Rincon SUP Surfboards and Downwind Rentals

SUP surfing (Stand-Up Paddle surfing) combines elements of paddleboarding and traditional surfing. Instead of lying down and paddling with your arms, you stand upright on a larger, more stable board and use a paddle to catch and ride waves. This allows for better visibility, easier positioning, and a full-body workout. Many people love SUP surfing because it offers a more relaxed entry into wave riding while still delivering the thrill of surfing. It’s a great option for those who want to explore surf breaks with more control and enjoy the added challenge of balancing while standing.

A SUP surfboard is designed for riding waves—similar to a traditional surfboard but with extra volume to support a standing paddler and a paddle. It’s shorter, more maneuverable, and has a rocker (curve) to help with turning and wave performance. These boards are ideal for catching and carving on waves, often in reef or beach breaks like those in Rincón.

A downwind board, on the other hand, is built for distance and speed over open water—especially when paddling with the wind at your back. These boards are typically much longer (often 12’6” to 17’) with a displacement hull that helps them glide over swells. They’re designed to track straight and catch open-ocean bumps, not for quick turns or wave riding.

The best time to surf in Rincón is during the winter surf season, from November through April. During these months, consistent Atlantic swells roll in from the north and northwest, lighting up Rincón’s many reef breaks with clean, powerful waves. This is prime time for all skill levels—beginners can find smaller waves at sheltered beaches, while advanced surfers can chase big swells at spots like Tres Palmas.

The peak of the season is typically December to February, when wave size and consistency are at their highest. If you're planning a surf trip and want the best chance of scoring, aim for this window. Summer months (May through October) tend to be much smaller and better suited for paddleboarding or beginner lessons on calm days.

For Beginners:

• María’s Beach (on smaller days): While this spot is popular with all levels, it can be friendly to beginners when the swell is small. It offers long, mellow waves and a sandy channel for paddling out, making it a good intro spot if conditions are calm.
• Sandy Beach: True to its name, this beach has a sandy bottom, which is great for beginners learning to pop up and wipe out safely. The waves here are usually smaller and slower.
• Steps Beach (when flat): Known for snorkeling, Steps can be suitable for first-timers when the swell is minimal. It’s a scenic, mellow place to try standing up on a board for the first time.

For Intermediate Surfers:

• Domes: A super consistent reef break with waves that range from fun to challenging depending on swell size. It works best in winter and offers both rights and lefts. It’s ideal for those ready to move off soft tops and onto shorter boards.
• Indicators: Located just south of María’s, this is a fast left that’s slightly more technical but great for intermediate surfers looking to level up.
• Spanish Wall: A bit of a paddle to get to, but less crowded and perfect for intermediates who want to escape the main breaks.

For Advanced Surfers:

• Tres Palmas: A world-renowned big wave spot that only works on large winter swells. The waves here can reach 20 feet or more and break over a shallow reef—only for highly experienced surfers with big wave boards and serious confidence.
• Dogman’s: A powerful reef break that handles overhead surf well. It’s punchy and can offer long rides, but the currents and reef require solid skills and ocean awareness.
• Pistons: A fast, hollow, and shallow wave near the lighthouse—great for advanced surfers looking for barrels, but not forgiving if you fall.

• Respect the Ocean: Please know your skill level and avoid areas with strong currents and big waves if you are a beginner!
• Understand the Local Breaks: Every surf spot is unique with waves breaking in different ways, potential hazards that are hidden from view (coral and rocks), and local surfing etiquette.
• Surf with a Buddy: It is always safer to have a friend to look after each other and assist in emergencies. 
• Stay Hydrated and Use Sunscreen: Please use reef-safe sunscreen that won’t damage the fragile ecosystems around Puerto Rico.

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, as the particles are small enough to be absorbed by corals, causing toxicity and coral bleaching. Reef-friendly sunscreens are formulated without these harmful chemicals. Reef-SAFE sunscreens go a step further by using non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to ingest, helping to preserve marine ecosystems. 

Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeve rash guards, as an alternative to sunscreen. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled ‘non-nano.’