With its deep-blue swimming hole and rock formations that have been formed over millions of years, Cuevas Arenales is a cave complex attracting adventurous travelers and nature lovers alike. Often touted as one of Puerto Rico’s must-visit caves, it offers scenic hikes, hidden springs, underground cave paths, and idyllic swimming spots.
Cuevas Arenales is often visited on small-group tours from popular tourist areas in San Juan. Travelers typically choose guided tours to lead the way on tested routes through the caves and provide essential equipment such as life jackets. These tours also tend to include opportunities for fording underground rivers, swimming, exploring underground caves, visiting hidden springs, and stopping at points of interest throughout the cave complex.
Be ready to get wet during a cave tour, as the route typically involves pathways through bodies of water.
Bring swimwear and good footwear such as water shoes, as the hike can be slippery.
Good physical fitness is required.
Due to steep and irregular terrain, hiking here isn’t advisable for young children.
The area is not wheelchair-accessible.
It takes roughly 45 minutes to drive to Cuevas Arenales Cave from the San Juan area, so it may be preferable to go on a guided tour that offers round-trip transport. If you’re driving from San Juan, take Route 22 west to Exit 35, then Route 160 South towards the Cuevas Arenales area. Parking is available nearby.
Due to the site’s popularity, it’s best to visit earlier in the day to avoid potential crowds. If you’re driving, there’s also a higher chance of getting a parking spot earlier in the morning, as parking is limited in the area. The best time to visit is during the shoulder season from mid-April to June, which has mild weather and fewer crowds than winter and summer.
Puerto Rico has dozens of spectacular caves where travelers can enjoy sporty activities such as rock climbing, rafting, hiking, and rappelling. In addition to Cuevas Arenales, it’s worth checking out Cañon de Tanamá near the Utuado river. Río Camuy Cave Park is known for its gigantic cave systems with stalagmites, stalactites, and sinkholes. Another notable cave is Cueva del Viento, which is located in Guajataca State Forest in Isabela.
