Puerto Rico’s natural swimming pools have all the benefits of a beach without the crowds.
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Everyone thinks of beaches when they think ofPuerto Rico.
The mere mention of the island evokes thoughts ofsunbathing, surfing, and cold beerson the sand.
Credit:Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
But, while touristsflood the coastline, residents head inland toward natural, freshwater swimming pools.
These secluded spots are some ofPuerto Rico’s best-kept secrets.
The water is always cold and flowing, a welcome relief on a hot day.
Mehroz Kapadia
Picnics are allowed but remember to take trash with you to get to preserve the spot for others.
Here are eight natural pools you should visit to experience Puerto Rico like a local.
Las Paylas
This set of natural pools and water slides is a family favorite.
Neighbors have converted part of their property into a parking lot and maintain a bathroom for guests to use.
(You pay a small fee in return.)
When you’re done, head over to the Luquillo kiosks.
you’re able to float under impressive rock formations and jump from the rocks into the deep water.
This is a scenic place to take pictures with murals of the Puerto Rican flag or on a swing.
Charco El Hippie
This natural pool is set amid giant boulders, creating a feeling of seclusion.
On a sunny day, the water is emerald green.
It’s best to go in the morning, as it can get murky when it rains.
There is also parking on residential properties turned parking lots for a fee.
After a refreshing dip, feast on locally grown, farm-to-table food atBacoa.
Reservations are strongly recommended.
Either way, you will get muddy on the way in and out.
Avoid this trail on a rainy day as it can get perilous.
There is a rope swing that puts you right in the olive green color water.
Thrill seekers can continue on to Las Tinajas, up the river.
You’ll need to swim across the river and hike over big boulders and roots to get there.
You’ll have to cross the river a few times and have an intuitive sense of where to go.
San German is the second oldest city on the island after San Juan.
There’s even anAirbnb experience it’s possible for you to bookwith a local guide.
This is a popular spot that gets crowded, so go early and avoid the weekends.
Afterward, drive to the mountain town of Lares to try savory ice cream flavors at the famousHeladeria Lares.
From garlic to rice and beans, these are family-owned recipes you won’t soon forget.
It is located in the southwest corner of the island.
The hike to the first waterfall is short, and it can be reached in less than five minutes.
If you want to continue to the second waterfall, water shoes are recommended to traverse comfortably.
