The beautiful town of Rincon on the Northwestern Coast of Puerto Rico is famous for its picturesque sunsets and miles of beaches and is known as the surfing capital of the Caribbean. We often come for a winter getaway, as it’s usually the warmest spot in all of the USA. That means we can swim and enjoy the sun while others are shoveling snow or at least wearing sweaters… even in Florida.
We usually rent a car and take the thirty-minute peaceful drive from the Aguadilla Borinquen Airport. Rincon Beach Resort and The Horned Dorset are the two spots we return to often, and we have a few friends that rent apartments nearby for one to three month each year—that’s living.
PLAY
↑ Beaches
When we vacation the main draw are usually the beaches. Since hurricane Maria, there have been changes to some beaches, so if beaches are really your thing just reach out and ask your hotel or inn how their beaches are. But most public beaches are still there and are as lovely as ever!
↑ Surfing
Surrounded by miles of pristine beaches, Rincon is a hot spot for local and visiting surfers from around the world. Over the years this town has attracted many high-profile surfing competitions and is known worldwide for its 20′ winter waves, and for having the most prominent surf community in the Caribbean.
↑ Diving & Snorkeling
Rincon boasts calm waters around its south beaches, making it the ideal spot for a snorkeling or scuba excursion. With good visibility, brilliant shades of blue, and a thriving population of sea life, Rincon is truly ideal for anyone looking to spend some time under water.
↑ Horseback Riding
Whether you’re looking for a romantic day on the beach or a family adventure, horseback riding in Rincon is an unforgettable experience. Puerto Ricans are known for their horses (it’s not unusual to see a local riding bareback on the side of the road) and the Puerto Rican horse, paso fino, is the method of transport for many locals. We really like Pintos R Us.
STAY
Accommodations
↑ Horned Dorset Primavera
The Horned Dorset Primavera is a stunning boutique hotel on the shores of Rincon. Built in a Moroccan/Caribbean theme, the king suites have an enormous marble bathroom with walk-in jet shower and tub, secondary bathroom, kitchenette, living room, and personal plunge pool. The hotel has two main public pools, a gym, yoga pavilion, library, lounge, bar and a fine French-Caribbean restaurant, The Chateau Rose, that shouldn’t be missed. Great spot if you want to feel a bit like royalty.
EAT
Locally Made & Grown
Wherever you go you can find beautiful fresh fruit and veggie stands along the roads. If you want to be blown away by the variety and diversity of locally grown foods and hand-made products don’t miss the Farmer’s Market! Come for fresh local produce, herbs, art, and crafts.
Rincon Farmer’s Market
1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays of the month at 9am in the Rincon Town Plaza
Wining and Dining
No matter where you stay in Rincon, there are delicious restaurants and beach bars just a short while away! It’s always so much fun to try a new restaurant or roadside truck, and the food has never disappointed.
Here are some of our favorites when in the area:
↑ Carta Buena
Carta Buena is a fixed location food truck serving delicious food, smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and amazing coffee in their own organic gardens. They grow their own fruits and vegetables or source from local farmers to keep it all super fresh.
↑ The English Rose
With amazing views of Rincon and a delicious breakfast cooked by their resident chef and owner, the restaurant at The English Rose Bed & Breakfast is a dining experience that should not be missed. Nestled in the hills of Ensenada with breathtaking views of the Caribbean sea we never leave the area with at least one or more stops to this hidden gem. Do try one of their eggs benedict options, housemade bread and sausages, with fresh squeezed orange juice! Can’t get better than this.
↑ La Copa Llena
La Copa Llena at The Black Eagle offers a visually stunning oceanfront dining experience of casual elegance, progressive cuisine, delicious cocktails, wine and craft beer, along with breathtaking Rincon sunsets.
↑ Pool Bar Sushi
If you need American burgers with a Caribbean twist, this is your spot. Kahuna Burger Bar has delicious burgers, wings, fries, beers, and jalapeno margaritas and is a great and lively spot to hang out after the beach or surfing.
↑ Kahuna Burger Bar and Grill at Casa Verde
If you need American burgers with a Caribbean twist, this is your spot. Kahuna Burger Bar has delicious burgers, wings, fries, beers, and jalapeno margaritas and is a great and lively spot to hang out after the beach or surfing.
↑ Local Food Stands and Trucks
The best place to go for local food are the local food trucks or restaurants that are definitely not catering to the tourists. There we tasted traditional Puerto Rican food just like abuela would make. The best finds are always just outside of our comfort zone.
Best Spots to Watch the Sunset
There’s a reason why Rincon, Puerto Rico has been unofficially dubbed “the town of beautiful sunsets”. Nestled along the west coast of Puerto Rico, Rincon boasts clear night skies, providing an excellent canvas for breathtaking interplays of color. Each evening, as the sun dips low on the horizon, the sky glows with an explosion of red, orange, and gold hues.
For prime sunset viewing opportunities, visit a spot that faces west. Below are some of the first-rate locations for enjoying the dramatic twilights:
Beaches at Sunset:
Almost every beach in Rincon offers spectacular sunset views. Some of the most popular coasts include Rincon Point, Dogman’s Beach, Tres Palmas, Sandy Beach, Indicators Beach, Playa Domes, Maria’s Beach, and Spanish Wall Beach. A network of coastal trails allows beachcombers to explore the sandy dunes and find their own private spot to take in the breathtaking evening sky.
Isla Desecheo:
A popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers, this tiny island is nestled along the western coast of Puerto Rico. With the Rincon Lighthouse in the distance, Desecheo provides postcard-worthy views of the area.
Sunset cruises:
Hop on a chartered sailboat to experience Rincon’s famous sunsets from the water. There are several charter services in town, including Katarina Sail Charters and Rincon Capital Water Sports. Each vessel is manned by a local sailor who can provide an insider’s insight into the natural splendors of Rincon.
El Faro Park:
Located near the historic lighthouse, this scenic park is a great place to take in Rincon’s stunning sunsets, as well as the beautiful landscapes of Puerto Rico’s western coast. El Faro Park is located just off Route 413.
The Rincon Lighthouse (El Faro de Punta Higuero, in Spanish) is situated on a bluff surrounded by El Faro Park and offers a setting where you can relax and have great views of surfers, Desecheo Island, the sunset, and even whales (in season).
People and Culture
Puerto Rico is a Commonwealth of the United States, which means its residents are U.S. citizens. Although the people of Rincon are Americans, most of them refer to themselves as “Puertorriqueños,” which is Spanish for “Puerto Ricans.”
The town of Rincon reflects Puerto Rico’s rich diversity, influenced by a blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean natives. There are also many people from the mainland of the USA that have made the town their permanent home. The primary language in Rincon is Spanish, although most citizens understand English and about half of them speak it fluently.
Music is a big part of the culture and you can see some great entertainment in town or at local restaurants.
Rincon’s atmosphere is based largely on its surfing culture. Friendly, relaxed and open-minded, Rincon is the perfect spot for those who are seeking a temporary getaway or a permanent place in paradise.