cayo icacos tour

Icacos Snorkeling and Beach Tour

Tour Details

Prices per person, about this tour.

6 hours (9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.)

Important Information

Family-friendly tour. All ages can participate! Infants 3 years and younger are free but need to be included as passengers.

For private tour we can accommodate up to 80 passengers (coast guard certified), but for non-private we only accommodate 70.

What's Included

Embark on a tropical paradise escape to Icacos Island and enjoy great views, crystal clear waters and underwater wonders.

This tour includes:

• Lunch (deli-style buffet with cold cuts, cheeses, fresh bread, pasta salad, bean salad, and chicken salad)
• Snacks (chips and fresh fruit)
• Beverages (rum drinks like Piña Colada and Rum Punch, Medalla beer, assorted sodas, juices, and water)
• Waterslide, snorkeling equipment, and floating devices.
• Underwater windows and nets upfront to sunbathe

First time snorkeling? We can give you a short lesson before your first dive!

Transportation

Roundtrip transportation is offered at an additional fee per person from any major hotels in the Old San Juan, Condado or Isla Verde area.

If you’re staying in Puerto Rico’s northeast coast, Rio Grande, Rio Mar, Luquillo, Fajardo, and Palmas del Mar in Humacao, call us for transportation minimum and pricing at +1 (787) 860-3434.

Cancellation Policy

For individual reservations of 1-9 passengers, there can be cancellations until 10:00 am the day before the scheduled trip with no penalty. Reservations for 10 or more passengers require cancellation at least two (2) days in advance.

“NO SHOW” if you don’t arrive on time, the ticket is NOT REFUNDABLE and NOT REUSABLE unless (and only if) we have space available to reschedule on a future date. Reschedule must be made on the day of the original trip, base on availability and a rescheduling fee of $25 + tax per person will be applied.

*All marine activities are subject to water conditions. Please call the day before your trip for an update. Cancellations or change of destination due to water conditions is at the Captain’s discretion. These decisions will be informed at check-in.

Recommendations | What to bring

• Bathing suit ON and light beach clothing
• Comfortable shoes
• Sunblock, sunglasses, and hat
• Phone with waterproof case
• Any personal items you may need

If you get seasick, take an over-the-counter remedy with food at least one hour before departure.

Departure Site Information

Check-in: Please be on site 45-30 minutes prior to your departure time for check-in process.

Safe parking available for all of our guests.

Interested in a private charter?

See what our guests are saying about this tour, the boat ride was scenic, the island was breathtaking.

We had an incredible experience on East island Excursion to Cayo Ikakos ! The boat ride was scenic, the island was breathtaking, and the food was absolutely amazing. Our entire family, including the kids, loved every moment of it. The hospitality was exceptional, and we can’t wait to come back for another memorable trip . Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a perfect getaway!

Keep up the good work.

Recently booked a snorkeling tour to Icacos and it was amazing. The prices were fair and they were able to provide transportation from Viejo San Juan for an additional cost. The crew was amazing and took care of us. They were very attentive and they kept the drinks coming. The water conditions weren’t the best for snorkeling but they did their best to find us s spot. Accessing the beach required to swim from the boat. It wasn’t ideal but made it fun. I intend to book again on my next trip to PR. Next time it’ll be Culebra. Keep up the good work. I would love to hear more reguetón and more Latin music next time.

• Most Popular!

Snorkel & Slide!

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 5 hours
• Calendar When: Morning Session: Check-in: 7:30 am Afternoon Session: Check-in: 1:30 pm
• Map Marker Where: Marina Puerto Chico, Fajardo. We snorkel at Tortuga Reef and visit Icacos Island Beach.
• Info Included: All snorkeling gear, lunch, local rum, and non-alcoholic beverages

Breathtaking Snorkeling Tours to Icacos Island, Puerto Rico

Join Snorkeling Puerto Rico for a daily snorkeling tour to Icacos Island. Our boat includes fantastic food, cocktails, and top-notch service from our knowledgeable crew. Icacos Boat Tour is a local favorite and is offered daily.

Snorkeling Puerto Rico is a wonderful choice for your next birthday celebration, family gathering, holiday party, or corporate retreat. We’re happy to accommodate large groups, but you can come alone, or bring anyone you want to share this Icacos snorkel and beach tour with!

Relax on an Icacos Island Snorkel & Boat Tour

This Icacos Island Snorkel Cruise is a worry-free experience to one of Puerto Rico’s best snorkeling tours. Snorkeling Puerto Rico has designed this experience for you to show up, relax and enjoy Icacos Island. 

Icacos Island sits three miles from the northeastern tip of the main island of Puerto Rico, and it’s part of a chain of islands that runs for 18 miles creating a natural barrier between Fajardo and Culebra island. These coral islands are protected as a nature reserve and only accessible by boat, and there is no port or facilities on the island.

Icacos Island Snorkeling Tour Itinerary

Our Icacos snorkeling and boat tours set sail from Marina Puerto Chico. As we navigate to Las Cabezas de San Juan Coast, our knowledgeable guides will share information on culture, wildlife and all the best views.

After 20-minutes, we’ll enter Icacos Island Nature Reserve, where you’ll spot the chain of islands that make this nature reserve special. Bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful schools of fish and sea life swimming through the vibrant and ancient limestone formations. Snorkeling for an hour and thirty minutes in Icacos Island gives you another perspective, with schools of sea life swimming through gorgeous coral reef formations. 

Enjoy the view over lunch as we leave the snorkeling site and navigate towards the world-famous Icacos Island Beach, where we’ll make a two-hour stop to relax. Then it will be time to head back to the Marina. While your Icacos Island snorkeling & boat tour has come to an end, your memories will last a lifetime.

Icacos Island Snorkeling

Your friendly crew selects the best snorkeling sites in Fajardo and provides site briefings, historical facts, snorkel tips, and safety instructions to guests of all ages and experience levels. Masks, fins, snorkels, and floatation noodles are provided at Snorkeling Puerto Rico.

Our professional crew will guide you in the water and can also provide you with fish identification cards. Lunch will be ready after you’ve snorkeled up an appetite. Snorkel time is approximately one hour and thirty minutes.

Icacos Cruise Menu

Our tropical-style lunch includes fresh island fruits, cold pasta, chicken salad, bean salad, local bread, lettuce, tomatoes and local pastries for dessert (menu items may vary)

Complimentary beverages include a variety of soft drinks.

We have a bar on board stocked with Rum, Complimentary Coco Libre (our signature drink), and Piña Coladas. 

Beers and other mixed drinks are available for purchase.

Things to Bring

Dress comfortably for your Icacos Island Snorkeling Cruise. Bring swimwear, a cover-up, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a camera. Note that we have limited space to stow gear and keep it dry. Snorkeling Puerto Rico operates “shoe-less boats,” so wear sandals or slippers that are easy to remove. Gratuity is not included in the tour price, but tips are greatly appreciated. Upload your favorite photos to us on Instagram or Facebook and hashtag #IcacosIslandSnorkelTour

Boat Tour Schedule

AM Icacos Snorkel & Boat Tour

Check-in: 7:30 am

Location (Departure & Return): Marina Puerto Chico, Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Trip Time: 8:00 am to 1:00 pm

PM Icacos Snorkel & Boat Tour

Check-in: 1:30 pm

Trip Time: 2:00 pm to 6:30 pm

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Puerto Rico Things to Do   ⎮ Puerto Rico Islands ⎮ Cayo Icacos / Icacos Cay, Fajardo, PR

5 Star Boat Tour to Icacos Cay

Cayo Icacos (Icacos Cay) is one of the islands of Puerto Rico , and one of the most special places to visit.  Icacos Cay is the largest of La Cordillera Nature Reserve, a group of beautiful keys off the east coast of Puerto Rico, a short boat ride from the town of Fajardo , about a 45-minute drive from the capital city of San Juan .

