La Playuela – A Picture-perfect Beach
We were at the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse a couple weeks ago and the panoramic views observation platform on top of the lighthouse were simply magnificent.
As I spun around, soaking it all in, I turned toward the north … and there it was … a white crescent beach with bright blue water. I was surprised to see one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen in Puerto Rico.
Once we saw it, we knew we had to get over to explore it. We asked the lighthouse ranger about the beach and, he said lovingly, "Oh – the jacuzzi? That is La Playuela". Luckily there are trails that lead right to the beach from the lighthouse.
Lunch On the Beach & A Quick Swim
When we got to La Playuela, there were only 3 other small groups of people on the beach, so we had our choice of spots to set-up. We chose a nice spot under a tree with a little shade. We spread out our beach blanket, had our picnic lunch (that we had packed at home) and then took a short swim. The water was warm and the calm, since the beach is in a large, protected crescent. The sand was white and fine. The water had seagrass/seaweed along the surf line toward the ends of the beach, but the bottom was clean and soft toward the middle of the beach.
The views from the beach are spectacular — the lighthouse on the cliff to the right and more cliffs to the left. The water isn’t crystal clear — it has fine sand particles in it, making it turbid. But it is so nice. And the water here has high salinity, so your skin feels so soft when you come out! I have read that sometimes there are waves at this beach, but the day we went it was almost flat.
There are trails all around the beach, so you can walk around and find more great views. But be aware — it is hot, sunny and the limestone rocks are sharp. So take water, sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes.
This beach is a favorite for off-the-beaten path locals and tourists alike. I imagine that this beach could get pretty busy on weekends and during the summer, just because it is so pretty there. Some people and travel guides incorrectly refer to this beach as Playa Sucia, which the ranger said was further inland, on the Bahia Sucia, in the nature reserve.
The Details
Both this beach and parking are free.
The beach is open during daylight hours.
There are no services (restrooms, showers, food, etc.) at this beach. There are no lifeguards, swim at your own risk.
This is a remote beach. To get there, drive to the end of Route 301. You will eventually come to the parking for the lighthouse — at that point you want to take the road to the left. This road has huge pot hole/craters, so only drive as far as you feel comfortable then park and walk to the rest of the way to the beach.
Use this map to locate places mentioned in this article. You can click on a placemark to view the GPS coordinates for that place.
I think that it is necessary to add in your description, that on day sthat th ebeach is pretty busy (nochede san juan, holy week, or a day off in the UPR-mayaguez) DRNA limits the entrance of vehicles into the close parking area, so any people that want to go to the beach after DRNA has arrived will have to park near the salt mountainsand walk to the beach (about 1.5 miles). Also, even though there ar eno bathrooms in the beach, you can suggest that they can use the baths in the lightouse, which is nearby.
Comment by Joel HCM on January 2nd, 2011 at 8:15 pmAs you mentioned before that there are sometimes waves, I have seen ocasionally people surfing in the far part of the beach. Finally, I think that you should encourage people to go to the left saude f the cliffs, because it is spectacular, prettier than the lighthouse side.
One of my favorite places to go in Puerto Rico. The combination of a beautiful beach, remoteness, together with the spectacular views from the jagged 200′ cliffs, and many walking/hiking trails is a great way to spend the day. If it’s a sunny day, definitely be prepared to protect yourself from the sun. On a clear day it’s definitely hot, but you always have the option to take a dip and cool off. Definitely bring a camera, too, cause the views from the cliffs surrounding the lighthouse should be captured in photo. They make great pictures.
Comment by Josh on August 26th, 2011 at 1:40 pmDRNA do closes beach after it reaches maximum capacity of 60 cars. After that you have to walk from Bahia Hotel, a good 2 mile walk to beach…when carrying chairs, coolers, bags, kids…it seems way longer! Be prepare since is salt flat area: muddy and smelly. However, this is done to protect area and walk it well worth it. Do agree with previous comment: view from other side of beach (opposite to lighthouse) is amazing as well. Shaded areas are part of protected area. So unless you are going for sunbathing…be prepare to be sun blazed!
Comment by Heidi F on April 18th, 2012 at 8:47 amInteresting, I’ve always known this beach as Playa Sucia. I’ve been to this beach several times, it is my favorite corner in the world. A great tiome to go is during Thanksgiving week, as you pretty much have the beach to yourself.
Comment by Alex on November 9th, 2012 at 12:15 pmLOVED this beach! Thank you! Your website is so handy! We have lived here for months now and I think I check your site as a reference daily. I love how you provide even the smallest of helpful detail. The directions in GPS coordinates are definitely helpful as we found out real quick how useless those devices can be here. I especially love your honest opinion as to whether or not you like a certain destination or not. Thanks again, this site has been our savior.
Susanne Dorado, PR
Comment by Suzy on November 12th, 2012 at 2:35 pm