Puerto Rico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The island boasts many miles of stunning white sand skirting sparkling turquoise water, with wonderful year 'round weather. The beaches range from crowded "where-it's-at" shoreline to the gentle surf at quiet secluded coves to the mighty waves of the surfing areas. Whether you're seeking a romantic spot for two or a place to take the whole family, you'll find it in Puerto Rico!

PLAYA SUN BAY
Located on the southwest coast, Playa Sun Bay offers a mile of unique pink sands and verdant tropical foliage. Because of its geological location, the waters here are calm and crystal clear. Views from the beach include the stunning Mount Pirata. The shallows here are great for snorkeling and swimming, and you can even camp on the beach. Pack a picnic and bring your own water, since the nearest restaurant is over 20 miles away.

OCEAN PARK
This beach is found on the northwest coast and is a good middle-of-the-road location - not secluded, but not too crowded, either. This is typically a hangout for singles and not the island's best beach for families. Hotels and resorts line the shore, and there are several restaurants nearby. The beach is wide - a great place for sunning. Folks come here to see and to be seen. Rental outfits provide beach supplies and water toys.

CRASHBOAT BEACH
This is one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire island. Located on the northwest coast, Crashboat earned its name because of its large waves and powerful currents. The beach is away from the major roads, which allows it some seclusion. Several eateries are nearby. This is not a good swim beach for beginners, but the shelling and scenery are both excellent. The offshore depths make it a favorite with scuba divers.

FLAMENCO BEACH
Located a few miles off the western coast of Puerto Rico, Flamenco is a quiet beach, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city noise. No motorized water sports are allowed, adding to the serenity. The sugar-white sands and clear sapphire waters are great for swimming. Shallow coral reefs here are home to a large population of brightly colored tropical fish, and the area is part of a marine wildlife reserve. Bring your snorkel gear and pack a lunch - there are no nearby restaurants.

CABO ROJO
Cabo Rojo, on the southwest of the island, has several out-of-the-way pristine beaches, all providing stunning views in a friendly atmosphere. You'll meet folks here from all walks of life, young and old. A couple of restaurants serving mouth-watering fresh seafood are within 10 miles, and nearby quaint little shops offer many unique items.

LUQUILLO BEACH
Located on the northeast coast, Luquillo is a half moon of honey-colored sand and clear blue water. Offshore reefs protect it from the brunt of the Atlantic waves, so the calm surf is great for swimming and snorkeling. This is a popular beach, and equipment for water sports is available at several rental outfits. Beach vendors and concession stands sell all kinds of local foods, so you won't have to leave the sand in search of lunch or snacks. This beach gives visitors to the island a real taste for the local color, and its special program for disabled visitors allows them to enjoy the water, too.

ISLA VERDE
Also located on the northeast part of Puerto Rico, Isla Verde offers miles of wide sandy shores, shadowed by a row of popular resorts. The shore is usually pretty quiet during the week. A popular spot for water skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, swimming, and wave running, the action fires up on the weekends. The soft sand provides a great area for volleyball, frisbee, or just soaking up the sun. Several local resturants will satisfy your appetite after a day of fun in the sun.

CONDADO BEACH
Located on Puerto Rico's western shore, Condado's waters are calm and inviting. Adjacent to the beach is a lagoon, perfect for water sports of all kinds. Enjoy the warm sun on the beach, or escape the rays under a swaying palm. Several restaurants are nearby, and it's a short drive into the town of Condado, where you can do some wonderful sightseeing. The beach is safe during the daylight hours, but extra care should be taken after dark.

PLAYA de PONCE
On the southern coast, the Caribbean side of the island, you'll find Playa de Ponce. The waters here are calm and are a beautiful shade of clear bluish-green. All kinds of water sports abound here, and the number of beach goers varies with the season and the day of the week. Several restaurants are nearby, as are museums, national forests, and the historical site of La Ceiba. Or take a walk into Ponce, Puerto Rico's second-largest city.

BOQUERON BEACH
Another Caribbean beach, Boqueron is located on the southeast coast. Its clear waters are a playground for water sports, and the mile-long white beach is perfect for sunbathing and a game of volleyball. Fascinating little shops line the beach, offering a large variety of local foods. You can rent a bike for some sightseeing on wheels, or shoot some hoops at the seaside basketball court. Be sure to check out the charming seaside village of Boqueron while you're there.

Puerto Rico's beaches are awesome, and with the wide variety, there's something for everyone. Whether you want to surf some challenging Atlantic waves, snorkel the reefs, or take a relaxing swim in gorgeous, calm Caribbean waters, the island has it all!

Enjoy your Puerto Rican beach tour, courtesy of Holle Abee!

Do any (or all) of these beaches tickle your fancy?  Do you know what will make your even more ticklish?  Staying in a villa or condo with your favorite beach right outside your door.  Enjoy your Puerto Rico vacation, and enjoy your beach side holiday home!