While there are many beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico , taking a catamaran excursion to this offshore treasure is certainly special.

Content on Icacos Cay Travel Guide

Experience icacos cay, the experience at cayo icacos.

• Catamaran Tours to Icacos
• From San Juan
• Boat Tours (Shared)  to Icacos
• Mini Boats Tours
• Private Charter Boats
• Private Sailing Charters
• Private Yacht Luxury Charters

More about Icacos Cay

• Getting to Icacos Cay “Icacos Island”
• Map of Icacos Cay & Marinas in Fajardo
• Photo & Video Gallery of Icacos

Once you step onto the boat, you’ll be swept away from the modern world and transported to an archipelago of undeveloped islands. There, the sandy shores are home to birds. The waters are playgrounds for sea turtles, schools of tropical fish, and dolphins that often visit.  You’ll be one of the lucky visitors to enjoy crystal clear water and pass the time swimming and snorkeling to see the world underneath the sea and bask under the sun as you relax or play on soft clean white sand.  

The best beach is on the island’s west side, and the best snorkeling spot is on the rocky part of the beach, where fish love to hide and play. 

The only sights from Icacos Island are the surrounding water, nearby islands, and the main island.

The landscape on the island is just like nature intended without human interference, with a few scattered palm trees and endemic plants growing freely.  The sand is soft, and white, decorated lightly with tiny shells, gently kissed by the mesmerizing blues of the Caribbean Sea.

Excursions / Tours to Icacos Cay

• Locations: Most charters to Icacos leave from Marina Puerto Chico, Villa Marina, or Puerto Del Rey Marina – all located in Fajardo.  See the map at the end of the page.
• Time: Tours can last from 3.5 hours up to 8.5 hours.
• Cost for charter: Varies depending on the type and length of the excursion.  Some tours include transportation from hotels in San Juan and nearby tourist destinations.
• See below for all tours to Icacos by categories to help you find the perfect tour / private charter for your group.

Catamaran Excursions to Icacos

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In this guide, you’ll find that we encourage visitors to rent a car, to explore the coast and a few major attractions around the island on your own, it is the most economical and fun way to do it if you have the time, and wish to explore at your own pace.

Icacos Cay is one of the few attractions we highly recommend visitors to book an excursion/charter for the most enjoyable experience.  From speaking to so many visitors, the experience is elevated by the music, food, drinks, and friendly hospitality of tour operators.

Below you’ll see information on getting a water taxi, but we think the additional services add to the experience, you’re on vacation, so treat yourself to something special.   If the budget does not allow you or you simply wish to spend your vacation dollars on another tour, that’s ok too, scroll below for information on a more DIY trip to Icacos.

Tips for getting the most out of your visit to Icacos Cay

• If the tour operator does not offer transportation from your hotel to the departure port, we recommend renting a car.  Depending on the size of your group, it may be more economical, and you’ll also have the freedom to visit more places of interest on the East Coast for a day full of adventure.  The trip from San Juan takes about 45 minutes.  Apple Maps and Google Maps work well to get you there.
• Other places you may enjoy while you’re in Fajardo:  Las Cabezas de San Juan , Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Bay .
• Icacos is an uninhabited island, a nature reserve, you must bring everything you’ll need if you choose to take a water taxi.  Charter boats typically include drinks, snorkel gear, and snacks.

Planning a visit to Icacos Cay on your own

• Book a car rental
• Se your GPS to Las Croabas, Fajardo
• There’s free parking at the waterfront of Las Croabas
• We recommend you get there in the morning. You’ll see small boats at the dock, feel free to ask if they offer trips to Icacos.
• The cost per person is from $50 – $75 is about $25 per person.  Bring cash to pay.  Some may accept ATH Movil from residents in Puerto Rico.
• There are no food vendors or facilities of any kind at Icacos.  You’ll find places to eat at Las Croabas near the dock.  Be sure to take snacks and plenty of water for your visit to Icacos.
• Be sure to use the restroom at the little park in Las Croabas or a restaurant when you eat.
• Water taxi ride to Icacos last about 20 minutes.
• Water taxis depending on how busy the day is with visitors, they will go back and forth to the island.  Some captains offer the last pick-up before sunset.  Feel free to speak to the captain and communicate your preferences, they may be more flexible for your group.  Most will give you about 4-5 hours on the island or less if you wish.
• We no longer provide contacts and phone numbers because they often change and they don’t notify us.
• We provide you this information as a general guide, we can’t guarantee you that there will be a water taxi available.  There will be more water taxis available during the high season but less availability.  In low season you may have more luck getting a space.

A few answers to questions asked by readers

• Is there a ferry from Fajardo to Icacos? – No, there is no ferry service.  The Fajardo Port was moved to Ceiba and the ferries offer transport to Vieques and Culebra only.
• Do tour operators offer transportation from resorts?   – Most tour operators offer transportation or will arrange it for an additional fee.
• Where do most catamaran and charter boats depart from to Icacos? –  At the end of this page, you’ll find a map with the locations of marinas from which most tour operators depart.  When you book a tour, the operator will give you information and details about the meeting place.

Map - Cayo Icacos (Icacos Cay)

Photo & video gallery - icacos cay.

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Popular tours in puerto rico.

Day Trip Guide to Cayo Icacos Island

Bright blue waters surround the natural wonder of Cayo Icacos Island in Puerto Rico. The Icacos beach is filled with wildlife and clear views as no buildings are allowed on the island. A day trip to Icacos Island off the coast of Fajardo, Puerto Rico is truly a remote paradise. Whether you’re looking for a weekend party destination or a weekday chill beach, Icacos is a beautiful Puerto Rico hidden gem. We have the inside scoop on the best ways to reach the island, what to bring, and how to enjoy your time on this natural reserve.

Getting to Icacos Island

In lieu of a ferry service, you can reach the island in about 20 minutes with a water taxi from the Las Croabas docks in Fajardo. The water taxis depart from these docks every 30 minutes and make it easy to take a day trip. Make sure not to go to Port of Fajardo or Ceiba Ferry Port as neither provides transportation to the island at this time. You have options for booking your Icacos water taxi depending on your group size and travel times. Booking online, calling to book, or simply showing up to the Las Croabas docks with cash ($50-$70/ per person recommended) are all great options.

You can also book a private charter or tour to the island for more amenities options. Keep in mind there are no facilities on the island, so if you’re wanting easy access to a bathroom and storage for your things, a private charter is your best option. Check out our Puerto Rico boat tour options to explore all the ways to reach Icacos Island.

