Charco Azul. Puerto Rico’s Secret Swimming PARADISE!
If you find yourself in Puerto Rico, hot and in need of an swim, CHARCO AZUL is the perfect quick trip. Located slightly west of San Juan, just past Dorado, in the mountains, Charco Azul is one of the lesser known spots to explore. Which makes it perfect because you're more than likely to have the place to yourself. It features a magical cave with a river running through, small waterfalls and plenty of rocks to jump off of.
After turning off the main road, you will see the signs that point you in the right direction. about 3 minutes down that road you will see $5 parking signs. I strongly advise you parking here as although you can drive further, the road gets super steep, and i’ve seen cars get stuck down there when its wet, also i’ve heard rumours of cars getting broken into there, so for $5 parking at the locals house is a pretty good deal. The owner is super nice, and he’ll direct you where to go.
The spot is a easy ten minute walk from here. You will follow the road down till the first left. Here you will see some signs. Take note of them as they have important information about flash floods. A few minutes further down the road, you’ll see a old pumping station on your right, you’ll follow the road round, then up another small hill before reaching a dirt track. Follow this until you get to the stream. walk with the water upstream until it starts to get deep. You’re just seconds away. You’ll see a small stoney area to the right (see pictures), I’d advise leaving your stuff there as you’ve arrived. To get to the caves. swim out into the deeper water and you see the caves on the left. There are some awesome rock jumps, most of the area is deep, but check for underwater rocks first.
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