Villa Tropical Oceanfront Apartments on Shacks Beach

Trevor and Jennifer will feel like family even before arriving. This lively, personable (and funny!) couple, who were married on a dive boat, once had a corporate life in Chicago. These days they have a full-time job running 29 vacation apartment rentals with their kids in tow -- this cool expat life is what attracted many of the same kind of people to buy second homes on this very beach, which they now manage as vacation rentals while the owners are away. Those attracted to the property are families, groups, and couples who prefer a homey environment with more space than found a typical hotel or resort (of which there are none in sight). Before arriving, guests will likely have had a at least one phone conversation with the staff to go over unit availability and options -- units are booked directly only (no third party). Guests will also want to call in advance to get specific driving directions, as the road and entrance is tricky. When found, guests can look for the main blue and white Villa Tropical building, which has a surfer theme, a front-facing deck for sunbathing, and houses six units. A covered staircase from the deck patio leads to a pretty stretch of beach. In the office -- where Trevor or a member of the team are usually working -- are rentals such as surfboards, paddleboards, snorkel gear, and boogie boards, as well as sundries, snacks, and beverages. Coffee and conversation is offered here in the morning. Since every apartment has its own kitchen, guests tend to do their own grocery shopping and cooking. A few units share outdoor space and guests may run into each other here, or walking back and forth from the front office, but for the most part, guests tend to stick to themselves. Trevor and Jennifer, however, know the beach well and are more than willing to introduce some of the local characters as well as share stories from the enclave. 

Shacks Beach, tucked away on a side road along the northwest coast, is out of sight and out of (everyone else's) mind. This is an area of Puerto Rico known as Porta del Sol, "Doorway to the Sun" -- a popular tourism term to describe the entire west coast of the island, which has stunning sunsets. Guests can access the hub of Aguadilla which holds Puerto Rico's second largest airport, Rafael Hernandez, for daily flights from the U.S. (mostly from the east coast). The property is an easy 15-minute drive from this airport, or visitors can fly into San Juan airport and make the two-hour drive on paved roads. Guests will strongly want to consider renting a car so that they can have access to the grocery store (all apartments have kitchens) and Costco. (A few essentials are sold in the lobby.) There are nearby restaurants and bars -- including some great ethnic choices -- as well as other attractions in the area near the towns of Isabela and Rincon. The small staff at Villa Tropical are more than happy to offer local advice for a range of activities. 

There are 29 units in eight different buildings called “villa compounds. Each is individually owned, and each has its own set of pros and cons. Units are either facing the ocean or across the quiet street, just a few feet from the shore along Shacks Beach. The majority of units are on the ocean side (18) while the other 11 are not. Apartments range from economic studios, to one-, two- and three- bedrooms. Maid service is weekly only, but guests can pay more for additional cleanings. Front porches and patios have barbecues (tank refills are free), and each unit has AC and ceiling fans. Every apartment has a full kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, pots, pans, dishes and utensils, coffeemakers, blender. Linens and towels are provided as well as dish detergent, soap, and toilet paper. Decor and amenities of units range depending on the owner’s taste and it's best to have a phone conversation with a member of staff to determine what unit is most appropriate for the situation; in fact, the direct bookings practically require a phone conversation (no third-party sites have inventory). Some units have their own laundry facilities, otherwise there is a coin operated machine on-site. 

One of the best features here is in the name -- Shacks beach. This beautiful, albeit rocky, stretch of sand has room for nice walks along the shore. There are views of the turquoise blue water from many of the units, and they are spectacular at sunset. For swimming, it's best to ask the staff for a map (there's even a digital one in the office) on the best places to enjoy the water, since the current can be strong in areas. Water sports available to guests at Villa Tropical include snorkeling, surfing, kite-surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. The hotel lends out snorkel gear, surf boards, and four paddleboards for a daily or weekly fee. Boogie boards are offered for free. Also popular is the coral reef and system of underwater caves and passageways nearby -- great for snorkeling and scuba diving (recommended instructors and certification are available). Surfing conditions depend on the time of year. If there is not a swell here, there are plenty of waves within a 15-minute drive. The VT Gift Shop & Convenience Store in the front office -- open during the daytime -- sells essentials such as diapers, sunblock and toiletries, juices, soft drinks, spirits, beer and wine and packaged snacks. Fisherman make regular trips to Shacks Beach to sell freshly caught items to locals and guests from the boat. For more adventure sports not offered on the property, including mountain biking, scuba diving, and horseback riding, the owners recommend operators and a group called Aquatica, close to Shacks Beach. Parking is free and each unit includes at least one spot. Three bedrooms have two parking spots. There is coin operated laundry on-site for units without a washer and dryer. Free and reliable Wi-Fi is available in most units. Those who require Wi-Fi for work should make sure to mention this during the booking process.