What to Bring to Icacos Island

The beauty of Cayo Icacos Island is that you get a completely unobstructed view of the mainland with no construction to disturb the native wildlife. This comes at the cost of amenities like restrooms, food services, and shade offered to you. Much like a remote camping trip, you’ll want to make sure to pack all the essentials you need for your beach day. Although, it’s worth noting that overnight camping is not allowed on the island — so make sure to book your return trip on the same day. Here is a list to get you started, but please modify depending on the size of your party and your plans for your Icacos beach day:

• Plenty of drinking water
• Food and disposal bags
• Sunscreen and sun protection
• A source of shade (umbrella, shelter, hat, etc.)
• Swim and snorkeling gear
• Hiking shoes
• Cell phone (yes, there’s service)

Activities on Icacos Island

The best way to enjoy Icacos Island in Puerto Rico is to bring all you need to relax and enjoy the beautiful Icacos beaches. But if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can strap on your hiking shoes and explore the deserted island by foot. There are tours that will take you to the best snorkeling and hiking spots on the island — including to the sites of hidden ruins. As a natural reserve, you’ll get to witness nature in its undisturbed form. Keep in mind the beach gets crowded with party-goers on weekends. The beauty of Icacos Island is really what you make it!

Still looking for more ways to enjoy Puerto Rico? Check out some of our favorite activities and tours that depart from Fajardo below.

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• Calendar Closed Sun
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Bioluminescent Night Kayaking

Eco action tours.

Explore one of nature’s most impressive phenomenons! Kayak the mangrove channels to Laguna Grande. Bioluminescent water is like a mosaic of light resembling fireflies.

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Mini Boat Snorkel Adventure

Kayaking puerto rico.

Join us in this one of a kind aquatic adventure! That’s because no one else in Puerto Rico offers “Skipper-yourself” Mini Boat, Snorkeling Day Trips!

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Old San Juan Day Sail Tour

East island excursions.

This excursion is the perfect scenario to capture the best images of the city to take as a souvenir to all your loved ones. Our tour will be the highlight of your vacation.

Jaw-dropping Icacos Island, Puerto Rico: What to Know Before You Go

Posted on Published: October 7, 2023  - Last updated: March 5, 2024

This pristine island surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean is the perfect day trip in Puerto Rico! Escape the busy city of Old San Juan and head to Icacos Island! This is the ultimate guide to everything you need to know before you go.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Icacos Island, also referred to as Cayo Icacos, is nestled in the crystal-clear waters off Puerto Rico’s northeastern coast. It’s an absolute must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable tropical escape from mainland Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico is a phenomenal destination. Whether you’re spending a few days exploring all the best things to do in Old San Juan , El Yunque National Forest or another island like Vieques or Culebra , Puerto Rico is a destination unlike any other!

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is the best catamaran tour of Icacos Island , which is a full day trip including lunch and snorkeling. Also get the complete  Puerto Rico Travel Guide  for everything you need to see and do in Puerto Rico!

If you’re wondering if Icacos Island is worth your time, you’re in the right spot! This guide will go over all the details essential to planning your trip to the island.

Map of Icacos Puerto Rico 

If you’re wondering just where is Icacos Island Puerto Rico, here’s a map that will help you familiarize yourself with the area. The orange icon is Icacos Island and the yellow icons are other major landmarks on mainland Puerto Rico and nearby islands.

How to get to Icacos Island Puerto Rico

You basically have two options on getting to Icacos Puerto Rico.

• Private boat
• Island tour

Because most of us don’t own boats, I’m going to focus on the second option.

There are no accommodations or overnights on the island. It’s uninhabited with basically no services. With that said, your tour company will provide the amenities for the day.

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Icacos Island tours

Not all day tours to Icacos Island Puerto Rico are created equal. You’ll want a reputable tour operator that creates an immersive experience and has the amenities and timeframe you’re looking for.

• Icacos Island Catamaran Cruise. This full-day cruise is honestly a perfect way to spend a day visiting Cayo Icacos! Expect lunch and tropical drinks, too.
• Icacos Island Boat Trip. This 1/2 day cruise just offers light refreshments instead of a full lunch. I love that this tour also offers umbrellas to lounge at the beach.

Tours to Cayo Icacos leave from Fajardo, so you’ll have to consider transportation to the marina, depending on where you’re staying.

I personally enjoyed the Catamaran cruise from Fajardo . This tour struck the perfect balance between adventure and comfort, while providing enough time to relax and adventure on the island as a full day tour.

These tour itineraries are thoughtfully crafted, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration of this uninhabited island. From basking in the sun on the pristine beach to snorkeling adventures, you’re sure to have a good time!

What to expect at Icacos Puerto Rico

Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, as Mother Nature really nailed it with this island! Create moments that linger in your memory long after your trip concludes.

The way to the island is about a 30 – 45 minute boat ride. You’ll see the beautiful coast of the mainland and Tortuga Reef as you go from Fajardo to Icacos Island.

As you pull up to the from the scenic catamaran ride to the island, the water goes from vivid blue to bright teal – a breathtaking sight to see in the Caribbean!

Your tour should ensure that you have ample time to soak in the sun, explore the underwater wonders and even enjoy water activities.

Amenities on the island

Well, there really aren’t any! Instead of restrooms and restaurants, you’ll see coastal forests, sand dunes and beaches! You’ll need to rely on your catamaran for a restroom and food.

Oh, and make sure you bring the proper beach gear with you – list is below!

Lunch during your tour

Your lunch or food options will vary based on the tour you select . From seafood wraps and tropical fruits to deli meats and alcoholic beverages, there’s a variety of items served on the tour boats and catamarans.

Pro tip: being out in the sun is dehydrating. Remember to drink water and reapply the mineral sunscreen !

Oh, and if you’re prone to motion sickness, be sure to get a full belly so it doesn’t get worse.

Can I swim at Cayo Icacos?

Of course! Icacos Island boasts unspoiled, powdery white-sand beaches and is surrounded by vibrant turquoise waters. So swim until your heart is content! Just be sure to watch for other boats and large waves.

And while most destinations I recommend water shoes , Icacos Puerto Rico isn’t one of them! Similar to Flamenco Beach in Culebra , the luxurious soft sand under toe is amazing!

You’ll want plenty of reef-safe sunblock , a beach hat and rash guard to protect yourself from the sun, though. More recommended items to pack, below.

Note: during the summer months you’ll see some sargassum (seaweed) in the area. This is common across the Caribbean!

Snorkeling at Icacos Island

The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a novice, the opportunity to explore the underwater wonders of Icacos amongst the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico.

Your catamaran will have to transport you from the swimming area to the snorkeling area, which is just a few minutes’ drive away. Full day tours will allow you to spend 30 – 90 minutes of snorkeling , complete with all the necessary gear.

The crystal-clear waters provide visibility that allows you to witness the kaleidoscope of colors beneath the surface at Cayo Icacos.

For those new to snorkeling, fear not; the tour provides equipment and guidance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

My group saw many fish and colorful reef. Remember the reef-safe mineral sunblock to continue to protect our oceans, reef and marine life!

Marine life while snorkeling at Cayo Icacos

• Hawksbill Sea Turtle
• Green Sea Turtle
• Mutton Snapper
• French Angelfish
• French Grunt
• Queen Angelfish
• Sergeant Major

After snorkeling, swimming and lounging around Icacos Island Puerto Rico, you’ll likely head back into the marina.

