Puerto Rico > San Juan Puerto Rico > San Juan Beaches > Balneario El Escambron
The Best Beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico – Sun, Swimming, Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
Balneario El Escambron is the most picturesque beach in San Juan protected by a coral reef with soft golden sand and perfectly landscaped with tall palm trees providing cozy shaded spots. Be sure to block off much more than beach time, you’ll be walking into a recreational park with enough activities for a fun-filled day the whole family will enjoy.
Escambron Beach is located in Puerta de Tierra within walking distance from Old San Juan and Condado. Escambron is the best public beach in the metro area offering much more than a great beach experience. Here you can snorkel, scuba dive, take a romantic walk along the scenic oceanside trail, visit the historic Bateria El Escambron, find quiet spots just for two, enjoy the green area at Parque Tercer Milenio (Third Millennium Park), eat great food, and more. The city is vibrant, full of energy but once you get here, you’ll experience the relaxing and alluring pleasures of this city with tropical bliss.
Being on this beach barely feels like you’re in a city, during the high season (mid-November – April), Balneario El Escambron is still nice and quiet during weekdays.
Playa 8 (Main Beach) – Escambron Beach
As soon as you step foot on this beach you’ll either be pulled by the waters or seduced by the swaying coconut palm trees inviting you to sit down and relax under its cooling shade. From the turquoise waters, you’ll have a great vantage point to see the National Historic Site from a different point of view. You will also have views of the Capitol Building This beach is protected by a coral wall that keeps the strong surf from coming in, creating a giant natural pool where you can swim, do a little snorkeling, and play. The beach has a lifeguard from Monday – Sunday 9:30 am – 5:30 pm.
Playa 9 (Bateria El Escambron)
Walk east of the park and you’ll get to “Playa 9”, a small beach loved by families with small children for its shallow clear waters. Typically this beach is the quietest with fewer crowds. From this beach, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Condado and Ocean Park shores.
Bring your snorkeling gear or rent it. This beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. There’s a deep drop-off right along the man-made concrete boulders where you’ll see a variety of colorful fish and beautiful sea turtles.
See the most popular snorkeling and scuba diving tours below.
Top Rated Snorkeling & Scuba Diving Tours
Playa El Escambron - San Juan, Puerto RicoPlaya Escambron offers a nice coastal trail enjoyed by foot and cyclists. Although Escambron is a popular beach in San Juan, you’ll find various spaces around the park, relaxing, uncrowded, and romantic.
Most beachgoers stay at the main beach leaving the trail nice and quiet where you’ll find lovely hidden spots to sit, relax…
enjoy the views, listen to the ocean, and have a romantic conversation.
Don’t miss visiting Bateria del Escambron, a historic site with sweeping views of the coastline and city.
Facilities & Services at Balneario El Escambron
Escambron Beach is part of the Tercer Milenio Park offering recreational activities and services.
Food at Playa Escambron
- When you get hungry, you can eat at Kiosko El Escambron serving traditional Puerto Rican fried foods, drinks, and a few other snacks. It is located on the main beach (Playa 8)
- Restaurante Escambrón Beach Club Tel: (787) 724-3344 Escambron.com
- You will also find food trucks with ice cream, candy, and a few beach items for sale.
Services at Playa Escambron
- Playa 8 has a lifeguard
- Ramp for individuals with a disability offering access to the beach. If you require assistance ask the person at the entry ticket booth for more information.
- The amphitheater can be rented with a capacity of 15,000 people.
- Restrooms – You may want to bring a roll of toilet paper / wet wipes, and antibacterial lotion just in case they’re out of paper and soap – especially on a holiday or weekend when the beach gets the most visitors.
- Outdoor rinsing showers
Fees & Parking - Playa Escambron
Entry to the beach is free if you drive in is $6 per car. Rates subject to change.
Gallery - Playa El Escambron (Balneario de Escambron)
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Map of Balneario El Escambron
San Juan, Puerto RicoSan Juan Puerto Rico ⏐ Best Beaches in Puerto Rico ⏐ San Juan Beaches ⏐ Balneario El Escambron
