Tocones is a surf spot located in Puerto Rico that offers a unique experience for surfers willing to hunt down its elusive waves. While it's not the most consistent break out there, when the conditions align, it can deliver some exciting surfing. The access is pretty straightforward; just park close by and support the locals with a couple bucks since you're parking in their area.
The wave at Tocones is a right-hand reef break that usually operates best during low tide. It can handle swell sizes from 5 to 8 feet (about 1.5 to 2.4 meters), primarily on northwesterly swells. The bottom is made up of shallow, rock-filled reef, so surfers need to be careful. The ideal wind directions are southeast to southwest, with the most favorable conditions happening during autumn and winter. While it may not be for everyone, expert surfers looking for barrels might find what they want here, as the wave can deliver some serious intensity when it works.
The crowd factor at Tocones is generally low, meaning you might find yourself sharing the waves with just a few fellow surfers. As long as you respect the local vibe, interactions usually stay friendly. Do keep in mind that the shallow lava reef poses a significant hazard, so make sure you're prepared before dropping in.