Tres Palmas is the Caribbean's big wave proving ground—a powerful right-hand reef break in Rincón, Puerto Rico, that transforms into a legitimate big wave arena when massive northwest swells funnel into this corner of the island. Protected as a marine sanctuary, the reef creates perfect, heavy walls that can hold triple-overhead surf and beyond, drawing big wave riders from across the Americas when conditions align. The surrounding elkhorn coral ecosystem adds ecological significance to what is already Puerto Rico's most respected wave. This is where Caribbean surfing reaches its upper limits.
Water temp
26°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
9/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Marine reserve. Respect protected area.
Forecasts are validated against real-time buoy data.
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
November-March. Big NW swells.
Verified by Puerto Rico big wave community
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions