Playa Puerto Hermina — Attraction in Quebradillas

The island of Puerto Rico, like the rest of the Caribbean, was no stranger to piracy during the Spanish colonization. Today, the most common association with them is the northwestern town of Quebradillas, nicknamed La Guarida del Pirata(“The Pirate’s Hideout”). Along the Quebradillas coastline lie the remains of an old port that locals believe was once a popular place for contraband and piracy.

The ruins of Puerto Hermina (also known as Puerto Mina) are best known for a small 18th-century masonry fortification near the coast. In the past, the structure had a wooden roof, door, and windows, which were lost through time. The structure’s purpose is somewhat debatable. Popular belief claims that it was a former military post, but its location suggests that it may have been used as a storage site, a wave break, or a customs office.

Some historians suggest that Puerto Hermina was a smuggling site due to its remote location and difficult access, attracting many ships to conduct illegal businesses with the locals. This means the port most likely attracted pirates as well. It is believed that the cliffs surrounding the port were an ideal place to hide their stolen goods. According to a local legend, Puerto Rico’s most famous pirate, Cofresí, used Puerto Hermina as a hideout. Since he was very charitable to the local people in need, the locals supported and protected him from the law.

The small fort was abandoned and forgotten by the end of the 19th century. It was rediscovered in 1952, and today Puerto Hermina is one of the top attractions in Quebradillas. Besides the small fort, the area offers a beautiful view of the coast and the beach is a popular fishing and surfing spot. Another curiosity is the Indian head carved in stone, by the cliffs...

This is a hideaway beach on a dead end Highway 4485 . It is good only to enjoy the tranquility and the scenery because the water is too rough to bathe, typical of the waters of Puerto Rico's north coast. There were half of a dozen cars on a Saturday afternoon when I got there.

A section of the road just before the beach is very steep and with a very tight curve. To and from, I had to use the opposite lane to maneuver the curve with my 20-ft pickup truck. Due to the steepness of the hill going up (on my return trip), my back tires lost traction on the curve. Remember, I had to use the opposite lane here which, in my estimate, is a 300-degree bend. Luckily there was no vehicle coming down then because if that was the case, it would be dangerous and very difficult for any one of us to reverse. My truck is a 2x4 and had no load on the bed. Simply too dangerous for any large vehicle...

Playa Puerto Hermina, if you're visiting Puerto Rico, Playa Puerto Hermina is a must-see! Located about an hour and a half drive from San Juan, this beach offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and adventure.

The short hike down to the beach is easy and incredibly scenic, with plenty of beautiful photo opportunities along the way. The highlight here is the famous rectangle rock structures. Between the crashing waves, lush greenery, and rustic stone ruins, every corner feels like a postcard.

It's a peaceful spot, great for a quick escape from the crowds. Whether you're exploring the trails, snapping photos, or simply relaxing by the shore, Playa Puerto Hermina is a place you’ll remember. Highly recommend adding it to your Puerto...