I lived in Puerto Rico twice for a total of 7 years leaving last in 2003. I taught my son how to surf there but he was still just barely learning how to drop in on little waves. Well he is 20 now and is better than I am and we are both wanting to come back for a father son surf trip. We've been to Jobos, Wilderness, and Surfers Beach and others in that area. Would like to know if Rincon, which for some reason we never went, is a better option for us though I know they are relatively close and we will be. Maybe because we lived on the other side of the island and those were the places we knew. My question is this, I know the surf season is from August until April but when is the best time, in between those months, to come for consistant waiste/chest to maybe head high surf and what location for those size waves. I know predicting surf is a crap shoot but I'd like to buy my tickets and set everything up soon with the best possibility of waves when we get there (I never paid attention to the calendar when I lived there). I would prefer a time when you don't actually need a wet suit. I hoping that I will run into some people I met there on the beach in the past! Love the island, loved the people I met there! Thank you for your help!! Geno (Gene)
You're likely to get consistent surf from December all the way through to April, January/February probably being the best. Sometimes, like this year, you'll get great swells as early as November, but going that early is kind of pushing it. If you do end up going January or February, you will most likely get decent surf regardless. Those two months also get the biggest swells, so you're most likely to score then. The water is super warm throughout the year so you aren't ever really going to need a wetsuit. A top or something might be nice in the evening though, when the trade winds really pick up. Usually, if it's breaking in Aguadilla or Isabela, its going to be good in Rincon too. The most popular breaks in Rincon are Marias, Domes, Sandy Beach, and if it's big enough Tres Palmas. Marias and Domes face more to the west, so its basically off shore all day. I would personally recommend Marias just because its so easily accessible and it isn't as competitive as Domes. You can literally see it from the road, and there's a parking lot with a surf shop and a bar. They run surf lessons there too so instructors can be a good resource for where to paddle out, spots on the reef to avoid, etc. Sandy Beach and the other more northern facing waves are usually blown out by 11 or 12, so if you want to surf there get on it early. If it does happen to get really big, and you feel comfortable in large surf, head to either Marias or Tres Palmas. Tres Palmas is the island's most popular big wave spot, if you google it you can find some pretty crazy videos. Unless you and your son are experienced in larger surf, I wouldn't recommend trying to surf on super massive days, but watching from the beach or the channel can be fun. Be mindful around the locals, as at every surf spot. Just stay out of their way and don't drop in on anyone, and you should be fine. I'm not saying they're all super hostile and dangerous, but there are always a few guys in the lineup you just do not want to piss off, especially when its heavy. Also, watch out for the body boarders. They will drop in on you, and there is nothing you can do about it. You probably know this already, but its not like most beaches where the surfers run things in the lineup; a lot of these guys are super pissed off by "tourists" and will break your face if you mess with them. It's not as bad as Gas Chambers, but you should still be careful. If you wanted to, you could probably stay in Aguadilla or wherever you used to live, and just spend a day in Rincon. Its about a 20-30 minute drive depending on where you are, but not something you would want to do every day. If you have friends up in Aguadilla I would recommend just staying there and visiting, as both parts of the island are pretty much equally consistent.
My introduction Great information guysvery much appreciated in particular with what i am endeavoring to do. Does anyone have more reading? Where's a good option to start here on this website?
Gene, I own a brand new condo check out www.vrbo.com #214129 it is in Rincon perfect location, I guarantee the lowest rate in the area!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have been going there since the 70's and can point you in the right direction. James 516 633-6861
