Community Favorites – A Snapshot of What Makes Us, Us
Every community has its landmarks, parks, events, and hidden corners that feel like home. Our 2025 Community Favorites winners are the spots and experiences that shape our daily lives and give our region its character. From local traditions to new discoveries, these selections remind us why this community is such a special place to live.
Community Favorites Winners-Rincón, Aguada, Añasco
Best Selfie Spot
El Faro de Rincón
El Faro de Rincón is a favorite for selfies, offering the lighthouse and open coastal views as a backdrop. It’s easy to frame yourself with the ocean and shoreline, making every shot distinctly Rincón.
Other Reader Recommenations
- Black Eagle Beach
- Mirador de Añasco
- Pirámide de Aguada
- Steps Beach
Best Photo Opportunity
El Faro de Rincón
Not just for selfies. Perched at the tip of Rincón, El Faro offers sweeping views of the coastline and rugged waves. It’s a place where the landscape itself takes center stage.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Earthship-Aguada
- Plaza Cristóbal Colón (Aguada)
- Statue of the drowning of Diego Salcedo-Añasco
- Tres Palmas
- Túnel de Rincón
Best Spot to take Out-of-Town Guests
Ruta de Sabor del Campo Chinchorreo
The Ruta de Sabor del Campo is a scenic and culinary route through the mountains and towns of Aguada, Añasco, and Rincón. Perfect for visitors, it combines picturesque drives along PR‑419, PR‑411, and PR‑412 with stops at local eateries, bars, and panoramic restaurants. Guests can enjoy traditional dishes, regional drinks, and fresh local produce, experiencing the flavors and culture of western Puerto Rico.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Artwalk
- Black Eagle Beach
- Lighthouse (El Faro de Rincón)
- Pirámide de Aguada
- Tres Palmas
- Último Brinco
Best Place for a “Staycation“
Hotel Villa Cofresí
As Rincón’s oldest hotel and a longtime local favorite, Hotel Villa Cofresi offers oceanfront dining, seasonal pool passes in the summer, and comfortable accommodations perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether stopping by for lunch, enjoying dinner by the water, or spending a full stay, it’s a classic spot for relaxation.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Aqua Marina Beach Club
- The English Rose
- Rincón Beach Resort
- Rincón (general)
Best Place to Meet New People
Artwalk – Rincón
Held weekly in Rincón’s plaza, Artwalk is more than just a chance to explore local art — it’s the town’s weekly social scene, where friends catch up, neighbors chat, and you might even hear a little gossip while enjoying music, food, and good company.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Black Eagle Beach
- Campo Alegre
- El Ancla
- Harbor Restaurant
- Ruta de Sabor del Campo Chinchorreo
Best Community Event or Festival
Artwalk – Rincón
We told you it’s a favorite!
Other Reader Recommendatins
- Día del Descubrimiento – Aguada
- Fiestas Patronales – Aguada
- Fiestas Patronales – Rincón
- Pride Rincón
- Volkyfest
Best Local Tradition
Rincón Desfile de Carretas de Bueyes
The Desfile de Carretas de Bueyes is a cultural and traditional event in Rincón, featuring a massive parade of ox-drawn carts with hundreds of participants.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Encendido de Navidad-Añasco
- Noche de San Juan-Pico de Piedra
- Procesión de la Virgen del Carmen
Best Volunteer or Nonprofit Organization
Rincón Water Safety
Rincón Water Safety is a nonprofit dedicated to keeping Puerto Rico’s beaches safer for everyone. Through their Beach Guardians program, they offer free training in CPR, AED use, and basic rescue skills, empowering locals and visitors alike. They’ve also installed rescue torpedoes and AEDs along key beaches
Other Reader Recommendations
- ARF
- Barks of Hope
- For Such a Time as This
- Isla Mar
- The Family Church
Best Park or Plaza
Plaza Pública de Rincón
Rincón’s plaza is a popular destination on the island, drawing both locals and visitors. With restaurants, bars, and shops surrounding the open space, it serves as the town’s social and cultural hub, where music, art, and community come together.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Balneario Pico de Piedra
- Balneario Tres Hermanos
- Cruz de Colón
- Plaza Pública de Aguada
Best Artisan/Craft/Farmers’ Market
Art Walk-Rincón
Artwalk in Rincón’s plaza is a weekly highlight for locals and visitors alike. Beyond showcasing local art, crafts, and handmade goods, it’s a bustling marketplace where you can shop directly from artisans while enjoying music, food, and Rincón’s social scene.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Aguada Farmers’ Market
- Buena Vida Farmers’ Market-Rincón
- Noche de Artesanos-Añasco
- Saturday Craft Market-Aguada
Best Place to Learn About Local History/Culture
La Escuela de la Cultura-Rincón
La Escuela de la Cultura in Rincón offers a rich experience in local history and art. With five galleries to explore and a dedicated space honoring former mayors and Puerto Rican governors, the school is a hub for both cultural heritage and contemporary creativity. It’s open weekdays, with extended hours on Thursdays, and group visits can be arranged on weekends.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Aguada Cultural Tours
- Casa Museo de Aguada
- Rincón Surf Photography Museum
Community Favorites Winners-The Rest of the West
(Not in Rincón, Aguada or Añasco)
Best Selfie Spot
Crashboat Beach
Located in Aguadilla, Crashboat Beach is a classic selfie spot with its turquoise waters, sandy shoreline, and iconic pier. The vibrant scenery and clear ocean views make it perfect for capturing memorable moments on Puerto Rico’s northwest coast.
