16 Best Sights in Rincón and the Porta del Sol, Puerto Rico

The crescent-shape strand is the most secluded, and beautiful, of the area's beaches. It's commonly referred to as "Playa Sucia" (Dirty Beach) by locals, because of the blankets of seaweed that drift to shore during winter months. The label is rather unfitting for the white sand and turquoise waters that mark the island's southwestern corner, reachable by way of a dirt road lined with mangroves. Amenities: none. Best for: hiking; swimming.

The long stretch of sand at this beach off Route 101 is a favorite with islanders, especially on weekends. This is a Blue Flag beach, meaning it is recognized for its adherence to high environmental standards. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: swimming.

Families enjoy the tranquil waters, playground, and shelters for seaside picnics. The beach is within walking distance to the center of town. Amenities: parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: sunset; swimming.

Named for the eerie green domes on a nearby power plant, this beach is extremely popular with surfers, with its consistent rights and occasional lefts. On a good surf day, arrive early if you want a spot on the sand. Though not recommended for swimmers because of the rocks, it's a great whale-watching spot in winter. The dirt road leading to the parking area is rather steep and difficult to exit. There are no facilities here, so plan accordingly. Amenities: none. Best for: surfing.

This great beach draws large crowds on weekends to its rustic waterfront eateries and calm waters. You can rent small boats and kayaks here. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: partiers; swimming.

This surf spot, south of Domes, can get crowded when the waves are high. When waves are small, it serves as a schoolhouse for surf lessons. It's popular with locals, as much for its breaks as for its proximity to the Calypso Café. To get here, look for the street sign reading "Surfer crossing." Amenities: none. Best for: sunsets; surfing.

Crystal clear water laps this white-sand beach that's lined with swaying palm and almond trees for shade. It's a bit hard to find and very crowded on weekends, so visit during the week or during the off-season. In high season, some kiosks with food and drink are open. Parking along Calle Buyé is free, but you'll pay $3 to park at the Buyé Beach Resort. Amenities: parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: swimming; walking.

The long stretch of yellow sand in front of Villa Cofresí is considered one of the best swimming beaches in Rincón. It's also perfect for relaxing and stand-up paddleboarding. Amenities: none. Best for: swimming; walking.

Named for the rescue boats used when nearby Ramey Air Force Base was in operation, this beach has soft, sugary sand, water as smooth as glass, and the sort of colorful fishing boats pictured on postcards. A food stand serves the catch of the day with cold beer. Amenities: food and drink; parking (free); showers; toilets. Best for: partiers; snorkeling; swimming.

Near this beach is El Tunel de Guajataca, part of an old tunnel used by a train that once connected the towns of Isabela and Quebradillas and transported sugarcane. Just before El Tunel is El Merendero de Guajataca, a picnic area with cliff-side trails. This is not a swimming beach due to strong currents, but it's a great place for walks and photo ops. Amenities: none. Best for: walking.

Just north of Playa Crashboat, this beach with big sucking barrels is favored by surfers. There is limited parking and no beach area, just coral. On a good surf day, this is where you come to watch the pros charge the waves. Amenities: none. Best for: surfing.

Famous for surfing, this beach also has a couple of restaurants with oceanfront decks. Down the road, the gorgeous dunes and long stretches of golden sand are great for walks or runs. Route 466 runs parallel to the shore, and there's parking and beach access along the way.  Next to the large rock formation is a strong riptide that drags people out to sea. The water is only about thigh high, but when the wind changes, the current is like a raging river. There are no lifeguards, no signs, and no roped-off areas, so be sure to stay close to shore. Amenities: none. Best for: partiers; surfing; walking.

Not far from Playa Jobos, this is a beautiful beach for swimming; it has a protected natural pool perfect for children. Amenities: none. Best for: swimming; walking.

Known for its surfing and horseback riding, this secluded spot also has an area called the Blue Hole that's popular with divers. It is east of the Villa Montaña beach resort, where you can stop in for a great meal at the oceanfront restaurant, The Eclipse. Amenities: none. Best for: snorkeling; surfing; swimming; walking.

This undeveloped beach near La Ponderosa ruins is recommended only for experienced surfers, as it can have dangerous breaks. The long rights, and difficulty in reaching the break, make it popular with locals. To get here, take Route 107 through the Punta Borinquen Golf Club. Amenities: none. Best for: surfing.

This beach, which takes its name from the mysterious concrete steps at the water's edge, is home to the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve. It's a good place to find sea glass; on calm days, it's also an excellent snorkeling spot. At other times, the waves can be huge. Indeed, on a handful of days each year, the waters deliver epic rides that draw surfers from around the globe. A small food truck serves coconut water, fish tacos, empanadas, and other treats. The beach is hard to find—look for the turnoff at a whale-shape sign reading "Playa Escalera." Amenities: none. Best for: snorkeling; sunsets.