3 Best Sights in Luquillo, El Yunque and the Northeast

Signs refer to this gentle beach off Route 3 as "Balneario La Monserrate," but everyone simply calls it Luquillo Beach. Lined with lifeguard stations and shaded by soaring palm trees, it's a magnet for families and has picnic areas and more than 60 kiosks serving fritters and drinks—making it a local hangout. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available to rent, as are kayaks and Jet Skis. One very distinctive feature here is the Mar Sin Barreras (Sea Without Barriers), a gradual ramp into the water that allows wheelchair users to take a dip. On busy days, the beach can be crowded and characterized by a party atmosphere.  There is a nominal fee for using the shower facilities, so bring small bills for this purpose. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: partiers; swimming; walking.

Waving palm trees and fishing boats add charm to the small Playa Costa Azul, although the ugly residential buildings along the water make an unattractive backdrop. The water here is good for swimming, and the crowds are thinner than elsewhere, but there are no facilities. Amenities: none. Best for: swimming.

Playa La Pared (literally, "The Wall Beach") is a surfer haunt. Numerous local competitions are held here throughout the year, and several surfing shops are close by in case you need a wet suit or wax for your board. The waves here are medium-range. It's very close to Luquillo Beach, but has a separate entrance. There are no facilities. Amenities: none. Best for: partiers; surfing.