Tips for visiting one of the best islands in Puerto Rico

The journey to the island, soaking in the beautiful scenery on the island and snorkeling through the reef provides such a sense of adventure! Here are a few more tips to help ensure your day goes smoothly.

• Icacos Island is busy. It’s not exactly a hidden gem anymore, with a dozen or more boats coming daily. Although you’ll want to step onto an unspoiled island, surrounded by the beauty of nature, consider the other 100 people that will want to do the same.
• Take advantage of water activities! Whether your tour offers a slide, floatables or sun umbrellas and loungers, you paid for it so be sure to enjoy it!
• Use a dry bag during your day. Catamarans are wet places so to ensure your towel, phone and money doesn’t get wet, keep them in a dry bag.
• Motion sickness medication is your friend.  If you get queasy while boating or snorkeling, then grab your  motion sickness remedy  or whatever you need to help you feel your best while on this trip!
• Leave no trace.  It’s often used in hiking and outdoorsy travel, but it’s so important to leave this island with zero evidence that you were there.  Don’t bring back sand or rocks, don’t disturb vegetation or marine life and definitely no littering.
• Don’t touch or stand on coral.  One single fingerprint can kill coral from the oils on your fingers. This fragile ecosystem has a lot to contend with already. Don’t touch or step on coral here, or anywhere in the world’s oceans.

What to pack for the day

As promised, here are the beach essentials you’ll need for your time in Cayo Icacos…

• Ocean-safe mineral sunblock.  Chemicals in traditional sunblocks kill our reefs and are harmful to marine life. Use  mineral sunscreen  when at Icacos Puerto Rico (or any other beach for that matter!)
• Sun hat  or  rash guard .  Minimize how much sunscreen you use and the time it takes to apply it, cover your skin with a sun hat and/or rash guard. They even make  rash guards with swimming suits that are super cute.
• Underwater camera.  Capture photos of you and/or your loved ones in the water, not to mention all the amazing fish and reef!  This is the GoPro I used at the island, and so many other places, like discovering the best things to do in Kihei Maui. Don’t forget the  float strap accessory !
• Dry bag.   If you want to take your phone, a  power bank  or even extra  GoPro batteries , use a dry bag! I have  this dry bag  in orange and it’s the perfect size to carry by itself or to place inside a beach bag.
• Beach to wel. Most tours don’t offer beach towels because they’re towing the other essentials like food, drinks and snorkel gear. I love this quick drying beach towel with a hidden pocket for your cell phone, cash or keys.
• Hair care. Protect your hair from the salt water and windy boat. Bring leave-in conditioner , comb or other essentials with you.
• Cash for tip. While you’ll pay for the food and tour in advance, don’t forget to tip your tour guides! A 10% tip is customary for this type of thing in Puerto Rico.
• Travel insurance. Literally anything can happen while you’re on vacation! Take travel insurance with you on your trip to Puerto Rico and Icacos Island.

Things to do near Icacos Island Puerto Rico

There’s so many things to do in this area of Puerto Rico. You’ll definitely want to squeeze a few days into your itinerary for this region!

• El Yunque National Forest. This is the only National Rainforest in the USA, and it’s truly a beautiful one at that. From waterfall hikes to amazing lookout towers with 360-degree views, this is best done as a day trip .
• Flamenco Beach, Culebra. Commonly done as a day trip but better if you can spend a few nights to fully explore the island. Flamenco Beach is world-famous and commonly voted as one of the best in the world. It’s truly impeccable!
• Vieques, Puerto Rico. From the bioluminescent bay to the Black Sand Beach Vieques , there’s a ton to see and do on this island, too. You’ll want at least one night and 2 days here.
• Old San Juan. Less than an hour’s drive from Fajardo is Old San Juan. Marvel at the 500+ year old cobblestone streets, tour El Morro, the old fort that protected the city from the 1500’s, and enjoy a Pina Colada at it’s birthplace, there are so many things to do in Old San Juan !

Where to stay near Cayo Icacos

There’s a plethora of options to stay in or near Fajardo and your launching point to Icacos Island. Here are a few recommendations:

• El Conquistador Resort. Gorgeous and with an amazing pool, located right near the marina. It’s a stunning property in Fajardo!
• Condado Ocean Club. Closer to Old San Juan, this adults-only hotel in Condado is just what to you need to relax before and after your day tour to the island!
• Palacio Provincial. In the heart of Old San Juan, stay in the middle of the action and take a day trip to Icacos Island from here.

Icacos Island

Well, that’s a wrap!  Everything you need to know about visiting Icacos Island, Puerto Rico!

With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and thoughtfully designed tours, Icacos Island Puerto Rico promises an experience that will leave you breathless! It’s a fun adventure, and a perfect way to spend the day in Puerto Rico!

Enjoy this incredible island!

Related content to read next: 28 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Old San Juan You’ll Love Gorgeous Culebra Puerto Rico: 25 Things to Do + Best Beaches & How to Get There Stunning Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go Culebra vs Vieques: Which Island is Perfect for You? Stunning Black Sand Beach Vieques, Puerto Rico: What to Know Before You Go

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Saturday 7th of October 2023

I’d never heard of this island before! Your guide was so detailed and informative 🏝️👙☀️⛱️

Jenn if you're ever in Puerto Rico, you simply gotta go!!

Wow, Icacos Island looks beautiful! I will visit Puerto Rico in a couple of weeks and will definitely check to see if I can visit this in.

Oh yay Kitty! So happy to hear you're headed to Puerto Rico. Enjoy! Hope you get to visit Icacos Island, too 🩵

Complete Guide to Cayo Icacos Island, Puerto Rico

• Post published: August 10, 2022
• Post category: Destinations / Puerto Rico
• Reading time: 14 mins read

What started as a frantic attempt to find a place to take my family for a day trip for the scarce few days they were visiting me in Puerto Rico turned out to be quite an adventure. I had wrongly presumed that the ferry to Culebra and Vieques from the mainland of Puerto Rico was a continuously running cheap ferry. I was wrong. The tickets to the ferry were sold out 2 months in advance. And so the night before when I had promised everyone I was taking them to “the coolest island off the coast of Puerto Rico” I pretty much had no place in mind.

So while they sat watching TV after a gorgeous day trip to El Yunque, I sat frantically scrolling through the internet for ideas for the next day. “C’mon there have to be other stupid people like me” I thought. Which is how I stumbled upon the fact that there existed another beautiful smaller island – Cayo Icacos which was equally if not even more fun than the crowded islands of Culebra and Vieques. This blog post contains all the information you need for a successful day trip to Cayo Icacos.

What is Cayo Icacos Island?

Largest cay in the la cordillera nature reserve.

Cayo Icacos is named as such because it is the largest of the cays (islands) that belong to the La Cordillera Nature Reserve off the north east coast of Puerto Rico. The island is protected from the more thunderous waves of the Caribbean sea and the turquoise blue surf gently laps at the beach.

Island geography and sea life

The island has a thriving body of sea grape bushes and palm trees enclosing the middle of the island while the outer ring consists of the softest sand and clear blue water perfect for abundant sea life to thrive in. 

The sealife around the island includes hermit crabs, parrotfish, bananafish, sardines, sargento, doctorfish, lined sole, sea urchins and these are just those that I remember seeing. There are hundreds of species of fish that inhabit the gorgeous reef around the island. 

