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Love the idea of a Puerto Rico honeymoon, but looking to skip the big resort scene in San Juan? Lucky for you, this beautiful island is home to several romantic, off-the-beaten path destinations, ideal for honeymooning couples. If you and your new hubby are surf fanatics, looking for relaxed vibes, amazing food, and romance, all in a quaint little town, look no further than Rincon — one of our favorite Caribbean destinations.
Rincon, the small coastal town on Puerto Rico’s west side, has been rising in popularity with young couples, and surf lovers for the last few years, and for good reason. The small quaint town is home to only around 15,000 year-round residents and the growing tourist population has attracted some fantastic boutique hotel options and great mix of local and international residents. Made famous by hosting the 1968 World Surfing Championship, Rincon’s famed waters are where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean — creating a perfect mix of surf-able waves and swimming shores. There’s plenty to do, drink, and eat in Rincon and we’re routing out our favorite romantic spots for ultimate post-wedding relaxation.
Getting there: The easiest way to get to Rincon is flying into Aguadilla airport and making the 45 minute drive to the coastal town. You could fly into San Juan, but that will add an extra hour and a half to your drive.
Where to stay: If Caribbean seclusion is what you’re looking for, opt for luxury at the colonial style Horned Dorset Primavera. You will have a further drive getting to town but accommodations definitely cater to the romantic traveler. If you want to be in the mix of things, and in walking distance from some restaurants, beaches and activities, we like Casa Islena (we love the daily yoga classes held across the hotel’s parking lot by Barefoot Yoga) on Sandy Beach. Some of the best beginner waves are right out front, and a restaurant, bar, and beach side pool.
Day 1:
Morning:
Most East Coast arrivals into Aguadilla get you to Rincon by 10:30am. First things first: head to the famed BD Cafe for a breakfast bowl (the pitaya is our favorite) and a life-changing latte (add this to your daily to do list).
Afternoon:
After you check in, take it easy and just head to the aptly named Sandy beach. Depending on wave conditions you can rent a board for the day from one of the local vendors or just swim around the ocean. Lunch and cocktails at Tamboo beach tavern are a must.
Evening:
The scene at Pool Bar Sushi is a town favorite. Eat fresh Sushi that combines local flavors (the Coco Loco roll, yum) while watching surf videos on a big screen over the pool — doesn’t get more laid back than that.
Day 2:
Your second day is perfect for a full Caribbean beach day! Make your way to the Caribbean side of town and hit up Corcega beach. The long stretch of white sandy beach is usually pretty deserted — except on weekends — so it feels like you have the whole beach to yourself, which makes it ultra romantic. Make sure to bring enough sunscreen, books, water, and snacks to keep you until the afternoon (we love the healthy fresh juices and snacks from Carta Buena for beach snacks).
Afternoon:
On the way back from the beach stop at local favorite La Cambijja for some typical Puerto Rican fare (the shrimp empanadas are to die for!) and Mojitos.
Evening:
Sunsets in Rincon are not to be missed and La Copa Illena is a great place to catch one. A small tapas bar right on a small rustic beach, it’s the perfect place for savoring cocktails under the stars with your new spouse.
See more: Best Honeymoon Resorts in the Caribbean
Day 3:
Kick things off right with one of the best breakfasts you’ll ever experience at the English Rose. You’ll have to navigate some fairly steep, windy roads to get there, but it’s absolutely worth it for the delicious food, amazing views, and even better coffee.
Afternoon:
If surf’s up and you’ve always dreamt of catching some waves, book a surf lesson for two with Rincon Surf School. Rincon’s surf locations are basically out of a movie, there’s even an abandoned dome-shaped nuclear power plant as backdrop on some of the beaches. Alternatively you could opt to spend your last afternoon and evening on a bioluminescent bay tour. Many tour companies offer a sunset snorkeling tour of the bay at La Parguera, about an hour and a half away.
Evening:
Get the best view for your last sunset at the Beach House bar. Then finish your evening off with some more Mojitos at Tamboo. Feeling particularly adventurous? Go for a late night romantic dip in the ocean — it’s your honeymoon after all!