Snorkeling at Steps Beach

One of the fun things we like to do here at the Lemontree is take guests out on snorkeling safaris. Our favorite beach for snorkeling has some of the best off-shore sites in all of Puerto Rico-Steps Beach. It is located off Carr 413 and is marked by a blue whale sign (Playa Escalera). Park anywhere along the little road leading up to the beach from 413.

From the small dirt lane emerging out onto the beach turn left and walk down the beach about 30-50 yards or so. Although tempting, don't try to enter the water over the beach rocks... find a sand channel. Once in the water, swim to the right and you will see the reef. It curves and you can either follow the curve into about 15 feet of water or swim directly over the top of the reef in about 4 feet. In addition to healthy coral, like the elk horn pictured above, there are schools of tropical fish, turtles, and gently swaying sea fans. Take it nice and slowly so you will see everything...snorkeling is for dawdling! Go with a buddy and stay close enough to each other you you can share the experience.

Stay out until you think you might become tired (remember you have to kick back to shore) and then come back in via your entry point-again, not over the rocks. If you bring a towel and some drinks and find shade on the beach which is fringed by palms, its a nice place to set up for your "unwinding after the snorkeling" time. You can also take a break and then head back out.

Our favorite time to go is in the morning... about 9:30 or 10:00 a.m.. The morning has the least wind... which means the calmest water. The morning time means that the sun will be up enough to give good penetrating light to reef but not so blazing that you will be uncomfortable. Don't forget to sunscreen the backs of your legs and back!

For more on a Rincon holiday, Rincon Puerto Rico.