How to get to Cayo Icacos Island

Do not go to fajardo docks, go to las croabas docks.

A lot of sites advertise Fajardo docks as being the place to get a water taxi. This is wrong! Fajardo docks are where private charters and catamaran tours start from. You only need to drive to the Fajardo docks if you have booked a private charter or a tour. If you are doing a trip by yourself you need to go to the Las Croabas docks. Do not go to Fajardo docks because there are no boats that take you to Cayo Icacos from there.

Las Croabas is a quaint little town on the north-east tip of the island – approximately a 10 minute drive from the town of Fajardo. It is 63.7km from San Juan and since most of the drive is on the highway you can cover the entire distance in an hour. 

How to get to Las Croabas

To make the drive you will need to either get a taxi which is insanely expensive or rent a car which is a much cheaper option. The island currently charges insane prices for importing cars which is why the car rentals here are much more expensive than you would expect for Puerto Rico so make sure to include that in your budget. A small sedan would cost you about $80-$100 per day after insurance, taxes and if you are under 25 you pay an extra charge. 

How to rent a car?

If you are flying into Luis Munoz Marin International Airport then you can rent a car at the airport. You will exit the airport at the lower level of the airport. On this road, there are a few car rental companies right next to each other where you can rent cars. Other than this, there are multiple car rentals in the city as well. 

For a full guide to how to get a good car rental check out this blog on Rent a Car in Puerto Rico – A Local’s Guide .

Take a water taxi to the island

Once you have entered the town, search for Mandibula Water Taxi in Google Maps. Their parking is free and you can drive straight in. Then call the number on the outside of the gate which keeps changing very often (which is why I haven’t provided it here). The owners live nearby and will take 5-15 minutes to show up to take you on the ferry. The water taxi is $30 each way per person – which means $60 for the round trip. 

Do I need to reserve a water taxi in advance?

If you are traveling in a small group, it isn’t necessary to reserve a boat in advance. If you are a bigger group and it’s high season then it’s better to call ahead and make sure they have space just to be safe. We were a group of 4 and we went in May and had no problem getting a boat on the spot. 

How often do water taxis come for pickup and dropoff?

The boats come for pickups and dropoffs every 30 minutes at both the Las Croabas docks and the island.

How long is the ferry ride to Cayo Icacos Island?

Once you are on the ferry, it takes about 15 minutes to get to Cayo Icacos Island. You will get dropped off in the middle of the crowd but there are lots of very secluded places so don’t worry if you see 15 or so party boats right off the bat. The water taxi guy will let you know what time to meet him back at the same spot. 

What time does the last water taxi go back from the island?

The last boat usually leaves from the island at 5:30pm before sunset.

What to take to Cayo Icacos Island

Cayo Icacos island is an uninhabited island which means you can’t stay there overnight. It also means there are no food vendors, bathrooms or any facilities at all. If you need to pee, you pee in the ocean. For this reason, before you leave your home for the day trip to Cayo Icacos island make sure you have all the items you need. I have listed below all the things I took on my trip.

List of 8 things to take with you

• Drinks – Lots of water, cold drinks, juice.
• Food – Sandwiches, cake, fruits.
• Towels – Take a couple of beach towels and some to dry you off after the dip in the ocean
• Hats – It is very very hot on the island especially in the summer and the sun beats down on you relentlessly so a good hat is very important.
• Snorkeling equipment – You should have with you your flippers, googles and tube.
• Sunscreen – Please only wear sunscreen that is safe for the ocean and the environment because it has become a huge issue with people wearing sunscreen that harms the reef. I recommend finding shade instead of wearing sunscreen.
• Water shoes – I always carry my water shoes with me everywhere because you can walk with them, get in a ferry, jump straight into the ocean and even snorkel.
• GoPro, camera, drone – The beach is very picturesque and looks even more gorgeous with an aerial view. The multiple colorful umbrellas that people set up on the beach with a backdrop of all the yachts make a really pretty shot. 
• Beach umbrella – I don’t usually take a beach umbrella because I rarely burn but here I was in the water 90% of the time cause it was actually so hot I would have burnt if I stayed in the sun. But don’t worry if you don’t have one, the vendors on the island have some that they rent to visitors by the hour so you’ll be good.

What to do on Cayo Icacos Island

Cayo Icacos Island is best suited for lots of snorkeling and lounging in the sun. Once you disembark on the island you will see lots of vendors renting out snorkel equipment, sun umbrellas and kayaks.

Snorkeling at Cayo Icacos

I recommend taking your own surf gear but if you don’t have that you can rent them from the vendors on the island. Then walk along the coast to the west of the island past the party boats. This is a short 10 minute walk. The fish tend to get disturb by the vibrations caused in the water due to engine run and music so you’ll see a much larger variety of sea life a little ways from the boat. Once you get here, waddle across the extremely slippery reef (be careful of sea urchins!) before putting your flippers on. You can then snorkel around the reef and see a variety of sea life. 

Some of the sea life I spotted on my trip to the island includes hermit crabs, parrotfish, bananafish, sardines, sargento, doctorfish, lined sole, and sea urchins. These are just a few of the hundreds of species of fish that can be found in these waters. 

Kayaking at Cayo Icacos

Kayaking is another fun activity to do here. You can rent kayaks from the vendors on the beach and go out into the sea. I didn’t end up doing this because I much prefer to be in the water but it looked cool. 

Hiking on Cayo Icacos

You can also hike a little ways into the interior of the island. When you get dropped off at the front of the island, look straight ahead and you will see a board that shows the map of the interior of the island. Right next to the board is a clearing in the trees that goes through the bushes and trees deeper into the island. This is a fun little thing to do if you want to explore more.

Cayo Icacos Catamaran Trips

If you prefer to leave the details of the trip to someone else and have a bigger budget you might consider taking a private charter or doing a tour.

You will see a lot of charter boats when you go to the island. These are boats that allow you to blast music, pop bottles and provide all the booze and food you need.

Checkout other Puerto Rico posts

Top 8 Unique Bars in San Juan, Puerto Rico

25 Awesome Things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Things to do in Old San Juan: 12 Stop Walking Guide with Map

Complete Guide to El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico

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• Most Popular

ICACOS ISLAND SNORKELING & BEACH BOAT TOUR

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 4.5 Hours
• Ticket Tour Type: Water Sports

User Ages: We welcome all ages from 3+

Users Occupancy: Up to 40 passengers

Clock Available times:

Morning tour: 8:00 am -12:30 pm (Check-in 7:30 am)

Afternoon tour: 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm (Check-in 1:00 pm)

Tag Tour Inclusions:  Snorkeling gear, floating belts, floating mattresses, stand-up paddle board, beach toys, music, lunch, and beverages.

Destination: Tortuga reef for great snorkeling and Icacos beach for fun and relaxation.

Departure and Return Point: Puerto del Rey Marina Slip 8102, Fajardo, 00738, Puerto Rico

Tag Location Amenities: Free parking, bathroom, deli market and convenience store at the harbor.

Info Warning: This tour is not suitable for children under the age of 3 years old, pregnant women, people with back injuries, people with severe motion sickness, serious health conditions, neck problems, recent surgeries or people with mobility needs since this activity takes place in a boat that is not ADA-compliant.

