Puerto Rico is one of the best kept secrets in the Caribbean! Not only is it home to the only US tropical rainforest and three of only five bioluminescent bays in the world, its crystal waters, white sand beaches and endless reefs will make you never want to return home. In addition to all the activities in Puerto Rico on the mainland, there are a ton activities to do offshore as well!
The east coast of Puerto Rico is the departure point for many of the excursions which will take you to other islands. Icacos Island, Palomino Island, Palominito Island, Lobos Island… you get the idea! But each island is different:
Icacos Island is a small piece of paradise off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico which can only be reached by water taxi. The beaches are white and the water is blue with no buildings on the island to spoil the scenery. The water taxi ride from Fajardo takes approximately 20 minutes and is worth every second! We recommend that you bring some food and drinks and make a day of it! There are no restrooms or restaurants on this island so prepare accordingly.
Palomino Island is a 100 acre oasis straight east of Fajardo. This island has plenty to offer! Activities include horseback riding, jet skis, snorkeling and other water sports. This island is home to Iguana’s, a waterfront café offering burgers, seafood, tropical drinks and much more. This is actually a private island, but parts of it are rented out by the Conquistador Hotel and therefore… basically open to the public! The rumor is that the owner of the island gets paid $30,000 per month just to use part of his island. Not a bad gig!
Palomito Island is a small island, off the coast of an island (Palomino Island)… which is off the coast of another island (Puerto Rico)! Do we need to say more? The island is an iconic scene to say the least. Gorgeous blue water, white sand, limited tourist traffic. This island has no facilities so plan to pack accordingly. Scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean 4 were filmed right here!
Lobos Island is east of Icacos along the north eastern tip of mainland Puerto Rico. It is also a private island but unfortunately none of it is open to the public. However, there are some AMZING reefs that can be viewed while snorkeling! Word is that Ricky Martin often vacations here.
