10 Beaches with the Clearest Water in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, the heart and soul of the Caribbean, is a beautiful tropical island located near the Dominican Republic and north of South America. This tiny island offers history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of San Juan to the island’s gorgeous beaches, there’s no shortage of serenity and vibrancy. Puerto Rico offers a lovely blend of old-world charm and coastal allure. You can immerse yourself in the beats of salsa music, fall in love with the island’s delectable cuisine, and explore the historic sites. Most importantly, you can bury your toes in the sand and gaze upon crystal-clear beaches. If you’re a beach enthusiast seeking a tropical getaway, check out these 10 beaches with the clearest water in Puerto Rico. You’ll be ready to dive in!

1. Playa Caracas

Located in the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge is Playa Caracas. Also known as Red Beach, Playa Caracas has golden sand and turquoise waters. Until 2003, this beach was occupied by the U.S. Navy. Now, Playa Caracas is a family-friendly beach, and since gaining popularity, it’s quickly become a local favorite. This beach has gorgeous rock formations and lush flora, so there’s no shortage of great photo-ops!

2. Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach is situated on Culebra Island, and it’s often ranked one of the top beaches in PR. This beach boasts powdery white sand and incredibly clear turquoise waters. The waters are warm, the sand is soft, and the tropical fish are lovely. You might even be lucky enough to meet Godzilla, a large grouper who likes to say hello to snorkelers. Sometimes turtles also like to be out and about with swimmers.

3. Resaca Beach

Flamenco Beach is quite popular, but if you’re up for a hike, you can walk 30 minutes further to nearby Resaca Beach, which is more secluded. This beach is a turtle nesting site protected and monitored by the Fish & Wildlife Service. Resaca Beach is extremely isolated, as it does require a fairly substantial hike to get there. However, if you can make the trek, you’ll more than likely have the beach all to yourself. With lush greenery, sandy hillsides, and golden sand, Resaca Beach is the perfect place to experience clear coastal waters in Puerto Rico.

4. Playa Buyé

Playa Buyé is located in Cabo Rojo, an adorable beach town in Puerto Rico. This beach is located on the west coast and can be found right at the southwest tip of the island. Playa Buyé has lovely scenery, perfect waves, and crystal-clear waters. This beach is fairly secluded and has an open-air restaurant that offers spectacular views of the blue waters. Be sure to catch the sunset here!

5. Playa Sucia

Playa Sucia, also called the dirty beach, is the farthest thing from dirty. This beautiful beach is smaller compared to other beaches nearby, but it offers panoramic views of the sea and its pristine waters. Playa Sucia remains a hidden gem. 

6. Cayo Icacos

This tiny island is located off the coast of Fajardo and can be accessed via boat. Cayo Icacos boasts the clearest waters on the east coast of Puerto Rico, and it has deserted island vibes—in the best way possible. You can go snorkeling, paddleboarding, or swimming. Even better, you can check out the abandoned pier and experience this gorgeous remote island without the crowds.

7. Playo Pastillo

Playo Pastillo is located in Isabela, a northern town in Puerto Rico. There are no facilities on this beach, so you’ll need to come prepared for your beach day. However, once you arrive, you’ll experience beautiful turquoise waves, spectacular cliffs and hollows, and palm tree-lined-paths. Although this beach isn’t recommended for swimming, it’s a great place to sunbathe or read a book. 

8. Peña Blanca

This beach is located in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico and is unlike any other beach on the island, with its white karst walls that lend to its distinctive landscape. These walls help shape the cave-like spaces around the beach, which make great places to hang a hammock or take a break from the sun. If you’re into surfing, the winter months are the best time to enjoy these crystal-clear waters.

9. La Poza del Obispo

Surrounded by limestone rocks that create a protective barrier from the rising tides, La Poza del Obispo is a charming beach in Arecibo. The beach is home to a historic lighthouse, and it’s the perfect hidden oasis. 

10. Isla Verde

The most popular beach in San Juan is Isla Verde. It’s located near one of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, which makes it a prime location for tourists. Likewise, it’s also located near the San Juan Airport. Isla Verde is an award-winning beach located in the heart of San Juan, and the beach’s golden shores are surrounded by palm trees, hotels, and restaurants. While Isla Verde might be a little busier than other beaches in Puerto Rico, it has the convenience of the city and the views of a gorgeous beach town.

Dive Into Puerto Rico’s Clear Waters

Puerto Rico, an incredible Caribbean island, is home to scenic beachside towns and crystal-clear waters. No matter your water activity of choice, you’ll be sure to experience the wonder of nature and take in the scenic beauty, all while experiencing the crystal-clear waters of Puerto Rico.

Summary of 10 Beaches with the Clearest Water in Puerto Rico

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Javier_Art_Photography