 What To Expect on Icacos Island Snorkeling Tour

On our all inclusive beach and snorkel AM Icacos island boat tour, you will be able to explore the beautiful and diverse marine life, clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches on the best possible spot on the island.

Our vessel “Tortuga” departs Safe Harbor Puerto Del Rey in Fajardo at 8:00 a.m. sharp (check in is at 7:30 a.m.) we will head straight to Icacos Island for snorkeling and more! From Safe Harbor Puerto del Rey in Fajardo, we’ll take you on a 20-25 minute boat ride through the east coast of Fajardo and will arrive at your destination around 20 minutes later depending on sea conditions.

Our usual first stop is at a reef near Icacos island for snorkeling, where we will remain for about an hour to an hour and a half. Once the snorkeling part of the Icacos Island boat tour has concluded, our captain will take you and your group to the second and final stop for some well-deserved beach fun at Icacos island.

Be prepared to have the best time while onboard or in the water enjoying our delicious tropical drinks, great music, and the best customer service around. Join us for snorkeling in Fajardo, Puerto Rico and more!

What’s Included on the Icacos Island Tour:

• Turkey and cheese sandwich with coleslaw
• Ham and cheese sandwich with coleslaw
• Veggie sandwich
• Fresh Pasta salad
• Fresh Bean salad
• Assorted chips and cookies
• Whole fruit

• Pina Colada
• Guava Colada

Alcoholic beverages will be served only after snorkeling

• Snorkeling gear including mask, snorkel and fins
• Floating belts
• Floating mattress

• Chevron down What to bring
• Great attitude
• Change of clothes or cover-ups
• Sunscreen lotion preferably reef safe type (Spray or aerosol type not allowed)
• Chevron down Transportation

We offer roundtrip ground transportation at a cost of $40 per passenger from most locations in the San Juan, Condado and Isla verde area. This option must be arranged no later than 24 hours before the scheduled trip. There is a minimum of 8 passengers required for this service. Please call in advance to confirm transportation 787-439-1672 .

• Chevron down Additional Information
• We welcome all family members except children under 3, pregnant women or those with back injuries or recent surgeries in order to prevent any unfortunate events.
• At Caribe Bliss we are very thankful for our amazingly beautiful marine environment and we are committed to protecting it. Marine conservation and preservation is paramount along with the safety and enjoyment of our guests. For these reasons we would like to remind our guest that most of the beautiful spots we visit are protected as well as all the marine life you will see and enjoy. We encourage our guest to enjoy this blissful experience and use all available means to create and enjoy memorable moments. It is very important to avoid at all cost touching or taking any sea life that could potentially put in danger the marine ecosystem around the island.
• We would like remind our guest that these environmentally sensitive areas while protected are still exposed to many threats. In an effort to conserve and protect them we encourage you to use long sleeve performance shirts or “rash guards” as well as ball caps or hats for sun protection rather than sunscreen lotion.
• At Caribe Bliss we strive to provide a blissful experience by taking you to the best spots however destinations are at the captain’s discretion and these may change depending on weather conditions. Please remember that your safety will always be our number one priority.
• We would also like to remind our guest that this snorkeling beach trip will take you on a trip through open waters. If you’ve never been on a boat before or are prone to motion sickness we encourage you to take over the counter motion sickness remedies with food at least one hour prior to the trip.
• Chevron down Cancellation Policy

In an effort to be fair with our clients our policy is such that you may cancel without penalty until 48 hours prior to 7:30 AM (check in time) the day of your trip. Please keep in mind that once you make your reservation our booking platform will update instantly which means we cannot book those spots. If you cancel within 48 hours of your trip or if you don’t show up on time YOU WILL BE CHARGED IN FULL AMOUNT of your reservation. We also want to remind our guest that within 48 hours of your check in time TICKETS ARE NON REFUNDABLE AND NOT REUSABLE unless and only if we have availability to reschedule on a future date. Please understand that if you wish to reschedule you must do so within 48 hours prior to the check in time of your original trip and is only based on availability. There is no added fee or charge for rescheduling.

• Chevron down Important Terms & Conditions
• Cancellations made 48 hours (2 days) prior to the scheduled tour date will receive a full refund.
• Cancellations within 48 hours prior to the scheduled departure date are non-refundable.
• No-shows and late arrivals for the time the tour is scheduled to begin (7:30 am check in), will be charged full price, are non refundable and rescheduling is not available.
• Same day cancellations are considered a no-show and are non-refundable, NO EXCEPTIONS.
• We reserve the right to cancel a public sail if a minimum is not met. Customers will be given a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
• All boat tours and boat charters are subject to weather conditions and destinations are selected as per captain discretion. Please call the day before for the latest updates. We try our best to keep our customers well informed of local weather forecasts so that our guests may plan accordingly. If we have to cancel a boat tour due to weather or sea conditions, you will not be charged and you will have the option to reschedule for the next available date. Our captain is the only authorized personnel to make a final decision as to weather conditions. Please note that Fajardo’s weather can differ greatly from the weather in San Juan or wherever you may be staying.
• Please don’t make the mistake of deciding not to come if it’s raining where you are, as you will be charged if the trip goes out. If you have any questions about the weather conditions, please call us directly.
• Passengers who are inebriated, hungover or who are not in conditions to board the vessel, will not be allowed to participate and the money will be non-refundable.
• Due to the unique nature of our boat tours and the number of passengers allowed, we are forced to remain firm about our cancellation policy.  Regardless of the cancellation reason, our time and fixed cost are already invested.  We may have turned down other customers by holding your space.
• Must arrive on time, if not, boat leaves and refunds will not be issued.
• No coolers or outside alcoholic beverages allowed on board.
• No Hookahs allowed on board with no exceptions.
• This excursion requires a minimum number of 15 passengers in order to provide the tour. In the event this minimum is not met, we will call the customers with confirmed reservations to go over alternative options including rebooking, full refunds or gift cards for a future occasion.

St Regis Guest, please email: [email protected]

• Most Popular

Catamaran Day Trip (Icacos Island)

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 5.5 hrs
• Users Ages: Ages 4+
• Tags Occupancy: Up to 44 People
• Info Category: Boat Tour

BAREFOOT IV Catamaran

Sail aboard our 47’ catamaran the Barefoot IV and enjoy an amazing experience. This tour is perfect for families, groups, and solo travelers. Bask in the majestic Caribbean waters, explore reefs and an inhabited island (Icacos), soak up the sun, maybe dance some salsa or reggaeton, sip tropical drinks with local rum, disconnect and recharge on our best-selling tour.

• Tour departs from Villa Marina in Fajardo • Address: Avenida Marina View, Fajardo, CLICK HERE for Google Maps navigation • 1hr from San Juan • 1.5hrs from Dorado • 35min from Rio Grande

Tour Includes:

• 5.5hrs duration • Snorkel equipment • Floating belts • Boxed lunch including sandwich, chips, pasta salad, cookies. (Choose between turkey or veggie at booking) • Beverages: water, sodas, and tropical rum drinks

• Check in it at 8:15 am • Depart Villa Marina 9:00 am • Arrives at Icacos Island 9:45 am • Departs Icacos Island for snorkeling site 12:00 am • Return to Marina 2:30 pm

Transfers ** Not included ** For San Juan-Metro Are Hotels a shuttle transfer is available for a fee of $50.00 per person round trip. If you are staying in any other area, please call for a private transfer quote and options.

