Surfing Guide to Puerto Rico

• Summary

• When to go

• Surf spots

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/things to know

Summary

Puerto Rico is the undisputed surfing capital of the Caribbean, offering warm waters, powerful waves, and a mix of reef and beach breaks perfect for all skill levels. With consistent Atlantic swells and a laid-back tropical atmosphere, it’s no surprise that many surfers from the U.S. choose Puerto Rico over Hawaii for their winter surf trips.

From beginner-friendly beaches near San Juan to world-class reef breaks in Rincón, Puerto Rico is a year-round surf destination with something for everyone. And best of all? You can leave your wetsuit at home.

Why Surf Puerto Rico?

• No passport required for U.S. citizens

• Consistent swell from August through April

• Water temps stay between 78–84°F (25–29°C) year-round

• A mix of world-class reef breaks and mellow beach breaks

• Thriving surf culture with easy access to surf schools, rentals, and guides

Whether you’re chasing barrels at Gas Chambers or long cruisy rights at Domes, Puerto Rico delivers some of the best waves in the Atlantic.

 

 

When to surf Puerto Rico

Hurricane Season (August–November)

The surf season kicks off with hurricane-generated swells that begin arriving in late August. These storms send powerful surf to the north and west coasts. You can expect punchy waves and fewer crowds early in the season.

Prime Season (December–April)

This is the most consistent time of year. Powerful winter swells from North Atlantic storms hit Puerto Rico’s exposed reefs and points, lighting up world-class breaks like Middles and Tres Palmas. Perfect for advanced surfers, but there are beginner options too.

Off-Season (May–July)

Waves are smaller and less consistent, but perfect for beginners. It’s also a great time to enjoy snorkeling, hiking, and other Caribbean activities on your lay days.

 

 

Where to stay in Puerto Rico

The best place to stay on a surf trip to Puerto Rico is Rincon, a little surf town on the island’s west coast. There are a lot of surf spots in the area as well as great accommodation.

 

Browse our interactive map to find your dream place to stay on a surf trip to Puerto Rico!

 

Best surf hotels in Rincon

Casa Islena Inn

Rincon of the seas

Coconut Palms inn

 

 

Surf spots in Puerto Rico

Playa Aviones

Not too far from San Juan is this beautiful and consistent surf spot offering waves for all skill levels over a forgiving reef. This place tends to get crowded so everyone must respect other surfers and locals.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Beginner, intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : N
• Optimal wind direction : S
   
   

Middles

One of Puerto Rico’s best surf spot. A challenging, fast and barreling wave that breaks over a few rocks. Located on the north western part of the island, Middles is breaking pretty consistently on a NE swell.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Sand and reef
• Best tide : Low to mid
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : S
   
   

Tres Palmas

Beautiful reef break offering both lefts and rights but isn’t so consistent. This surf spot is pretty powerful and resembles the Hawaiian type of waves.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : High
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : E
   
   
   

Gas Chambers

Inconsistent barreling wave that works on a large NW swell. When it is on, it is a shallow and dangerous spot to be kept for advanced surfers only

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef and sand
• Best tide : High
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : E
   
   

Domes

A nice point break that tends to get crowded. Works well on a NW swell and produces fun rights.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Pebbles
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : SE

 

 

Getting there

The main international airport is in San Juan, which is where most flights will land. From there, you can either stick to the north side beaches or move to the west side of Puerto Rico where Rincon is located.

 

 

Safety/things to know

• -Hurricane season runs from August to November. Some of them might not just bring waves, but also hit the island. Stay safe.
• -Most waves in Puerto Rico break over reef. Be careful and bring a good first aid kit.
• -Localism can be an issue. Always respect local surfers.