How a landmark marine reserve in Puerto Rico is protecting waves and ecosystems.
Surfrider Foundation, founded in 1984 by a group of Malibu surfers committed to preserving world-class surf spots, has spent four decades safeguarding coastal environments. In celebration of its efforts, SURFER is highlighting 10 waves that the foundation has helped preserve—and continues to defend. One such spot is Tres Palmas, a powerful, deep-water reef break in Puerto Rico that has become a symbol of the foundation’s dedication to environmental conservation.
Tres Palmas: A Community’s Commitment to Protection
Though Tres Palmas may not be on the radar of global big-wave chasers, it is an iconic location for Puerto Rican surfers. Known for its massive right-hand reef break, the spot shines when north swells hit, attracting locals and visitors alike.
In 2004, Surfrider played a pivotal role in establishing the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at protecting both the wave and the rich biodiversity of the surrounding area, including its fragile coral species. This preservation effort, however, has been an ongoing battle, as Surfrider learned early on that waves, much like the ecosystems they support, are never truly “saved.” They require constant vigilance.
The Challenge of Ongoing Protection
Surfrider’s work in Tres Palmas continues as the area faces challenges, including excessive development, sediment runoff, and pollution. These threats, particularly from runoff in nearby Rincón, have been flagged as violations of the Clean Water Act due to their harmful effects on nearshore waters and the broader marine ecosystem.
In 2011, Surfrider collaborated with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to tackle some of these issues, including the removal of tires and debris from Tres Palmas. In addition, an educational initiative was launched at local schools to raise awareness about environmental issues. Today, Surfrider’s Blue Water Task Force in Rincón actively monitors the water quality around Tres Palmas and works to restore the region’s shoreline habitats.
A Model for Marine Conservation
Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve has become a model for community-driven marine conservation. The reserve’s approach has inspired other regions in Puerto Rico, including the Isla Verde Reef Marine Reserve, founded by local surfer Paco López. López credits Tres Palmas as the guiding example for their own efforts to protect local marine environments.
Héctor Varela-Vélez, Surfrider’s Puerto Rico programs manager, highlights how Tres Palmas has influenced other marine reserve initiatives, such as the Isla Verde Reef in Vega Baja. Not only has the model proven successful in preserving marine ecosystems, but it has also galvanized local surfers, who are more engaged than ever in conservation efforts.
“The creation of Tres Palmas has sparked a group of passionate defenders—the ‘Tres Palmas Crew,'” Varela-Vélez explained. “This group of local surfers is deeply committed to monitoring everything that happens in and around the reserve. Their vigilance has become crucial, especially as construction threatens the surrounding land.”
Community Action Against Development
The most pressing threat to Tres Palmas today is development around the reserve. While Surfrider, local surfers, and other community organizations have worked tirelessly to acquire the surrounding land and expand the reserve, the landowner has refused to sell. These efforts aim to restore the ecosystem with native and endemic plants, further securing the region’s natural heritage.
Despite the setbacks, the community’s commitment to Tres Palmas remains unwavering. Surfrider Rincón, along with other local groups, is on high alert for any changes or threats to the region’s land, air, and waters. This collective effort underscores the success of the Tres Palmas model: a collaborative, multi-sector approach that fosters a strong sense of community ownership and environmental stewardship.
“The impact of creating a community-managed marine reserve goes beyond protecting the environment,” Varela-Vélez said. “It creates a deep sense of belonging and unity. It’s a clear example of how conservation can bring people together to protect what they love.”
Looking Ahead
As Tres Palmas continues to face challenges, its legacy as a pioneering marine reserve remains intact. The lessons learned from this community-driven initiative are already inspiring other parts of Puerto Rico to establish their own protected areas. For Surfrider and the people of Rincón, preserving Tres Palmas is not just about saving a wave—it’s about preserving the very heart of their community and the ecosystems that sustain it.
Through ongoing efforts and grassroots activism, Tres Palmas stands as a testament to what can be achieved when surfers, local residents, and conservation organizations unite to protect their ocean, waves, and way of life.