Puerto Rico Beach is one of the hidden treasures located near the city of Dakhla in Western Sahara, Morocco. Known for its remote charm, golden sands, and dramatic coastal cliffs, this beach is ideal for travelers looking for tranquility, natural beauty, and raw adventure. Despite the name, the beach has no connection with the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. Instead, it carries the name locally, possibly due to historical references or the beach’s pristine appearance which may remind some of tropical coastlines.
Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Puerto Rico Beach is less commercialized compared to other beaches around Dakhla, offering a peaceful escape with striking ocean views and opportunities for exploration. It's especially popular among surfers, campers, and off-the-beaten-path explorers who are drawn to its wild, untouched character.
Getting to Puerto Rico Beach requires a bit of planning, as it is located outside the main town of Dakhla. The beach is roughly 35 to 40 kilometers south of Dakhla city, accessible primarily via off-road routes. The most convenient way to reach it is by hiring a 4x4 vehicle or joining an organized tour that includes off-road transportation and sometimes a camping experience.
First, you’ll need to fly into Dakhla Airport, which is served by flights from major Moroccan cities like Casablanca and Marrakech, and sometimes international flights. From the airport or Dakhla city center, visitors can rent a vehicle or book a guided excursion. It is highly recommended to use a local guide or tour operator familiar with the area since road signage is minimal and the route involves driving over sandy and rugged terrain.
Puerto Rico Beach enjoys a mild desert-coastal climate throughout the year. Temperatures are usually comfortable, thanks to the Atlantic Ocean's moderating effect. Summers (June to September) are warm with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winters (December to February) are mild and range between 15°C and 22°C (59°F to 72°F).
Winds are common in the Dakhla region, making the weather ideal for water sports but slightly chilly at times, especially in the evenings. Visitors should dress in layers and bring wind protection. Rainfall is extremely rare, making it a reliable year-round destination.
The best time to visit Puerto Rico Beach is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant, and the winds are moderate. These seasons provide ideal conditions for beach outings, picnics, surfing, or photography.
Due to the remote nature of the beach, most visitors spend part of the day there and return before dark, unless camping overnight. Visiting during daylight hours is strongly advised for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
Puerto Rico Beach is famous for its raw, natural beauty and secluded atmosphere. Unlike more developed tourist beaches, it offers visitors a sense of true escape. Its high coastal cliffs and wide sandy stretches provide a dramatic and peaceful setting.
The beach is especially well-known among adventure seekers, surfers, and off-road travelers. It also attracts photographers and campers due to its stunning sunsets and lack of artificial light pollution, making it a great spot for stargazing.
Puerto Rico Beach is a public beach with no entry fee. However, since there are no permanent facilities or shops at the site, all supplies, including food, water, and camping gear, must be brought by the visitors. Guided tours or excursions usually include transportation, food, and sometimes overnight camping arrangements.
It is crucial to travel with a reliable vehicle, preferably a 4x4, and carry a GPS or go with someone familiar with the terrain. The beach is completely natural and isolated, so travelers must be self-sufficient and prepared for the outdoors.
Puerto Rico Beach does not have any buildings or man-made structures, as it is a natural site. Its value lies in its unspoiled landscape, shaped by natural forces over thousands of years. The high cliffs that line parts of the beach are geologically interesting and offer excellent panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline.
The surrounding region of Dakhla has a long history of Sahrawi culture and nomadic traditions. Although the beach itself lacks historical structures, the broader region offers glimpses into local traditions, with tents, camel herders, and simple dwellings dotting the desert landscape.
While the beach is remote and lacks modern entertainment facilities, it offers plenty of natural activities for outdoor lovers: