Accessible Waterfalls in Puerto Rico

Waterfalls less than 5 mins from your parked car

Puerto Rico is home to many beautiful waterfalls, some more accessible than others. Here are some we’ve picked that can be found within a 5 minute walk from your parked car.

El Yunque

https://www.fs.usda.gov/elyunque

The park is open 7:30 AM-6:00 PM, no entrance after 5:00 PM. 

PR-191, Río Grande 00745, Puerto Rico 

In El Yunque, drive up past the visitors center and show your ticket ($2 for a timed day pass on recreation.gov which must be purchased in advance) just before the 85’ La Coca falls. The falls are on the right just past the entrance. There is parking close by. You can see it from the car and it’s great for those that can’t walk far. No swimming allowed at these falls, but it’s a great picture spot. Parking, bathrooms and gift shop nearby. Parking available in designated spots for a 30 minute limit only. 

Juan Diego falls is also in the park boundary and easily accessible from the road. About .2 KM from parking, a 5 min walk to the falls. The steps can be treacherous and slippery so probably best for those that can easily climb them. Nearby parking has a 30 minute limit so keep that in mind. 

Cascada Gozalandia 

Open 7 days per week, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

9268+5GG, Sec Lechuza, San Sebastián 00685, Puerto Rico

Cascada Gozalandia in San Sebastián is an easy hike on paved trail access. It’s $10 for parking nearby. The trail is steep in parts but if you have mobility issues, there’s an overlook above to view the falls. There are two falls and swimming holes to enjoy. A rope swing and places to jump off rocks (watch locals first to make sure it's safe!). The pools are a favorite for families to spend the day and enjoy. The first fall is about a 4 minute walk from the parking area. The pathway can get slippery when wet. The second fall is an additional ¼ mile walk away from the first. There is a food and beverage kiosk available near the entrance. Restrooms and seating are also nearby.

El Salto Collores Waterfall 

Open Monday-Saturday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed Sundays. 

For Google Maps: 18.114525,-66.544244

El Salto Collores Waterfall in Juana Díaz is accessible via private property. The owner charges $10 for parking and access. It is well maintained and clean. There are cabanas and bathrooms to use. The falls make for a good day trip from Ponce. It is advisable to bring a cooler and chairs. Owner speaks Spanish only. Enjoy the 30 foot waterfall with a swimming hole. 

From the San Juan area, take Route 52 south toward Ponce. At exit 91, take Route 149 north for 1 mile. Turn left onto Route 14, and continue for about 2 miles. Then turn right onto Road 512 (before the Puma gas station). Continue to KM 7.3, then turn left, and follow that road to the end (where you’ll find the gate with a sign that says “Estancias L-E”). If the gate is open, they are open. If it’s not open and it is during their regular hours you can honk to be let in. 

Chorro Dona Juana 

Always open, be aware of weather for flash floods.

5FMQ+473, PR-149, Orocovis 00766, Puerto Rico

Chorro Dona Juana near Orocovis is visible from the road. Parking is extremely limited and can be dangerous along the road, so consider the type of car you take and be careful when finding a spot. There is a swimmable pool below the falls but it is a bit of a challenge to reach the pool.  The drive there can be a bit nerve wracking if you aren’t familiar with Puerto Rico's windy roads and driving etiquette. There is a chinchorro nearby for snacks and drinks.