Puerto Rico has long captivated surfers from around the globe, who often cite a plethora of reasons for their affection for the island. With its warm turquoise and navy waters, Puerto Rico boasts powerful waves that have earned it the nickname “Hawaii of the Atlantic.” Local surfing legends such as Dylan Graves, Brian Toth, and Otto Flores honed their skills on the island’s world-class waves, establishing themselves as internationally recognized talents.
While its stunning surf is a major attraction, Puerto Rico offers much more than just waves. Each year, surfers from Florida to New York and beyond flock to the island, drawn by its tropical climate and consistent swells that grace its shores for approximately eight months of the year. However, La Isla del Encanto holds deeper charms.
Otto Flores, a seasoned traveler and local surfer, emphasizes the unique appeal of Puerto Rico: “I have traveled the world, and I have infinite reasons to call this place home. Since the late 1960s, Puerto Rico has hosted significant surf events, showcasing a unique coastline that has produced champions from around the globe. Despite its tranquility, Puerto Rico is a wave-rich destination filled with magic, flavor, and warmth. We call it ‘Sazón,’ and it permeates everything we do.”
The island’s rich history is reflected in its vibrant culture, deeply influenced by the indigenous Taino people, along with Spanish and African traditions. This cultural blend is evident in the local cuisine, music, and dance, infusing life into the streets, clubs, and surf.
In a recent collaboration, renowned surfer and cultural enthusiast Mikey February teamed up with Dylan Graves to explore the surf near Graves’ home in Isabela, Puerto Rico. Their episode of Weird Waves not only focused on surfing but also highlighted the island’s culinary delights and the infectious rhythms of salsa, merengue, plena, and bomba music—sonic treasures that echo Puerto Rico’s spirit.
“It’s definitely hard to say no when it’s this beautiful,” Mikey remarked upon encountering a picturesque wave surrounded by lush tropical scenery. The duo experienced one of the most fascinating wave setups ever seen, further solidifying Puerto Rico as a must-visit destination.
Even Kelly Slater, regarded as the greatest of all time, has fond memories of the island. In 2010, he delivered one of the best performances of his career at the Rip Curl Pro Search, where he clinched his tenth world title—albeit overshadowed by the news of rival Andy Irons’ passing. Although the World Surf League (WSL) has not hosted an event in Puerto Rico since then, excitement is brewing with the recent announcement of the La Marginal Pro, a WQS-level 3,000 event scheduled for October 30 to November 3, 2024.
As the island continues to resonate in the minds of surfers and travelers alike, it is crucial to honor its rich heritage. Whether experienced firsthand or known through stories, Puerto Rico is home to 3.4 million residents who proudly identify as Boricua, a name that pays tribute to their Taino ancestry and cultural pride. Viva Boricua! Viva Puerto Rico!
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