Most of the student population on campus aren’t Mayagϋez natives; they come from all parts of our paradisiacal island; Ponce, San Juan, Orocovis, I could go on and on. Many try to go back home every weekend to relax and spend some time with the family or pets. One downside is that it is very difficult to find time to study, something that is very essential in our lives, unless you’re some amazing born genius like Einstein. On that note, other students choose to stay here in “Maya” and use their ‘free’ time to catch up with school. Yet, if you are not utterly behind with classes or have almost no hope for that magically stupefying test on Monday or Tuesday, then you should take some time out of the weekend and explore. After all, these are the years where we build who we are and where we truly live and have fun. This is THE time, don’t spend it all studying; you’ll regret it when someday you’re 40-years-old and close to hitting your mid-life crisis.
Live a little, explore a little, enjoy life! While that thought may seem “hippie,” when you really ponder it, isn’t every little bit true? The west side of Borikén has gorgeous sights and places to explore, where great Snapchats and Instagram-perfect pictures can be taken. Let me show you a little of our gorgeous island.
1. Playita Azul, Cabo Rojo
Right next to Mayagϋez, Playita Azul is in Joyuda, Cabo Rojo. It’s a beach just a few minutes away from our campus. It is never lonely and always breezy. If you’re lucky, you might find a local beach dog or even a manatee.
The entrance to the beachy haven. The three poles give the beach its second name: “Playa Tres Tubos.” (Photos by me)
2. Buyé, Laguna Guaniquilla area, Cabo Rojo
Cabo Rojo is the town of beaches. The sun and salty air can be felt everywhere. Not so long ago I ventured with my hiker family into “Laguna Guaniquilla.” It’s right next to Buyé, you just follow the thin road and in the end you’ll find the gate. You will find the prettiest view of the “Laguna” along with some ruins. On top of that, Buyé is a really beautiful and clear-water beach; if you keep walking until you reach some dead trees that almost lay on the water, you could be lucky enough to see small fishies brush your legs. There’s also a small kiosk right on site that sells drinks, smoothies, and food.
The view of the lagoon from the top of the hill where the ruins are. (Photo by me)
3. Santuario Schoenstatt, Cabo Rojo
Not many people know of this gem, even if they live on the west side of the island. It’s easy to get to, right off “la 100.” The view is absolutely relaxing and quiet; you can just close your eyes and listen to the breeze. As a plus, there’s a property on the way to the Sanctuary that has llamas on their garden.
Photo by @daytripperspr (instagram)
4. La Soplaera, Peñuelas
Even if you’re not a fan of rivers, you will love this one. Last time I went was a couple of years ago and I’m-a wanting to go back. Although hidden from the road, you are quickly able to hear the beautiful sound of the two waterfalls crashing into their respective “pozas.” The water is extremely cold but the place is so beautiful, it refreshes and cleanses the spirit. It truly is a must-go. Model is not included.
Photos by @explorando_nuestra_isla_ and @pmlopezpr (instagram)
5. Fuerte Caprón and Playa Ballenas, Guánica
Photo by @nostiko (instagram)
Guánica, the town known for its Dry Forest, which is a UNESCO Reserve, its picture-perfect sunflower farm and its amazing beaches. As a child I used to go to Caña Gorda, a wonderful beach, but now my fave is the one after that, called Ballenas. Great memories were made there, especially my first whack in the head with a branch and my first insolation. I was transformed into a pink shrimp/unicorn. Nevertheless, the beach is perfect, and the water is clear and sometimes there are small waves just perfect for boogie and body surfing. Give it a go!
6. Playa Rosada, Lajas
In a nutshell, it’s a pool in the beach. It’s a portion of the beach closed off and made into a salt-water pool. It’s another adorable sight where you can cannonball into the water or just sunbathe on the edge. But be careful that your belongings don’t fall into the water.
Photo by @slo_pr (instagram)
7. Three words: Rincón, Rincón, Rincón
Photos by @jaysonramosg and @thedisfunction (instagram)
Rincón is a haven for surfers and tourists. If you’ve gone there and visited, you can easily understand why. Not only beautiful and sunny, but it’s also a place that emanates a relaxing vibe. Even though surfers love this place, not all the beaches are only for this; beaches like Almendro, Córcega, and Cofresí are perfect for a dip or a swim. Don’t miss the chance to walk along these beaches, you could witness a gorgeous wedding or cute perks like a swing (at Almendro beach). I advise you to go on a Thursday night, because the night life comes out and it’s even more chill and marvellous; you feel like a tourist in your own country. Every Thursday night and Sunday morning, Rincón also hosts an Art Walk on the town square with an eclectic variety of unique artisans and healthy food. You’ll get enraptured with their sunny personality and may even do unexpected things like taking a Wheatgrass shot (I did this!). You’ll never regret spending a whole day at Rincón.
8. Crash Boat Beach, Aguadilla
Photo by @luisabad8 (instagram)
Crashboat, another beach loved by boogie boarders and surfers. Admittedly the beach has its days; sometimes its tide and current are really strong but other days it’s good enough to have a swim and jump from the “muelle” (pier). The “muelle” is the strongest attraction of the beach, literally everybody that goes can’t say they went if they didn’t jump from it.
9. Playuela/Playa Sucia, Cabo Rojo
In my opinion, this is the best beach Cabo Rojo has to offer and it is quite easy to get to it. Playa Sucia is one of those blue and clean water beaches that you immediately fall in love with and lie down on the beach and get crazy-tanned because you forgot to retouch your sunblock. On the way there, there are stunning sites like the rolling grass hills and “Las Salinas,” with small mounds of sea salt that are quite fun for climbing on and taking pictures.
The famous Puente de Piedra right on Playuela. When you find the Faro, turn right and follow the trail and after a 15 minute walk you’ll find the Puente with a charming entrance of uva playera trees. Photo by @explorando_nuestra_isla_ (instagram).