La Poza del Obispo
A stunning natural cove and beach in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, known for its calm swimming waters and dramatic ocean waves.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
La Poza del Obispo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning natural cove and beach in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, known for its calm swimming waters and dramatic ocean waves.
"Amazing wide open ocean with big beautiful waves and an enclosed calm majestic beach."
🚗 Parking & Boardwalk Access
Convenient parking is available, with a wooden boardwalk connecting it directly to the beach.
🌊 Respect the Ocean's Power
Be aware of strong currents and large waves on the open side. The cove is safer for swimming.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Calm Cove (La Poza)
Left side of the beach
A natural, protected pool perfect for swimming and family fun, shielded from the open ocean's force.
The Majestic Waves
Right side of the beach
Experience the raw power of the Atlantic with impressive waves, ideal for watching or experienced surfers.
Tide Pools and Rock Formations
Explore fascinating tide pools teeming with marine life and unique rock formations sculpted by the sea.
Arecibo Lighthouse Views
Near the beach
Enjoy scenic views of the historic Arecibo Lighthouse, adding a touch of history to your beach day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Ocean Conditions Can Vary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Boardwalk Access
Convenient parking is available, with a wooden boardwalk connecting it directly to the beach.
🌊 Respect the Ocean's Power
Be aware of strong currents and large waves on the open side. The cove is safer for swimming.
🐠 Snorkeling Potential
Rocks and reefs near shore offer good snorkeling, but watch out for strong currents.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The dramatic waves and unique rock formations make this a fantastic spot for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Boardwalk Access
Convenient parking is available, with a wooden boardwalk connecting it directly to the beach.
🌊 Respect the Ocean's Power
Be aware of strong currents and large waves on the open side. The cove is safer for swimming.
🐠 Snorkeling Potential
Rocks and reefs near shore offer good snorkeling, but watch out for strong currents.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The dramatic waves and unique rock formations make this a fantastic spot for photography.
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Help keep this beautiful spot pristine by taking all your trash with you.
🍽️ Nearby Dining Options
Enjoy delicious food at the parking lot or the highly recommended Islote Beach Restaurant nearby.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about La Poza del Obispo's stunning beauty, highlighting the unique contrast between its calm, family-friendly cove and the powerful, wave-swept open ocean. The natural rock formations, tide pools, and the impressive 'splash' phenomenon are frequently praised, making it a visually captivating destination. Some reviewers noted strong currents on the open side and that the cove can get crowded on weekends, suggesting weekdays for a more serene experience.
"It is amazing wide open ocean with big beautiful waves to the right and an enclosed calm majestic beach to the left. As if that wasn't enough theres a cliff to explore. A light house. Some thing to eat in the parking lot or right around the corner an amazing restaurant. I fed a couple of the dogs my leftovers and became part of the pack moving about under the shade of palm trees we all layed down for a quick nap(sort of like a cat nap) only different we will call it a sea esta. Then back to the soft sand and clear blue waves of the giant Atlantic ocean. Ahhh Arecibo 🥰"
Daniel Kelley
"Loved the view of the place. There is parking near by and also there also is a wooden boardwalk were it connects the parking to the beach. Went on a Saturday at noon and it was a little crowded. La poza is kinda small, but we still manage to get a space to get wet and cool down. The water was great, you can see fishes all around and the best part is that when a wave hits in a specific rock, it makes an awesome and super great splash that it is just amazing to experience. The place is great for pictures. I do recommend to try to go on a week day."
ana martinez
"So beautiful!! Only park on the left side of the road, parking in the right will get you a ticket!!! Was so pretty and plan to go back! Swim with the tropical fish here!!"
finca rosa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Poza del Obispo is located in Arecibo, about an hour's drive west of San Juan. You can rent a car and take PR-22 W, then follow local signs. Public transportation options are limited, so a rental car is the most convenient. +1
Yes, there is parking available near the beach, and a wooden boardwalk connects it directly to the sand.