A minimum of 6 passengers is required for the shuttle to go out. 

Restrictions:

• The minimum age is 4ys. Proof of age will be required at check-in.
• Due to high-risk, pregnant women may not participate in this tour.
• People with mobility needs may not be able to enjoy the boat as this is not ADA-compliant.
• Any person with chronic heart conditions.
• People with severe motion sickness.

Q: What are the minimum and maximum ages? A: Minimum age for this tour is 4yrs, and proof of age will be required.

Q: What is the maximum capacity of the Barefoot IV? A: Maximum certified capacity is 44 guests; children and count as 1 person. (Please note this is currently affected by Puerto Rico’s Government Executive Order)

Q: Is there special pricing for kids? A: Yes, $94.99.

Q: Is the Barefoot IV US Coast Guard Certified? A: The Barefoot IV is USCG Certified.

Q: Can you bring a cooler and or additional food? A: Due to limited space, no additional coolers can be brought on board. You can bring your own snacks on your beach bag and Yeti-style cups with your favorite beverages. We do not allow any type of glass containers, including beer & hard liquor. If crew members identify such containers, they will be confiscated until the boat returns to dry land.

Q: Do I need to bring a towel? A: Towel service is not provided on board. Please bring your own towel.

Q: Is there music on board? A: Our crew likes to party! Please be certain that Top ’40s will be played while on board.

Q: What if I cannot swim? A: The waters at Icacos are shallow, and you will be able to walk to the shore, for reassurance we do provide floating belts for all who request them.

Q: What if I get dizzy on boats? A: We recommend you consult with your doctor for adequate medicine to reduce the motion sickness symptoms. If your symptoms are severe, maybe this tour is not for you.

Q: Do you rent the boat for private charters? A: Yes, please email [email protected] for more information. Make sure you include dates, amount of people, and if you will need transportation.

20 Best Places to Visit in Puerto Rico — From Uninhabited Islands to Bioluminescent Bays

With incredible beaches and historic cities, Puerto Rico is a must-visit island destination.

Everyone from  reggaetoneros  hunting out Bad Bunny's favorite party places to starry-eyed honeymooners drawn by posh beach resorts can agree: Puerto Rico easily lives up to its name as the  Isla del Encanto , the Island of Enchantment. A slew of new  flights to the island offered by Delta  and other major carriers are kicking off this winter, making it easier than ever to enjoy a trip to this tropical paradise —  no passport needed .

Part of the joy of a visit to Puerto Rico comes from scouting out its hidden beaches, visiting tiny, white-sand islets, and hiking to the jungle waterfalls that other travelers missed. With the help of locals and insiders from PADI, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, and Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, we've assembled a list of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico, from the best surf spots to winding cave systems and the best places to chow down on  local dishes like  alcapurrias  and  mofongo . 

Related:  Travel + Leisure 's Guide to Visiting Puerto Rico

Old San Juan

The historic heart of Puerto Rico's capital, Old San Juan is vibrant beyond its colorful colonial architecture or its iconic "Umbrella Street," Calle de la Fortaleza. Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old mansions before arriving at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a Spanish fortress crowning the western tip of the historic neighborhood and offering spectacular ocean views. End a day of exploring with local bites at one of the neighborhood's countless rooftop restaurants or with a drink at  La Factoría , named the best bar in the Caribbean in 2023.

The oceanfront Condado neighborhood is the place to be in San Juan, with upscale apartments, the city's best restaurants, and plenty of fantastic shopping. Visit La Placita de Santurce, a favorite destination with locals and visitors alike, for frequent cultural events, street parties, and  Puerto Rican bites  at local spots like La Alcapurria Quemá.

Condado is also home to some of our readers' favorite resorts in Puerto Rico . Among them shines the Condado Collection of hotels and resorts, including  La Concha Resort ,   Condado Vanderbilt Hotel , and  Condado Ocean Club , nestled along some of the most beautiful beachfront in San Juan.

Dorado Beach

Those looking to enjoy a retreat from energetic San Juan without traveling far will love the palm-fringed, pristine beaches of swanky Dorado Beach. Stay at  Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , perhaps Puerto Rico's most exclusive resort. Known for its championship golf courses and the sanctuary-esque Spa Botánico with treehouse treatment rooms, it offers the bespoke luxury experience you'd expect from a Ritz-Carlton Reserve property.

El Yunque National Forest

The only tropical rainforest within the U.S. National Forest System,  El Yunque National Fo rest  is one of the island's natural gems, crisscrossed by hiking trails and home to endless rivers and hidden waterfalls. While El Yunque makes for a popular day trip from San Juan, there's much more to explore than a day trip allows, including  natural swimming holes  like Charco El Hippie and the over 1,500-foot-tall Yokahú Observation Tower with its panoramic canopy vistas. Finish your visit with a stop for farm-to-table Puerto Rican cuisine at nearby  Bacoa Finca + Fogón . 

Related:  T+L's Guide to the Underrated Region of Eastern Puerto Rico

There are no stoplights on the island of Vieques, just untouched beaches and dreamy boutique accommodations on the largest island off the coast of the Puerto Rican mainland. The most popular attraction on Vieques is the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, which glows blue at night as visitors kayak through its waters filled with phosphorescent plankton. Enjoy a day trip to the island or spend a few nights at  Finca Victoria  in one of 14 unique cabins, treehouses, or guesthouses amidst the lush vegetation of the island's interior.

La Parguera

Travelers who can't make it to Vieques to experience Puerto Rico's most famous bioluminescent bay should head to  La Parguera . Located on the island's southwestern coast, La Parguera is home to the only bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico where visitors can swim through the glimmering waters, so make sure to bring your suit. Drive in for the experience, or spend a night in one of the small guesthouses in town and spend the day visiting nearby keys for snorkeling and paddleboarding among the mangroves.

Located off the eastern shore of the main island of Puerto Rico, the laid-back island of Culebra is tiny but packs a serious travel punch. Home to less than 2,000 permanent residents, it earned a spot on our list of our  readers' favorite islands in the Caribbean in 2023 . Culebra's famed Flamenco Beach often appears atop lists of the world's most beautiful beaches. The abandoned, graffiti-covered U.S. Navy tank at one end of the shore is simultaneously an Instagram icon and a dark monument to the island's past use for naval gunning and bombing exercises.

From Culebra, jump on a 15-minute water taxi ride to the even more remote islet of Culebrita. Impressive beaches with impossibly clear water are the main draw to this speck of an island. Tortuga Beach, named for the numerous sea turtles that nest here year after year, is considered one of the  best beaches in Puerto Rico .

Cayo Icacos

Yet another of the white-sand keys located off the island's eastern coast,  Cayo Icacos  is an increasingly popular day trip destination in Puerto Rico that beach lovers won't want to miss. Take an excursion from Fajardo to Cayo Icacos by booking a catamaran trip to enjoy the untouched beaches and shallow waters of this uninhabited island for the day.

Río Camuy Caves

Escape the heat of the Caribbean sun at Río Camuy Cave Park  in northwestern Puerto Rico. These limestone caverns have been carved out over centuries by the immense underground river, Río Camuy. While geologists have identified at least 220 caves and 17 miles of natural tunnels, much of the area remains unexplored. Reservations are required, so make sure to book in advance with a registered tour company.

