Aguadilla

The surf coast at Puerto Rico's northwest corner. Dive and snorkel off the old pier at Crash Boat Beach, surf at Playa Hobos, and look out over cliffs from the old lighthouse ruins at Punta Borinquen.

Aguadilla lies on the northwest corner of Puerto Rico. Together with Isabela to the east and Rincón to the south, it forms the island's famous 'surf coast.' The city spreads around a bay. Its old town has the San Carlos Borromeo Church and a seaside promenade. North of the city, the former Ramey Air Force Base area holds the best of the coastline. Here you'll find diving and snorkeling off the old pier at Crash Boat Beach, the small cove of Peña Blanca, the old lighthouse ruins at Punta Borinquen, the wild reef coast of Wilderness Beach, and Survivor Beach, which is reachable only on foot. Heading east into Isabela, Shacks Beach offers snorkeling and horseback riding. Playa Hobos has surfing and beach bars, and Montones Lagoon is good for swimming. Beyond these, the Guajataca Tunnel and cliff-top lookouts await. Best seasons: November through March is surf season on the north shore, with big swells, though many beaches are unsafe for swimming. April through August has calm seas, ideal for snorkeling, cliff diving and swimming. June through November is hurricane season, so keep an eye on the weather. Getting there: Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) has nonstop flights from the U.S. mainland. From San Juan's airport, it's about a 2-hour drive. Public transport is very limited, so renting a car is essential. Plan 2–4 days. Combine it with Rincón and Mayagüez to the south for a west-coast trip. Note: currents on the north shore are strong, so check the surf before entering the water in winter. Do not leave valuables in your car at remote beaches.

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