Puerto Rico has many natural spots that feel calm and wild at the same time. Waterfalls are some of the most relaxing places you can visit during your trip. They give fresh air, cool water, and quiet views perfect for slowing down. You can reach many falls by renting a car, then walking on small forest paths. The island is safe to explore if you plan your route and bring the right gear. If you need help preparing for deeper forest trails, this blog will guide your trip to the best waterfalls in Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico has over 60 known waterfalls, with many more small cascades hidden in forest and mountain areas.
We have handpicked the best waterfalls to visit in the country. The trails here vary widely, from paved paths to river crossings.
La Coca Falls is one of the first waterfalls you see when you enter El Yunque. The cascade drops about 85 feet over a wide rock wall shaped by years of steady flow. The water spreads across smooth stone, creating a long white curtain that looks striking from the road. Many travellers stop here first because the view is strong and easy to reach.
The waterfall is located near PR-191, just a few minutes from the main entrance. Parking is limited, so visit early to avoid long waits on the narrow road. The rocks around the falls are very slippery, and the current is strong, so swimming is not allowed. Most visitors stay in the viewing area and enjoy the sound and spray. This makes La Coca a great stop for photos before exploring deeper parts of the forest.
Juan Diego Falls is one of the calmest spots in El Yunque. The trail takes you through lush vegetation, soft mist, and small pools. Many travellers come here to rest, cool down, and enjoy rainforest views. The falls have two main sections. The lower pools are located near the beginning of the short trail. These shallow pools feel cool and peaceful. Water moves gently over smooth rocks.
You can enter the pool, but walk slowly because the stones are slippery. The upper waterfall is higher and feels more dramatic. The climb is steeper and needs careful steps. The drop is approximately 40 feet. The path has wet roots and uneven ground. The trail becomes busy after midday.
La Mina Falls is situated deep within El Yunque and is one of the most famous waterfalls on the island. The waterfall stands at approximately 35 feet, cascading into a clear pool that you can enjoy after a long walk. The area around the pool has thick forest, steady river flow, and smooth rocks shaped by years of water movement.
If you want to reach La Mina Falls, the trail follows the La Mina River, passing smaller cascades, leafy plants, and charming bridges. The path features concrete steps, shaded stops, and open areas where you can hear the strong river nearby. The walk takes about 1 hour, depending on your pace. The pool at the base of the falls is refreshing, but the rocks can be slippery so wear water shoes. Early mornings are the best time to visit, as the crowds are small and the forest feels calm.
Gozalandia Falls is one of the best spots to visit in San Sebastián, with two large waterfalls in one area. The lower waterfall is the main highlight, with a strong 60-foot curtain of water that drops into a deep pool. You can swim here, explore a half-submerged cave beside the falls, or watch locals take bold cliff jumps from high rocks. The water stays cool all year, which feels great on hot days.
The upper waterfall is a short walk above the lower one. The trail is easy to follow, and you reach a calmer pool with a fun rope swing that many visitors enjoy. The climb is gentle, so most travellers can reach the top without trouble. This section feels quieter, making it ideal for those who want to relax in a forest setting. The entire site is easily accessible, thanks to a paved and clear path from the paid parking lot. You walk only a few minutes before you see the first cascade.
Salto Curet is located in the rural town of Maricao. It is one of the most hidden waterfalls on the island. The area feels wild, quiet, and deep inside the mountains. Go here if you want to go hiking in waterfalls in Puerto Rico. Salto Curet is a two-tier waterfall with a 100-foot drop. The water flows over smooth rock walls and falls into a deep pool. The pool is clean due to the steady river flow. The path is muddy, uneven, and has exposed roots. The trail is easy to walk on, but shoes with good grip are essential. The terrain is generally safe for most hikers, but it may not be ideal for very young children.
The drive to Salto Curet follows Road 105 until the 28-kilometre marker. Across the bridge, you turn onto Road 425 and continue to the end. The last part of the road is rough and narrow.You then walk for 15 to 20 minutes, and some parts require wading upstream in the Río Lajas. The water is clear, but the stones can be slippery.
Charco Prieto is one of the closest major waterfalls to San Juan. It is located in Bayamón and feels wild and untouched. The waterfall features a tall curtain wall that cascades into a deep pool, surrounded by steep rock formations. This is one of the most rewarding jungle hikes near the capital.
The trail is about one mile each way. It can be challenging because of mud, roots, and tight forest sections. Fallen trees and debris cover parts of the path. You cross rivers by stepping on rocks or shallow sections. The final stretch is steep and slippery. Some hikers scramble up rocks to get a close look at the waterfall wall.
Several small pools sit along the river before the main fall. These pools help you cool down during the hike. There's a pool below a smaller cascade near the main drop. This pool has murkier water because of the soft soil.Hiking the trail is best during dry weather, as rain can make the path unsafe. Morning visits offer clearer views and steadier footing. Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. The hike is for fit travellers who enjoy rugged ground and steady climbs.
Doña Juana Waterfall sits in Orocovis, along Road 149 at kilometer 41.5, right in the heart of Puerto Rico’s Central Mountain Range. The area forms part of Toro Negro State Forest, so the scenery feels cool and green even on warm days. The waterfall drops in three steps, reaching a total height of approximately 100 feet. Many travellers stop here because the site is easy to reach and offers a peaceful break during a mountain drive. You get a full view of all three tiers from the road bridge.
Doña Juana stands out because you do not need to hike. You park your car, walk a short distance, and see the full cascade right away. The waterfall features a natural pool at its base. The three-tier flow also gives the waterfall a dramatic shape. The steady water movement originates from the Toro Negro stream, which keeps the area well-watered even during the dry season.
Here are some things to keep in mind before exploring the waterfalls in Puerto Rico.
Good shoes matter on every trail. Many waterfalls are located in wet forest zones, so rocks and soil remain slick after rain. Wear shoes with strong grip to avoid slips on mud or mossy stones. Keep your things in a dry bag because sudden showers are common in mountain and rainforest areas. Always check the weather before leaving your hotel. Water levels rise fast, and cloudy skies over the mountains can signal short but heavy rain.
Some trails follow rivers or cross shallow sections. These spots turn dangerous after rainfall because water can surge within minutes. Avoid river crossings if you see dark water, sudden flow changes, or rising levels near your feet. Do not attempt to climb wet boulders near strong currents. Many waterfalls, such as Charco Prieto and Salto Curet, are accessible via river paths, so stay alert and be prepared to turn back if water conditions change.
Follow marked paths when they are available. Stepping off the route damages delicate plants and makes erosion worse after rain. Avoid climbing unstable slopes or entering closed trails, such as La Mina, when restrictions are in effect.
Exploring Puerto Rico waterfalls feels like moving through a live postcard. Each spot has its own charm, from easy roadside views to deep forest pools. You will see calm streams, tall drops, quiet corners, and clear water that cools you after walking or hiking.
You can visit more waterfalls when you rent a car in Puerto Rico with Final Rentals. Pick up your vehicle at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport or Rafael Hernández Airport. Choose a compact car, an SUV, or a family van for your plans. Booking is fast with instant confirmation, no hidden fees, and free cancellations. For extra convenience, you can also download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
