Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico – Complete Travel Guide (Updated January 2026)
Cabo Rojo, in Puerto Rico’s rugged southwest corner, offers stunning beaches, salt flats, and dramatic cliffs—perfect for an off-the-beaten-path escape. Locals flock here for pristine sands and sunsets, while tourists often overlook it (except for nearby Culebra).
Quick Tips
- Best Time: November–April for dry weather; avoid hurricane season (June–November).
- Getting Around: Rent a car—essential for beaches and salt flats (no reliable public transport).
- Currency/Language: US Dollar; Spanish and English widely spoken.
- Crowds: Weekends and holidays busy with locals; weekdays quieter.
- Apps: Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me).
Where to Stay
Options mix beachfront Airbnbs, family resorts, and vacation rentals. Boquerón and El Combate provide prime bases.
Budget/Midrange:
- Airbnbs and vacation homes in El Combate or Boquerón (many beachfront cabins/villas, $100–200/night).
Midrange:
- BOHO Beach Club (Boquerón) – Modern, beachy vibe.
- Combate Beach Resort – Family-friendly, steps from the sand.
Splurge:
- Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa (nearby in Guánica) – Luxury with pools and ocean views.
Book early for peak season; many properties are vacation rentals on Airbnb or VRBO.
How to Get There
Drive from San Juan (~2.5–3 hours via scenic routes through mountains and Ponce). Fly into Rafael Hernández Airport (Aguadilla, ~1 hour away) or San Juan and rent a car.
Top Things to Do in Cabo Rojo
Las Salinas Salt Flats & Wildlife Refuge
Active salt-mining site in Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge with hypersaline lagoons that turn pink (intensity varies by season, sunlight, and rainfall—best on dry, sunny days).
- Observation tower offers panoramic views.
- Hiking trails showcase mangroves, dry forest, and birdlife (prime for birdwatching).
- Interpretive Center often closed or limited (run by volunteers; check for guided tours in advance).
- Access freely, but respect gates and no trespassing on active mining areas.
La Playuela (Playa Sucia)
Crescent-shaped white-sand cove with turquoise water, backed by cliffs—often ranked among Puerto Rico’s most beautiful beaches.
Los Morillos Lighthouse
Iconic 1882 Spanish-built lighthouse on dramatic limestone cliffs. Grounds open daily; interior access varies (often exterior/cliff views only).
El Combate Beach
Long stretch of golden sand with calm waters—great for swimming, pier-jumping, and sunsets. North end livelier (restaurants/bars); south quieter.
Other Spots:
- Boquerón: Calm bay beach, family-friendly.
- Buyé Beach: Shaded, tranquil with clear water.
- Isla Ratones: Small cay off Joyuda—accessible by boat/kayak for snorkeling (conservation efforts ongoing).
Where to Eat
El Combate and Boquerón offer fresh seafood shacks, kiosks, and restaurants (try mofongo, tostones, empanadas). Pack a picnic for remote beaches like La Playuela.
What to Pack
- Swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, bug spray, snorkel gear, water shoes, microfiber towel, reusable water bottle.
Safety
Puerto Rico has higher crime rates—use common precautions (lock car, don’t leave valuables). Beaches generally safe; watch for strong currents. Area recovered well post-Hurricane Maria.
Cabo Rojo delivers raw, natural beauty with fewer crowds—ideal for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Pair with Rincon (surf) or Phosphorescent Bay (nearby La Parguera). Have questions? Ask below!