Crash Boat Beach in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, Before and After Maria

Before Hurricane Maria (Figure 2) ravaged the Caribbean coast, Crash Boat Beach in Aguadilla was a popular spot for tourists. It was the perfect place to take a swim, play beach volleyball and enjoy great sunsets. The water was clear and warm, and there were kiosks selling food and drinks at the pier.

After Hurricane Maria swept through Puerto Rico last fall, the shoreline here was nearly destroyed. The beach is a lot smaller than it was before the storm, but it’s still a beautiful scene to see.

The beach’s currents have pushed a fresh, brand new carpet of sand over the area, making it much prettier and lighter than before. It’s also less crowded than before, so you’ll be able to experience a more local, laid-back vibe.

This is an excellent location to snorkel, especially during the spring and summer when there’s a good amount of life in the reef. You can find plenty of fish, including blue tangs and baby barracudas.

You’ll have to be careful to avoid the rip currents along the pier, as these can be dangerous and can even pull you under water. The pier is a favorite fishing spot, and it’s fun to jump off into the water from it or even just walk along it with your feet on the ledge.

When you’re here, be sure to visit Cocoloba, a cafeteria that serves traditional Puerto Rican appetizers and refreshing coconut water. If you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, there are several restaurants a short drive away.

It’s also possible to rent surf boards and kayaks, or to order a diving tour to sunken military boats and planes. The beach is also a great place to hang out with friends, and it’s a popular destination for families.

The fishing pier is another popular spot at Crash Boat, where you can watch fishermen and sunbathers. You can also enjoy the view of pelicans, which are frequently seen strutting in and out of the waters. The pier is a safe spot for jumping into the water, and you can take your kids or even daredevils to try their luck at diving from it.

During the spring and summer, you’ll notice that the water gets very shallow and clear along the rocks at the north end of the beach. This is a great place to go for swimming and snorkeling, as you’ll be able to see hidden caves that are under the rocks.

You’ll probably want to check the water quality before you head here as there’s a good chance that it may be cloudy or unsafe due to bacteria from the river that runs near the beach. You can get a good idea of the quality of the water by visiting Junta de Calidad Ambiental’s website, which will post updates on the water.

There are several kiosks along the pier, which are a great spot to get some snacks or drinks while you wait for the sunset. This area is also a popular spot for sunbathers and fishermen, so be prepared to encounter some large crowds during the day.