Blake Walsh

15 Free Things to Do in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

  • Published 2022/12/06

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, is the perfect choice for an exciting and educational destination!

Thanks to its white sandy beaches, vibrant architecture, exceptional art, and rich history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking to relax or explore with your family and friends, Aguadilla has everything for you to spend your day!

The city of Aguadilla in Aguadilla County is a paradise you must add to your vacation list.

It also has many activities that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Here are some free things to do in Aguadilla.

Survive the Hike to Survival Beach

Scenic view of Survival Beach

Chanda M. Scott / Shutterstock.com

Aguadilla is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

However, it’s not just the sand and sun that make these beaches unique.

Part of the fun is the challenge of reaching them.

The hike to Survival Beach is not for the faint of heart, but those who are up for the challenge are rewarded with stunning coastline views.

The waters of Survival Beach

Ema.Otx / Shutterstock.com

The first half of the trail is relatively easy, but it gets more challenging as you get closer to the beach.

There are several steep sections, and you’ll need to use your hands to scramble over rocks.

However, the effort is worth it when you reach the top and see incredible views.

Survival Beach is a hidden gem worth visiting if you’re looking for an adventure.

Rock formations at Survival Beach

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Check Out the Unspoiled Salvemos a Playuela

Salvemos a Playuela in Aguadilla is a beloved local beach threatened by urbanization for years.

Salvemos a Playuela is a gorgeous nature preserve spanning over 4,000 feet with five diverse ecosystems abundant in plant and animal life, including several protected species.

Residents have fought tirelessly to keep the beach untouched, and their efforts have paid off.

The beach is still relatively unspoiled and is a beautiful place to enjoy nature.

The sand is white and soft, and the water is crystal clear.

It’s not uncommon to see turtles nesting on the shoreline or dolphins swimming offshore.

It’s truly a place of beauty and worth fighting for.

It also boasts some of Puerto Rico’s and the Caribbean’s best surf break spots, which makes it a favorite among surfers.

When you’re in Aguadilla, check out Salvemos a Playuela and see why the locals are so passionate about its preservation.

Update Your Insta with the Bandera Reyes Magos

Aguadilla is known for its beautiful beaches, but one hidden spot is worth a visit.

Tucked away on a side street, the building adorned with the Bandera Reyes Magos is an Instagram-worthy sight.

The colorful mural depicts the Puerto Rican Flag, featuring the Three Wise Men or Reyes Magos, according to locals.

It also has two swings where you can sit and pose for that picture-perfect camera shot!

The building where Bandera Reyes Magos is painted should be on your list of places to see in Aguadilla.

Take a Picture with the Beautiful Ruinas del Faro

Daytime view of Ruinas del Faro

Structured Vision / Shutterstock.com

No trip to Aguadilla is complete without a visit to the Ruinas del Faro.

This beautiful spot is on the island’s north coast, just a short drive from the city center.

The Ruinas del Faro features the remains of an old lighthouse destroyed by an earthquake in 1918.

Passageway of Ruinas del Faro

Structured Vision / Shutterstock.com

The views from the top are breathtaking, and you can see all of Aguadilla and the nearby islands.

There are plenty of photo opportunities among the crumbling walls, overgrown vegetation, and picturesque view of the coastline from the ruins.

Bring your camera, for this is one spot you don’t want to forget!

Building remains of Ruinas del Faro

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Wander the Vibrant Streets at Casas de Colores

Casas de Colores, located in Aguadilla, is a vibrant and colorful community that is well worth a visit.

The streets are lined with brightly painted houses, and the overall atmosphere is one of cheerful chaos.

It’s worth getting lost in the winding streets for a while, letting yourself be transported by the energy this place gives.

A group of local artists created this project a few years ago, and it is something you don’t want to miss!

Get ready for your poses because this place has plenty of beautiful spots to help create an Instagrammable photo.

Enjoy a Romantic Sunset at Paseo Real Marina

If you’re looking for a romantic way to spend an evening with your loved ones, look no further than Paseo Real Marina in Aguadilla.

The Paseo Real Marina is a lovely 1.6-kilometer concrete pathway overlooking the ocean with gorgeous coastal views of the cityscape.

Bring your loved ones here, and as you walk hand-in-hand along the stunning marina, you’ll see a breathtaking view of the sun setting over the water.

Look at the sky painted in a spectrum of oranges, pinks, and purples.

The marina’s calm waters reflect the colors of the sky, creating a truly magical scene.

These things make the perfect place to spend an evening with your loved ones.

Paseo Real Marina offers stunning views of the setting sun, perfect for a romantic evening with your loved ones.

Swim in the Crystal Waters of Crash Boat Beach

Aerial view of Crash Boat Beach

Christian Ouellet / Shutterstock.com

It’s hard to beat a day spent swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Crash Boat Beach.

Located in Aguadilla on the northwest coast of Puerto Rico, this beach is well known for its beautiful blue waters and white sand beaches.

Visitors can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, or exploring the nearby coral reef.

A person swimming on Crash Boat Beach

Hiram Rios / Shutterstock.com

Crash Boat has become known as the party beach of the island, with a vibrant scene that includes music, kiosks, and food stands lining the pier.

Crash Boat Beach is perfect for a leisurely day by the water or an exciting afternoon of adventure.

