4 Best Sights in El Combate, Rincón and the Porta del Sol

The crescent-shape strand is the most secluded, and beautiful, of the area's beaches. It's commonly referred to as "Playa Sucia" (Dirty Beach) by locals, because of the blankets of seaweed that drift to shore during winter months. The label is rather unfitting for the white sand and turquoise waters that mark the island's southwestern corner, reachable by way of a dirt road lined with mangroves. Amenities: none. Best for: hiking; swimming.

The Cabo Rojo Salt Flats Interpretive Center has two-hour guided tours along nature trails and a small display about the salt flats. The best part of the center is a massive observation tower that lets you scan the outline of Cabo Rojo itself. Next to the main building is an audiovisual center where presentations on marine ecosystems and bird migration are offered.

This great beach draws large crowds on weekends to its rustic waterfront eateries and calm waters. You can rent small boats and kayaks here. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: partiers; swimming.

The area's most popular attraction is this neoclassical lighthouse, dating from 1881. The magnificent structure, built on a limestone cliff, has amazing views of the Caribbean Sea. It is open to the public, and you are free to hike around the rugged terrain or relax on La Playuela or one of the other pink-sand beaches nearby. There are no facilities here, so bring water, food, and sunscreen.