Other Reader Recommendations
- El Faro-Cabo Rojo
- Las Ruinas de Aguadilla
- Pozo de Jacinto (We Strongly Urge Caution)
Best Photo Opportunity
Gozalandia Waterfalls-San Sebastián
Gozalandia Waterfalls in San Sebastián offers stunning natural scenery, with cascading falls, lush greenery, and serene swimming areas. It’s an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers looking to capture the beauty of Puerto Rico’s interior landscapes.
Other Reader Recommendations
- El Faro-Cabo Rojo
- Porta Coeli-San German
- The Cara del Indio-Isabela
- Túnel de Guajataca-Isabela
Best Spot to take Out-of-Town Guests
Paseo Real Marina-Aguadilla
Paseo Real in Aguadilla is a lively waterfront promenade where visitors can stroll, enjoy food and drink from kiosks, and take in views of the boats and coastline.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Balneario de Boquerón
- El Faro-Cabo Rojo
- Gozalandia Waterfalls-San Sebastián
- Hacienda Mis Abuelos
- Paseo Real Marina-Aguadilla
Best Place for a “Staycation“
Royal Isabela
Located on Puerto Rico’s Atlantic coast, Royal Isabela is a luxury resort set on an 1,800-acre nature reserve. With 20 private casitas, stunning ocean views, and a world-class golf course, it offers the perfect blend of seclusion, comfort, and unforgettable experiences for a relaxing staycation.
Other Reader Recommendaions
- Hotel El Guajataca
- Mayagüez Resort & Casino
- Villa Montaña Beach Resort
Best Place to Meet New People
Crashboat Beach
Crashboat Beach in Aguadilla isn’t just for pictures — it’s also a social hub where locals and tourists mingle. With food kiosks, beach activities, and a lively atmosphere, especially during the summer, it’s a great spot to meet new people
Other Reader Recommendations
- Aguadilla Shark Roller Rink
- Cocoloba Beach Bar-Aguadilla
- Jobos Beach
- Ola Lola’s-Isabela
- Viernes de Salsa en Isabela
Best Community Event or Festival
Corona Pro Surf-Isabela
The Corona Pro Surf Circuit is Puerto Rico’s premier surf competition, held annually in Isabela. It draws elite surfers from around the world and thousands of spectators, combining high-level competition with music, food, and a festive atmosphere.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Arte en el Paseo-Aguadilla
- Hammock Festival-San Sebastián
- Moca Nights
- Viernes de Salsa en Isabela
Best Local Tradition
Encendido Navideño-La Parguera
The Encendido Navideño in La Parguera is a festive holiday tradition unique for its seaside setting. Unlike other Christmas lighting events, it combines colorful decorations with coastal views, local music, and community gatherings, creating a lively and picturesque celebration that blends Puerto Rican holiday spirit with the charm of this waterfront village.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Festival de la Candelaria-Mayagüez
- Hammock Festival-San Sebastián
- Noches de Artesanías-Isabela
Best Volunteer or Nonprofit Organization
Santuario de Animales San Francisco de Asís
The Santuario de Animales San Francisco de Asís is a shelter dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming abandoned and mistreated cats and dogs. It provides long-term care for animals that aren’t adopted and promotes responsible pet ownership through outreach and education, making a lasting impact on the local community.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Cooperativa de Artes Culturales de Puerto Rico
- Coqui Yo Foundation
- Fundación para las Artes Musicales de Mayagüez
- La Casa de Cultura Isabelina
- Sea Grant Puerto Rico
Best Park or Plaza
Balneario de Boquerón
Balneario de Boquerón is a popular beach park known for its calm waters, sandy shoreline, and family-friendly amenities; including picnic areas, parking, restrooms, water sports rentals, and nearby restaurants.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Paseo Real Marina-Aguadilla
- Plaza de la Independencia-San Germán
- Plaza Pública Manuel Corchado y Juarbe-Isabela
Best Artisan/Craft/Farmers’ Market
Aguadilla Farmers’ Market
Held on Saturday mornings, the Aguadilla Farmers’ Market is a great place to find local produce, handmade crafts, and artisan goods.
Other Reader Recommendations
- Arte en el Paseo-Aguadilla
- Entre Café, Música y Arte-Mayagüez
- Noches de Artesanías-Isabela
Best Place to Learn About Local History/Culture
Museo del Mundillo-Moca
The Museo del Mundillo in Moca celebrates the town’s rich tradition of handmade bobbin lace, known as “mundillo.” Visitors can explore historic lace pieces, traditional tools, and educational displays, and even participate in workshops to learn the craft firsthand.
Other Reader Recommendations
- El Museo de Arte y Cultura de San Germán
- La Casa de Cultura Isabelina
- Museo de Arte de Aguadilla y del Caribe