Has anybody surfed around this area? I will be going in two weeks and there really isnt too much info on this areas surf. Are the locals bad? I've read a few places are known for car break ins, any places to avoid? Any advice is greatly appreciated? Or if anybody wants to help a bro out PM me, I will be surfing solo.
I haven't surfed in Arecibo, but I've seen some swells on the Northern side of the island. Not as consistent as the Western side, but you should be able to find some fun surf. Most of the areas in PR that I've been to are pretty easy to spot if its sketchy. Just try and avoid the more run down areas (especially parking your car) and you should be good. Regardless, though, don't leave any valuables in your car. Anywhere in PR thieves will target rental cars just because the odds are better that something is inside. We had our window smashed out in a nicer, well lit, populated area in San Juan a couple years ago even though we had absolutely nothing in the car. Most tourists are dumb and an easy target so as long as you think about it you'll be good. Have fun man, I miss PR gotta get back down there soon!
I have a close friend who has lived in PR for 25 years. He took me to a magical spot there. HOWEVER his van has been kitted out with welded diamond plate boxes long enough for boards and equipment that can not be broken into without hours and hours of effort and he still didn't stop to surf a couple places in Arecibo. Enjoy but keep an eye out. It is a very sketchy area of the island.
Do a search there's other posts on here about Puerto Rico. North side of the island= less tourists, visiting surfers and sometimes quality or world class waves. Like some others mentioned it's going to be a little sketchy and I would recommend having a game plan on spots you want to check before just driving around that part of the island in circles looking for waves. There is information out there on spots around that area available you just need to look around online. Watch out for those sea urchins, speak a little Spanish, hide your wallet and smile a lot. You'll have fun.