The 'poza' or cove area offers calmer waters, making it more suitable for families with young children. However, always supervise children closely due to the ocean's power.
Absolutely! If you're staying in Arecibo, La Poza del Obispo is a very accessible and popular local spot. +1
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Arecibo and its various beaches, including La Poza del Obispo, offering the most flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
La Poza del Obispo is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You can enjoy its natural beauty for free.
As a natural beach, there are no official operating hours. It's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, be mindful of local customs and safety after dark.
No, tickets are not required as it's a public beach. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
The main recommendation is to be mindful of the ocean's conditions and to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles by not leaving any trash behind.
The 'poza' (cove) offers calmer waters suitable for swimming. However, the open ocean side can have strong currents and large waves, so exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the calm cove, watch the powerful waves on the open side, explore tide pools, snorkel, and enjoy photography. It's also a great spot for a relaxing beach day.
Yes, there are rocks and reefs about 50 yards from the shore that are good for snorkeling, with many fish visible.
When waves hit a specific rock formation, it creates a large, impressive splash, which is a unique and amazing sight to experience.
Yes, drone flying has been observed and captured at La Poza del Obispo, offering unique aerial perspectives of the coastline.
Comfortable beachwear, swimwear, and water shoes are recommended. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential for sun protection.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food options available in the parking lot area and a highly recommended restaurant called Islote Beach Restaurant nearby.
Islote Beach Restaurant is known for serving delicious food, making it a popular spot for visitors after a beach day.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed, but remember to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
While there might not be designated picnic areas, you can find spots on the sand to enjoy your own meals. Remember to pack out everything you pack in.
Beyond Islote Beach Restaurant, exploring local 'kioskos' or smaller eateries in Arecibo can offer authentic Puerto Rican flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic waves crashing against the rocks, the calm cove, the tide pools, and the view of the Arecibo Lighthouse all offer excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, drone footage has captured stunning aerial views of La Poza del Obispo, showcasing its unique geography and coastline.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. The unique splash phenomenon can also be a photographic highlight.
The 'splash' created when waves hit a particular rock is a unique and photogenic event. Tide pools also offer opportunities to capture marine life.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline, while a telephoto lens can be useful for the waves. A waterproof camera or protective casing is advisable if you plan to get close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the tide pools can be an educational and fun activity for kids, offering a chance to discover small marine creatures.
🌊 Adventurous Beachgoers
If you're keen on snorkeling, the rocky areas offshore are known to have good visibility and marine life.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The unique splash phenomenon is a must-capture moment. Don't miss the opportunity for drone shots to showcase the stunning coastal landscape from above.
Exploring the tide pools offers a chance for detailed macro shots of marine life. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Ocean Dynamics
It's crucial to be aware of the ocean currents, which can be surprisingly strong, especially during certain tide cycles. One reviewer noted a significant current that could rapidly push swimmers if they weren't prepared.
During specific times, a unique phenomenon occurs where waves hitting a particular rock create an impressive splash, a sight that many visitors find amazing and worth experiencing.
Exploring the Natural Wonders
For those interested in underwater exploration, the area is known to be good for snorkeling. The presence of rocks and reefs about 50 yards from the shore provides a habitat for various fish.
The Arecibo Lighthouse is also a notable landmark in the vicinity, offering scenic views and a touch of historical context to your visit.
Combining a visit to the beach with a view of the lighthouse can enhance your overall experience of the Arecibo coastline.A Photographer's Paradise
Drone photography enthusiasts will find the aerial perspectives particularly rewarding. Videos showcase sweeping shots of the beach, the cove, and the surrounding landscape, highlighting the unique geography of the area.
Beyond the grand vistas, the tide pools offer intimate macro photography subjects, allowing you to capture the intricate details of marine life. The unique splash phenomenon also presents a fleeting but spectacular moment for photographers to seize.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit