Fajardo is a beautiful place, surrounded by islands, cays, natural reserves, and beaches. There is much to explore here, both on and off the water. The town is home to a half-dozen marinas, one of which is the largest in the Caribbean. Fajardo is a leader in sailing, parasailing, catamaran chartering, and many other water-based activities. One of the most famous attractions in Fajardo is one of the three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico. You can kayak and explore the fascinating diversity of marine life.
Additionally, the Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve is a must-visit place for outdoor enthusiasts. During your visit to Fajardo, you can enjoy many popular activities. One of the most popular is snorkelling, thanks to the incredible underwater life here.
Seven Seas
Located in Fajardo, the most popular Balneario offers a serene coastline perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The crescent-shaped beach at Seven Seas is dotted with palm and almond trees, providing ample shade for picnics and relaxation. The beach also features several food kiosks and restaurants at the entrance of Las Cabezas de San Juan, also known as Parque Pasivo Las Croabas. This stunning and peaceful beach has pavilions, parking, camping areas, restrooms, and showers. Additionally, you can enjoy floating around two rock formations at La Zanja.
La Zanja
Perhaps one of the most “Instagrammable” places in Fajardo is La Zanja (The Ditch), one of the town’s off-the-beaten-path wonders. La Zanja is a natural pool created when the waves from the Atlantic crash on the rocks and fill in the long, “ditch-like” indentation. If you like adventure, it’s about a 20 to 30-minute hike from Seven Seas to this secluded location, and you’ll get to enjoy some scenery along the road less travelled.
Playa Escondido and Playa Colorá are two of Fajardo’s hidden gems.
Playa Escondida and Playa Colorá
Fajardo boasts two hidden gems, Playa Escondida and Playa Colorá, separated by a small peninsula called Cabeza Chiquita (Small Head). These two beaches are part of the Northeast Ecological Corridor, and reaching them requires a bit of hiking. Playa Colorá gets its name from its reddish-coloured sand, which contrasts beautifully with the turquoise waters. Playa Escondido, on the other hand, is surrounded by mangroves and offers a serene environment with its golden sand. Additionally, Icacos Island is another pristine location worth exploring when in Fajardo.
Snorkel Around Other Cays and Islets
The Cordillera Natural Reserve is comprised of remote keys and cays that are home to a wide variety of ocean life. Palomino Island, owned by El Conquistador Hotel, offers activities like diving, beach volleyball, paddle boarding, and snorkelling around the reefs. Icacos Island is another must-see destination with its diamond-dust shore and clear waters. The abundant coral reefs are home to schools of fish and other marine creatures that make it a perfect spot for nature lovers. It’s considered as Fajardo’s best-kept beach and is the most significant key of the Cordillera Natural Reserve. Spend the day working on your tan and enjoying the ocean breeze in this paradise.
Other nearby cays include Cayo Lobos, Cayo Ratones, Cayo Diablo, and Cayo Cucarachas. Charter a catamaran to go beach and cay-hopping with some friends. Alternatively, you can book a private mini-speed boat tour with the only tour operator offering this experience on the Island, Kayaking Puerto Rico. The mini-speed boat tour includes refreshments and snacks to keep you fueled as you explore these Insta-worthy spots.
Finally, take advantage of the opportunity to paddle through Laguna Grande Bio Bay in Fajardo. You can watch the water sparkle to life and explore the diverse marine life present in the area.
Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Bay
Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve is home to one of the most popular attractions in Puerto Rico - Laguna Grande. Though it is one of the three bio-bays in the area, it is technically a lagoon due to its narrow and long canal. You can take a small boat or kayak and witness a surreal moment when the water lights up and glows in the dark. This natural phenomenon is caused by microscopic organisms in the water that react to agitation. While swimming is not allowed, you can still experience the magic of the lagoon by agitating the water with your hands. It is advisable to book in advance and keep in mind that less moonlight will enhance the experience. Additionally, you can enjoy kayaking while admiring Las Croabas Park and Fajardo’s Lighthouse - the oldest lighthouse in Puerto Rico.
Fajardo’s Lighthouse
Located inside the Nature Reserve, El Faro de Fajardo is the oldest lighthouse in Puerto Rico, situated on a headland. The structure is decorated with neoclassical details and crowned with a Spanish colonial tower that overlooks the cliff. Visitors can explore a nature centre and an observation deck that offers stunning views of the bay.
Las Croabas Park
Las Croabas Recreation Park is a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. The park offers open-air pavilions to relax and take in the surroundings. You can ride bicycles, skate, fly kites, have a picnic, take a walk, or even exercise. The park has several trails and boardwalks, as well as slides and swings for kids to play on. There is something for everyone at Las Croabas Recreation Park.
