Baby Travel
Published:
21.11.24

The Best Baby-Friendly Beaches in Puerto Rico

Best Baby-Friendly Beaches in Puerto Rico | Island Butler

Puerto Rico is famous for its stunning beaches, but not all are gentle enough for babies and toddlers. Waves and strong currents can be a concern for not only little ones, but swimmers of all ages. 

Luckily, there are plenty of baby-friendly beaches in Puerto Rico where calm waters and family amenities make for a perfect day out with your little one. 

Here are five beaches that families with infants and toddlers love:

Luquillo Beach (Balneario Monserrate)

On the northeast coast, Luquillo Beach is often at the top of family lists. It’s a crescent-shaped public beach protected by a coral reef, which means the water near shore is usually as calm as a pool.

 

There are lifeguards on duty, picnic tables under palm trees for shade, and restrooms and showers – all helpful with a baby in tow. Plus, the famous Luquillo kiosks (food stands) are nearby, so you can grab a snack or cold drink easily.

Playa Escambrón (San Juan)

This beach near Old San Juan is a local favorite for its protected cove. A reef break keeps the waves small, so your baby can dip their toes in calm water. 

Escambrón also has a grassy park area with trees right next to the sand, providing natural shade where you can set up a blanket for nap time. 

Facilities include bathrooms, showers, and a nearby snack bar. It’s easy to reach from the city and has parking, making it super convenient for families.

Seven Seas Beach (Fajardo)

On the east coast in Fajardo, Seven Seas is known for clear, shallow waters and gentle waves. It’s an ideal spot for babies to sit at the shoreline and splash. 

There are gazebos and palm trees providing shade, and you’ll find bathrooms and picnic areas since it’s a public balneario. During weekdays it’s very quiet – you might have a big stretch of beach nearly to yourself. 

On weekends you’ll see more local families enjoying the day (which means potential playmates for your little one).

Boquerón Beach (Cabo Rojo)

On the west/southwest side, Boquerón is a must-visit for families. This wide bay beach has very gentle, warm water – it’s like a giant natural kiddie pool. 

The sand is soft and the beach is backed by palm trees. Facilities at Balneario Boquerón include bathrooms and changing areas, and there are food vendors on weekends. 

The nearby village of Boquerón has a fun, laid-back vibe if you want to stroll for ice cream after beach time.

Balneario de Carolina (Isla Verde area)

Next to San Juan’s Isla Verde strip is Carolina Public Beach, a family-friendly balneario with a huge stretch of sand. The water is relatively calm (especially in the morning when winds are low). 

It has lifeguards, ample parking, restrooms, showers, and picnic pavilions. There’s some natural shade from palm trees, but consider bringing or renting a beach umbrella for extra sun protection. 

Being so close to the city, it’s a convenient option if you’re staying in San Juan and want a baby-friendly beach without a long drive.

Tips for Baby Beach Days

Even at these gentle beaches, always keep a close eye on your little one around water. A wide-brimmed sun hat, baby-safe sunscreen, and a rash guard swimsuit are your baby’s best friends under the Puerto Rican sun. 

Bring a lightweight pop-up beach tent or umbrella (Island Butler rents beach gear if you need) to create a shady retreat for feeding or naps. 

A little inflatable baby float or a bucket and shovel can add extra fun for older babies and toddlers. And of course, pack plenty of water and snacks for both baby and parents – beach play is tiring!

These baby-friendly beaches prove you don’t have to skip the sand and surf when visiting Puerto Rico with a tiny traveler. 

With calm waters and convenient amenities, each of these spots offers a safe and relaxing environment for your family to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

 

¡Que lo disfruten! (Enjoy!)