Free Things to do in PR, West Side

The west side of Puerto Rico offers expansive beaches and a laid back vibe. It tends to be a bit drier than the North and East sides of the island. The west side lends more to outdoor experiences rather than museums and town squares. 

Specialty

Whale watching from Faro Punta Higüeras, January through late March is the best time to see migrating humpback whales. Also a great place to watch sunsets. The lighthouse is closed but the grounds are free. rincon.gov.pr

PR-4413, Aguada

‍Beaches

In the winter, watch world class surfers catch waves in Rincón. Late fall to early spring head to Domes, Marias or Tres Palmas to watch surfers carve waves. 

Balneario de Rincón has free parking, toilets, outdoor showers, picnic areas and a playground. It is walking distance to the town center if you want to make a day of it and walk to lunch or a market. A great beach for swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding and watching sunsets. 

C. Cambija, Rincon

Playa Sucia is worth the trip, but down a long bumpy road best for four wheel drive. The beach is in a gorgeous protected bay but can get lots of sargassum in late spring and early summer, hence the name. Recommend packing a picnic, plenty of water, sunscreen, shade and/or hats as amenities are non existent. 

At the end of PR-301, Cabo Rojo

Hiking

Mirador Salinas de Cabo Rojo observation tower is free, right next to the road and worth a stop to climb the tower and view the flats surrounding the area. The visitors center nearby is not free but worth a visit if you have time. www.cpsai.org 

Open Thursday-Sunday 8:30AM-4:00 PM. 

PR-301 Pole Ojea, Cabo Rojo

Faro Los Morillos - the grounds are free and you can enter the historic lighthouse built in 1882 and get a glimpse of its history through the many pictures and informational signage on site. The views from the lighthouse are beautiful and worth it. Make sure to bring hats and water as it is often hot and dry. The lighthouse is open Wednesday through Sunday 9:00 AM-5:30 PM. Check hours and make sure it’s open before you go at www.caborojopr.net 

PR-301, Boquerón, Cabo Rojo

Monte Pirata MTB, hike and Ecological park with about 13.4 km/8.3 miles of well maintained trails in Cabo Rojo. Be aware that trails are shared with bikers and are dog friendly. Numerous abandoned buildings and some beach views. Open 5 AM-7PM every day. 

Carr. 102 km 8.6 Int Barrio, Cabo Rojo

Survival Trail, Aguadilla is a 3.5 km/2.2 miles out and back hike to caves and the beach. Hiking shoes are recommended as the terrain is rocky and uneven at times, and be sure to pack hats, sunscreen and water. It’s a popular trail and can get busy, but with these views you’ll see why. Maleza Baja, Aguadilla 

Paseo Lineal, Isabela is a 14.3 km/8.9 mile out and back trail for walking, jogging or riding bikes. The terrain is flat, easy and has plenty of beach access. It is a partial wooden boardwalk and paved asphalt path. There is very little shade so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen and pack water. The trail is accessed on PR-466 in Isabela.

Swimming Holes or Charcos

El Último Brinco is just a 5 minute walk off the road. Small waterfall and swimming hole which may not be swimmable depending on time of year. This one is free and doesn’t cost anything to pull over to the side of the road and explore. 

PR- 411 Rincon