Puerto Rico’s beaches are consistently featured in articles that rank them as the best beaches in the world. While Playa Flamenco in Culebra can be breathtaking, take it from a local: the ferry can be a bit of a hassle. The island has many other beaches that are just as beautiful, and getting there is as easy as hopping in a car.
Dorado is one of the fastest-growing hot spots in Puerto Rico, and a big reason for that is its gorgeous beaches. So set that out-of-office notification on your Outlook, remind your boss about that PTO, and take a moment to ponder…
Exploring Dorado’s Best Beaches
1. Grande Beach – El Paraíso, sector El Único
If you’re an animal enthusiast, there’s no better spot for you than El Único. That’s because leatherback turtles can be spotted nesting and hatching there from March through July. Keep in mind: leatherbacks are considered a vulnerable species, so look, but don’t touch.
If water sports are more your speed, El Único is also a great surfing spot in the winter months. Just be cautious of riptides and undertow.
2. El Ojo del Buey
Getting its name from a rock formation that resembles nothing as much as an ox, El Ojo del Buey is less of a “chill out in the sun” spot and more of a sightseeing and hiking spot. This is owed to the somewhat rockier terrain of the bay.
The tide is usually pretty rough, so bathing isn’t normally recommended. This spot is better known for its underwater treasures. Snorkeling in a group tour with an experienced guide is the best way to enjoy these waters. It is also great for going on a short hike and trying to spot some endemic species.
3. Kikita Beach
This popular surfing spot boosts your adrenaline and takes your breath away with its beauty. There are two main ways to have a good time at Kikita. First, there’s surfing or chillin’ it out at the tide pools that form during July through October.
Kikita Surf Beach
Earlier in this article, we mentioned how El Único was a great surfing spot, but it’s definitely not the only one. As a matter of fact, Kikita has been home to several surfing contests. However, the optimal surfing conditions can make it difficult if you just want to take a dip in the water. Thankfully, Kikita is also home to…
La Pocita de Kikita
If you just want to chill out while the surfer in your life does their thing, Kikita Beach offers a tide pool with calmer waters for you to relax and enjoy the sea air. Be careful in the winter, though, as strong currents can still be something to keep on your radar.
4. Pocita Mameyal
Speaking of tide pools, if this is what floats your boat, Mameyal has got you covered. While the bottom is rocky, the water is nice and calm, so it’s still good for bathing and relaxing. Plus, a couple of gazebos are available for shade if the sun gets to be a bit hot.
5. Costa Dorada Beach
The man-made barrier in Costa Dorada makes it an artificial tide pool of sorts, giving it all the benefits you could expect from one: mainly shallow, calm water that’s great for a relaxing dip. Access to this beach would be through the Dorado del Mar community; just let the security guard know you’re heading to the beach. If you’re staying at Villa Merchan, you can easily access it.
Getting to Costa Dorada can be somewhat unconventional, but it’s like arriving at a safe haven. As soon as you reach the end of the little corridor between the Beach Villas and the Embassy that takes you there, the breeze will take all your worries away. This spot is excellent for children.
6. Dorado del Mar Beach
Dorado del Mar is known for its shallow and tranquil waters, perfect for families with small children. Peppered with trees that provide excellent shade when the sun is at its hottest, the spot is perfect for propping your feet up and unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. Also, if you have an itch (and the knowledge) to go sailing, this lovely beach has two boat ramps.
7. Balneario Manuel “Nolo” Morales
Quick hack when you visit Puerto Rico: If you see the word “balneario”, that beach will likely have lifeguards, a parking lot, showers, chair and umbrella rentals, restrooms, food stands… All the stuff you want for your beach day to be comfortable. All this is true for Balneario Nolo Morales as well. The water is usually very calm, and the terrain is soft and sandy rather than rocky. The downside is that these types of beaches tend to get crowded fast, especially on the weekends.
8. Sardinera Beach
Sardinera is located to the west of Nolo Morales. A pet-friendly beach, it is suitable for most seaside activities. The sandy terrain is great for relaxing and catching some rays. The water, while a bit choppy and more suited to activities such as kite surfing, is still great for swimming and bathing near the shore. There are no on-site amenities like lifeguards or restrooms, but there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby.
9. Punta Mameyes
This spot is an oasis after a long walk on soft sand. This beach is the peak (punta) after walking Sardinera Beach. It’s a private spot surrounded by nature. A dry coral reef encloses the ocean, sand, icacos, and palm trees decorate its surroundings.
It’s the perfect destination if you’re into long walks on the beach. The best way to get there is to park at the Manuel “Nolo” Morales public beach parking and walk towards the northwest side of the beach, all the way to the end. Once you reach its tranquil waters, you’ll feel instantly rewarded.
10. Dorado Reef Beach
Access to this one is a bit tricky. If you are feeling up to it, you can hike there from Playa Breñas in the neighboring town of Vega Alta and enjoy the gorgeous sights and crystalline water of Dorado Reef.
It’s important to visit when the tides are low. When the tides are high, this beautiful beach mostly disappears. It is a vivid reminder that we must do our best to slow global warming and protect the ocean.
Conclusion
While some beaches are more accessible than others, there is no doubt that Dorado has some of the best beaches you will ever see. With a diverse mix of terrains and calm and choppier waters, Dorado offers a beach experience that suits every preference.
If you can secure local lodging, you can use this article as a checklist to see all the spots discussed here and even discover some new places you can return to on future visits.
FAQ
Is Dorado worth visiting?
Absolutely! While this article focused on the beach-going experience, there are tons of things to do in Dorado. The restaurants, the golfing, the historical landmarks, and the family-friendly activities make for a well-rounded experience.
Is it safe to walk around Dorado?
It most definitely is. While no place is crime-free, Dorado’s crime rate is much lower than many other places. Just be sure to practice common sense, and you should be fine.
