Often called "Pueblo del Surfing" (Surfing Town) and "Little Malibu," Rincón is known to Puerto Ricans as a "Gringo Paradise." The dominant language in the area is English, with many foreign surfers and other expats making this town their home. It became a surfing mecca after the World Surfing Championships in 1968, when images of Rincón and the frequent 15-foot-high waves were transmitted worldwide. Although waves do get quite big here, there are beautiful beaches that are suitable for swimming, mostly to the south of town.
Rincón is also one of Puerto Rico's main areas for whale watching excursions. The prime whale watching season is mid-January through to March, when humpback whales are in the area. Tours are easily arranged in town.