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​​🏖️ North Coast Puerto Rico Beach Guide: Arecibo
​🌅 Destination Overview:
The North Coast of Puerto Rico is a captivating blend of natural beauty, rugged cliffs, and golden-sand beaches kissed by the Atlantic Ocean. Arecibo, a historic town on this coast, is known for its iconic lighthouse, massive coastal caves, and scenic shoreline. Whether you're here for swimming, surfing, or sightseeing, Arecibo’s beaches offer something unforgettable for every traveler.

🌊 Featured Beaches in Arecibo
🏝️ Playa El Muelle (Arecibo Pier Beach)

• 📍 Address: Calle El Muelle, Arecibo, PR 00612
• ✨ Unique Features: Historic pier, panoramic ocean views, rocky coastline
• 🎯 Activities: Photography, walking, fishing
• 🚗 Accessibility: Parking nearby, short walk
• 🚿 Amenities: Food kiosks close by; no restrooms
• 📸 Landmarks: Near Arecibo Lighthouse & Historical Park
• 🌊 Water Safety: Strong currents; not suitable for swimming
• 🌦️ Weather: Breezy with high surf at times

🏖️ Playa La Poza del Obispo

• 📍 Address: End of Calle Jose A. Torres, Arecibo, PR 00612
• ✨ Unique Features: Natural tidal pool with limestone barrier
• 🎯 Activities: Swimming, relaxing, sunbathing
• 🚗 Accessibility: Paved parking lot close to beach
• 🚻 Amenities: Restrooms, food vendors, lifeguards on weekends
• 📸 Landmarks: Adjacent to the lighthouse
• 🌊 Water Safety: Safe inside pool; avoid open ocean during rough surf
• 🌦️ Weather: Sunny with afternoon showers common

🏄‍♂️ Playa Caza y Pesca

• 📍 Address: Avenida Victor Rojas, Arecibo, PR 00612 (near river mouth)
• ✨ Unique Features: Quiet, local beach perfect for fishing
• 🎯 Activities: Surfcasting, walks, birdwatching
• 🚗 Accessibility: Accessible by car; signage is limited
• 🚻 Amenities: No facilities — bring essentials
• 📸 Landmarks: Close to Río Grande de Arecibo
• 🌊 Water Safety: Strong currents — caution recommended
• 🌦️ Weather: Hot and breezy; great for sunset views

🌴 Playa Caracoles (Poza de Don Guelo / Gasolina Beach)

• 📍 Address: PR-681, KM 9.6, Islote, Arecibo, PR 00612
• ✨ Unique Features: Shallow natural pools in a protected cove
• 🎯 Activities: Family-friendly swimming, lounging, wading
• 🚗 Accessibility: Roadside parking near Columbus statue
• 🚻 Amenities: Nearby bars and restaurants (e.g., Camaleón Bar)
• 📸 Landmarks: Close to Birth of the New World Columbus Statue
• 🌊 Water Safety: Calm pools, though ocean nearby can get rough
• 🌦️ Weather: Warm mornings, occasionally windy afternoons

🌾 Playa Los Negritos

• 📍 Address: Sector Los Negritos, Arecibo, PR 00612 (near river and wetlands)
• ✨ Unique Features: Secluded, nature-rich beach
• 🎯 Activities: Beachcombing, peaceful retreats
• 🚗 Accessibility: Narrow access road; parking limited
• 🚻 Amenities: None — plan ahead
• 📸 Landmarks: Natural wetlands and coastal river
• 🌊 Water Safety: Use caution — no lifeguards
• 🌦️ Weather: Mostly sunny with potential wind gusts

🧭 Nearby Points of Interest:

• Arecibo Lighthouse and Historical Park 🗼
• Cueva del Indio (Indian Cave) 🪨
• Birth of the New World Columbus Statue 🧭
• Restaurants: Salitre Mesón Costero, Camaleón Bar, El Buen Sabor del Chef
• Lodging: Guesthouses and budget inns in downtown Arecibo

🚨 Essential Info
​🧴 Travel Tips:

• Bring sunscreen, water shoes, and your own supplies if visiting lesser-known beaches
• Respect local wildlife and posted signage
• Stay safe during high tides or weather alerts

​📞 Emergency Contacts:

• Emergency: 911
• Tourist Police: +1 (787) 343-2020
• Arecibo Hospital: +1 (787) 881-1100
• U.S. Coast Guard (PR): +1 (787) 729-6770