Palomino Island

"Forget the Maldives, I'll stay in Palomino," muses Bad Bunny in his hit song, "El Apagón." There are no overwater bungalows here, but the white sands and clear seas at Palomino Island certainly warrant a comparison to a Maldivian atoll. The 100-acre, uninhabited island off the eastern coast of the Puerto Rican mainland is for the exclusive use of guests of the  El Conquistador Resort , located just a short ferry ride away.

On the island's western shores, the town of Rincón reigns supreme as one of the best destinations for surfing in the Caribbean. Numerous beaches offer waves for surfers of all levels, though Domes Beach is where you'll find the massive swells that host an international surfing competition every year. October through February is the  best time to visit Puerto Rico  if you're scouting out waves, but Rincón has plenty to offer year-round, even for those who prefer to stay on the shore.

Desecheo Island

Puerto Rico is home to an impressive array of diving destinations, but few are as famous as the uninhabited Desecheo Island, located just off the island's western coast. With an intricate cave system offering memorable swim-throughs and a dive site so colorful it's known as “Candy Land,” visitors will have plenty to see while enjoying what  PADI  considers some of the best underwater visibility in all of Puerto Rico.

Surfers and travelers scouting out the best beaches on the island will love Aguadilla, located on the island's western coast. Aguadilla's Crash Boat Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the island, with an intoxicating mix of white sand, water sports, and a party atmosphere fed all day by beach bars and food trucks serving up tropical cocktails and local fare. While the beach offers great visibility for snorkeling, take care when getting in the water; towards the north of the beach is Gas Chambers, one of Puerto Rico's most famous surfing breaks.

Many travelers skip over Mayagüez, the largest city on Puerto Rico's western coast, and head directly for the area's smaller beach towns. However, Mayagüez can be a convenient base for exploring the best of the western side of the island; its charming historic center and booming culinary scene certainly don't hurt. Mayagüez is also known as the "City of Pure Waters" for its proximity to some of Puerto Rico's best diving destinations, including Desecheo Island and Mona Island.

Isabela is Puerto Rico's ultimate laid-back beach town, boasting shores that attract everyone from backpackers and surfers to the San Juan elite looking for a weekend escape. Trace the coastline and visit Isabela's most beautiful beaches by renting a bike and hitting the Paseo Lineal de Isabela, a 4.5-mile oceanfront route perfect for morning jogs or contemplating the sunset. Or, head inland to Guajataca State Forest for miles of lush, forested trails, hidden caves, and camping.

Puerto Rico's second-largest city tends to be overlooked by travelers, but the "Pearl of the South" has the historical charm and cultural weight to warrant a trip. Explore the city's historic plazas and numerous museums, or escape to the countryside for a visit to  Hacienda Buena Vista , a coffee hacienda (among countless others) that once brought Ponce both wealth and fame.

Casa Bacardí

It wouldn't be a trip to the Caribbean without sampling some of the best local rums. Puerto Rico is home to a few different distilleries, though  Casa Bacardí , located just across the bay from Old San Juan, is the number one destination on the island for visitors curious to learn more about the Caribbean's most famous beverage. An impressive visitors' center and panoramic views of the city make for a great tasting and tour experience, though the unmatched rum selection is the real star of the show. 

Related:  5 Best Tours to Take in Puerto Rico

Located just 45 minutes west of San Juan, the coastal town of  Manatí  feels a world away from the big city. Come here for stunning, less-crowded beaches like the half-moon-shaped crystalline bay at Mar Chiquita or Los Tubos Beach, known for its perfect surfing pipes. 

Puerto Rico's  Capital del Sol (Capital of the Sun) is fittingly home to some of the island's most beautiful beaches. Luquillo Beach and Balneario Monserrate are the most popular playas in the area for their size and extensive public beach amenities, but there are several beaches in Luquillo to choose from. Head to Luquillo after a day spent exploring neighboring El Yunque National Forest, or use this town as a base for exploring less-visited areas of the rainforest.

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TOP facts about Kyiv metro

Kyiv boasts to have thousands of exciting sightseeing and surely can impress even experienced travelers. There are numerous things to see in Kyiv:  historical buildings and monuments, beautiful streets and squares, amazing places and stories of prominent people who lived or worked here. Definitely, Kyiv subway system is one of the things to see and explore in Kiev! The first metro station was opened in Kyiv on November 1960.  Kyiv metro system became the third subway in the USSR after Moscow and St. Petersburg. We have prepared Top 10 most interesting facts about Kyiv metro.

So, let’s find out – How does Kyiv metro work? How much does it cost? Is it worth explore Kyiv subway?

How many lines and stations does Kyiv metro have?

There are three lines: red, blue and green. The total length of the lines is 70 km. In order to change the lines You need to use interchange stations. There are 52 stations, including three interchange stations (Khreshchatyk – Independence Square, Lva Tolstogo station – Palatz Sporty, Golden Gate – Teatralna);

Arsenalna metro station is  the deepest station in the world (over 105 m). This is a London-type station with no central lobby. You need to take two escalators to go down to the station and it takes around 5 minutes.

Golden Gate Station is one of the most beautiful stations in Europe. In 2012, the British Daily Telegraph has recognized the station as one of the 22 most beautiful in Europe. The lobby of the Golden Gate is decorated with unimaginably beautiful and unique mosaics. Each one tells a different story about all the Kiev princes of Kievan Rus, the founders of Kiev – Kiy, Schek and Khoriv, saints and even the most famous Kiev churches.

How much does Kyiv metro cost?

One trip costs 8 UAH, what is equal to 0,33USD or 0.30 EURO. Price does not depend on length, it is charged per trip. The first tickets were paper one, of course, with Lenin image. Currently the metro wants completely exclude usage of tokens and cash payment.

Kyiv smart card – a unified system of payment for transport in Kiev. Single electronic receipt allows you to pay for all types of transport in Kiev.

How fast is Kyiv metro?

There are no trash bins and toilets in the Kiev metro. All because of safety measure against fire and terrorism. Still You will be suprised that Kyiv metro is very clean having no trash bins.

Metro as an art object

There are eight large-scale murals painted  on the Osokorki metro station. Eight artists from Brazil, Switzerland, the USA, Costa Rica, Spain, Belgium and Ukraine worked on the project for 4 months, every night from 01:00 am to 05:00 am– while the subway does not work. The main idea of murals is to show identity of the Ukrainians.  Let us show You few murals.

This is photo of Vladimir Donos – the school teacher of Gadyach (Poltava region) and the hero of the ATO.  In 2014, the battalion of Vladimir came under enemy fire near Ilovaisk. He was seriously wounded in the leg and laid in the forest for five days among the bodies of his fellow soldiers. The knowledge he gained from books throughout his life, and his love to family, helped him to survive. Five days later, two locals found him and took him to a Donetsk hospital, where his leg was amputated, and he was captured. September 18, he was released from captivity. Today, Vladimir Donos is again working as a school teacher in his hometown of Gadyach, Poltava region.

Mural with Bogdan Stupka – famouse Ukrainian actor and cultural leader – stress on the idea that culture unites all. The Carpathian mountains on the left and Donetsk heap on the right together with the inscription behind the portrait “United” symbolizes that culture unites all of us.

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