A boat on the sands of Crash Boat Beach

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Snorkel in the Waters of Peña Blanca Beach

Adding a snorkeling adventure to your beach vacation can be a great way to explore the underwater world.

It will also let you see some sea creatures you wouldn’t usually have the chance to see.

Peña Blanca Beach in Aguadilla is a great place to snorkel, with crystal clear waters and plenty of fish to see.

You can find several tropical fish and coral reef formations near the shore.

You can even spot a sea turtle or two if you’re lucky!

The best time to snorkel is typically in the morning when the water is the calmest.

Remember to use sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Snorkeling at Peña Blanca Beach can be fun and memorable with a bit of preparation.

See the Wrecked El Avión

If you’re ever in northwestern Puerto Rico, swing by Aguadilla and take photos of the abandoned El Avión!

While taxiing, the plane suffered an accident in February 1992 due to hydraulic problems causing the pilot to lose control.

As the pilot tried to regain control, El Avio hit a parked plane before stopping in a ditch, where it caught fire.

The ironic part about this story is that the pilot emerged utterly unscathed despite the planes being damaged beyond repair.

The wings and tail have been removed over time and are now covered in graffiti.

Although this property was once closed off to visitors, you can now explore it freely!

There are steps leading into the plane that make it easy to enter.

Be careful once you step inside, as the floorboards can be tricky to walk on.

Take a Break at the El Parterre

The grounds of El Parterre

Ian Poellet, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

After a long day of touring around Aguadilla, you can rest in the El Parterre park in the city.

El Parterre, or the “Ojo de Agua,” is Aguadilla’s natural spring-fed plaza which is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful Puerto Rican scenery.

Many believe that the underground spring spanned over 25 miles, emerging in Aguadilla, and it was once a primary water source for Spaniards who occupied the land long ago.

A small footbridge at El Parterre

Ian Poellet, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You can stroll through the gardens, sit on a bench and enjoy the view, or even take a nap in the shade.

El Parterre is the perfect place for those who want to relax after doing fun activities in Aguadilla.

Enclosed spring of El Parterre

Ian Poellet, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Relax at Punta Borinquen Beach

Do you need a relaxing vacation?

Look no further than Punta Borinquen Beach in Aguadilla.

With its soft sand and crystal-clear water, the beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning view.

You can also get a picture-perfect shot from this stunning beach.

If you’re looking for a little more excitement, there are plenty of fishing, surfing, and windsurfing opportunities.

Whether you’re looking to relax or have fun, Punta Borinquen Beach has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.

Visit the Borinquen Field Ramey Air Force Base Museum

The Borinquen Field Ramey Air Force Base Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the United States Air Force.

The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, photos, and documents that chronicle the development of the Air Force.

The museum is also home to various interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to experience being an Air Force pilot during the Cold War.

This museum is also a memorial for the Air Force Veterans who served and sacrificed for the country.

The Borinquen Field Ramey Air Force Base Museum is perfect for a day out if you love history.

You should have a fantastic time and learn new things about the US Air Force too!

Ride the Wild Waves at Surfer’s Beach

Aerial view of Surfer’s Beach

Ema.Otx / Shutterstock.com

Are you looking for a place to conquer the waves?

Head to Surfer’s Beach and brave the waters as you ride the waves!

This famous spot in Aguadilla is beloved by surfers for its big, powerful waves.

If you’re not much of a surfer, don’t worry because the waves here can also be gentle!

The water is clean and clear on this beach, and it will add more excitement to your surfing activities.

Surfing at Surfer’s Beach

Ema.Otx / Shutterstock.com

Also, Surfer’s Beach is known for its stunning natural beauty.

The sparkling turquoise waters and white sand views from the beaches will take your breath away as you cascade through the seas.

Grab your board and rule the waves at Surfer’s Beach!

Surfer’s Beach is perfect for surfers of all levels.

The waves of Surfer’s Beach

Ema.Otx / Shutterstock.com

See Majestic Views at Mirador de Aguadilla

Mirador de Aguadilla is one of the best places to take in the stunning views of Aguadilla bay.

You can see the Puerto Rican beaches, the ocean, and even the nearby airport.

The Mirador, or sightseeing location, is on a hill, so it’s a great place to watch the sunset or take a walk.

Mirador de Aguadilla is a great place to take photos or enjoy the view.

The best time to visit here is during the golden hour in the late afternoon.

The next time you’re in Aguadilla, go to Mirador de Aguadilla.

It’s an experience you surely don’t want to miss!

See the Beauty of Aguadilla along the Hoyo 8 MTB Trail

Hoyo 8 MTB Trail is a great place to go for a bike ride and see the beauty of Aguadilla.

The trail spans four kilometers and takes 24 minutes to finish.

This long trail will take you to see the natural beauty of Aguadilla.

You’ll ride past lush green hills, crystal clear rivers, and stunning ocean views.

The trail is easy to follow, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

When you’re done, you can cool off with a refreshing swim at one of the many beaches at the trail’s end.

Visit Aguadilla and see why it’s such a special place.

Final Thoughts

Aguadilla has many amazing things, from stunning beaches and popular surfing spots to sightseeing vantage points.

There is something for everyone in this Puerto Rican city which everyone can enjoy without breaking the bank.

The place will give you the relaxation you deserve.

Plan your trip today and enjoy the free things to do in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico!

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