Palm trees on the beach, Luquillo Beach, Puerto Rico

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Playa Luquillo

Top choice in El Yunque & East Coast


Along with its must-visit kioskos, Luquillo is synonymous with its fabulous – and hugely popular – beach. Set on a calm, northwest-facing bay and protected from the easterly trade winds, this arc of powder-soft sand is shaded by coco palms. And its raft of facilities and gentle slope into crystal-clear water make it perfect for families. Don't expect to have it to yourself, especially on weekends and holidays; just order a piña colada, enjoy the salsa rhythms and soak up the atmosphere.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby El Yunque & East Coast attractions

1. Playa La Pared

1.03 MILES

A block from Luquillo’s plaza, this is the place to catch a surf break, admire the sculpture by local artist Carlos Guzmán, grab a bite from a gourmet…

2. Las Paylas

3.04 MILES

This series of natural waterslides in El Yunque's foothills is popular with locals, especially on weekends. The water bounces over boulders, ending in a…

3. La Coca Falls

5.2 MILES

The first spectacular natural feature you see as Hwy 191 climbs south toward the forest peaks is an 85ft cascade as the stream tumbles from a precipice to…

4. Yokahú Tower

5.5 MILES

This 65ft, Moorish-looking stone tower was built as a lookout in 1962. It's the first good spot for vistas of the islands to the east, but there are…

5. Playa Seven Seas

6.24 MILES

On the southwestern shore of Las Cabezas' peninsula, Playa Seven Seas is a sheltered, palm-shaded, horseshoe-shaped public beach. Quiet at times, it gets…

6. La Mina Falls

6.26 MILES

At the time of research, La Mina Trail was closed for repair, due to reopen in 2021. Check the El Yunque National Forest website (www.fs.usda.gov/elyunque…

7. Cabezas de San Juan Reserva Natural

6.55 MILES

A nodule of land on Puerto Rico’s northeast tip, this Para La Naturaleza–run reserve protects the Laguna Grande bioluminescent bay, rare flora and fauna,…

8. Baño Grande & Baño de Oro

6.65 MILES

Baño Grande, a former swimming hole built during the Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps, lies across Hwy 191 from the Palo Colorado Information…

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