Tres Palmas
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.
Tres Palmas surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (320°)
- Direction range
- 290° - 350°
- Size range
- 2m - 6m
- Ideal size
- 3.8m - 5m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (140°)
- Offshore range
- 100° - 180°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
26°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
9/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Marine reserve. Respect protected area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Tres Palmas?
The Tres Palmas profile favors mid to high tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Tres Palmas?
The Tres Palmas profile uses wind from SE (140°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 100° to 180°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Tres Palmas?
The Tres Palmas scoring profile favors swell from NW (290° to 350°), a swell-height range of 2m to 6m, and a reference period of 16s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Tres Palmas?
The main season at Tres Palmas is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. November-March. Big NW swells.
How do I get to Tres Palmas?
The spot profile lists BQN as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 25 minutes. Marine reserve. Respect protected area.
What kind of wave is Tres Palmas?
Tres Palmas is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 9/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
November-March. Big NW swells.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Marias
🌴 Rincón's long right • Multiple sections • Classic Caribbean
Dogman's
🐕 Between the icons • Hollow reef peaks • Rincón's hidden power
Domes
☢️ Nuclear barrels • Rincón's crown jewel • Winter swell magnet
Rincon
🇵🇷 Caribbean surf capital • Winter NW swells • Multiple world-class breaks
Indicators
📊 Rincón's size indicator • Big wave option • Quality when maxed
Surfer's Beach Aguadilla
🏆 1998 World Champ venue • Extended rights • PR surf history
Plan a trip around Tres Palmas
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