Reached by a fifteen-minute walk along a streambed from a pull-off west of Esperanza, Playa Negra is one of the few black-sand beaches in Puerto Rico. The dark sand comes from volcanic and mineral deposits washed down from the hills behind, and the contrast against turquoise water and white surf is striking.
The beach is small and the currents can be strong — it is more a photograph stop than a swimming beach. Bring closed shoes for the walk in; the streambed has loose stones. The trailhead is unmarked but locals know it; ask for "Playa Negra" or look for parked cars.