts catch consistent Atlantic swells, making it the best time to travel to Puerto Rico for experienced surfers looking for bigger, more powerful waves.
For beginners or families with younger guests, April through September offers calmer conditions and smaller surf that is perfect for learning in a more relaxed setting. Water temperatures stay comfortably in the low 80s throughout the year, so there’s no need for thick wetsuits.
Planning your visit with Princess means you can take advantage of the best surf conditions during your trip. If you’re traveling during the peak swell season or aiming for a more beginner-friendly summer session, the cruise schedule makes it easy to pair your vacation with the right surf experience.
Surfing excursions and lessons in Puerto Rico
Surf schools for beginners
Luquillo’s La Pared Beach is one of the best places to start. With mellow waves and surf schools right by the water’s edge, it’s ideal for guests looking to ease into the sport. Group and private lessons are available for families, with instructors guiding you through everything from stance to paddling technique.
While lessons at more remote locations like Rincón and Aguadilla are available through local operators, guests would need to plan these independently — either before or after their cruise.
Guided surf tours for experienced surfers
Advanced surfers ready to chase the bigger waves should consider guided surf tours to renowned spots like Tres Palmas in Rincón or Wilderness in Aguadilla. These reef breaks offer fast, challenging rides.
While these areas are not currently included in Princess excursions, surf tours are available locally and can often be booked in advance. Guests interested in these experiences can consider extending their visit in Puerto Rico before or after their cruise.
Multi-activity excursions for surf and adventure lovers
If you’re hoping to combine surf time with other activities, Puerto Rico delivers. Princess offers a range of multi-activity excursions that pair coastal adventures with snorkeling Puerto Rico’s clear waters or exploring the island’s scenic trails.
When you’re ready to swap your board for a paddle or hike in Puerto Rico after your beach session, these excursions add variety and excitement to your trip — all with the ease of Princess planning.
Tips for planning a surfing trip to Puerto Rico
What to pack for surfing
While surfboards can’t be brought onboard due to their size, guests can still come prepared with a few key essentials. A rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes and a light wetsuit (especially for early morning sessions) are great to have on hand. If you’re renting a board through a local surf school, wax is typically included.
Forgot something? Princess offers onboard shopping for essentials like sunscreen, so you’ll be ready to hit the beach without missing a beat.
Surf etiquette and safety tips
Puerto Rico’s surf breaks are friendly — but just like anywhere, respecting local customs keeps the vibe positive. Always follow standard lineup rules, give right of way to the surfer closest to the peak and avoid dropping in on someone’s wave.
Renting a surfboard
Since guests can’t bring surfboards onboard, renting locally is the best option. Surf schools in areas like Luquillo offer board rentals by the hour or day. These shops often provide soft-top boards for beginners and both shortboards and longboards for more experienced riders.
Your excursion team can help point you in the right direction — or suggest alternative activities if you decide to stay on shore and relax.
Other activities to enjoy beyond surfing
Surfing may be a highlight, but Puerto Rico offers so much more beyond the waves. For guests looking to balance adventure with relaxation, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences available through Princess excursions.
Explore the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System with the El Yunque National Rainforest Scenic Drive excursion. Towering trees, natural pools and tropical birds create the perfect setting for a nature-filled day. Check out more hiking in Puerto Rico for trail options near San Juan.
Prefer the water? Swap your surfboard for a snorkel and dive into the island’s coral reefs or bioluminescent bays. Some of the most magical snorkeling in Puerto Rico is just a short excursion away. These guided tours are ideal for all ages and offer a closer look at the island’s marine life.
For even more variety, consider exploring Puerto Rico’s waterfalls or spending a relaxed afternoon at one of the best San Juan beaches. Families can also find fun-filled options on the island with plenty of things to do in Puerto Rico with kids, from interactive museums to zip line parks.
Princess Cruises makes it easy to choose your own adventure while enjoying the comfort of a curated itinerary.
Excursions with Princess: surfing made easy
Princess takes the guesswork out of planning your perfect Caribbean cruise. With curated Puerto Rico excursions that include transportation, knowledgeable local guides and access to beginner-friendly beaches, guests can enjoy a seamless surfing experience from ship to shore.
Even if you’re not planning to surf yourself, many excursions take you to scenic coastlines where you can relax on the sand or explore nearby beach towns. It’s the easiest way to discover things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, without worrying about the logistics.
After an energizing day on the water, returning to your ship for world-class dining and entertainment is the perfect way to wind down. With Princess, every surf trip ends in comfort.
Surf, sail and explore with Princess
With consistent waves in warm water and beaches for every skill level, Puerto Rico is one of the Caribbean’s top destinations for surf lovers. The island delivers memorable experiences surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. And with Princess — the experts in creating the best vacation experience — cruises to Puerto Rico become effortless.
From shore excursions to recommendations on where to relax or rent gear, everything is designed to give guests the perfect mix of adventure and ease on cruises from San Juan.
Ready to catch the perfect wave? Cruise with Princess and explore the best surfing in Puerto Rico today!
