Written By: Captain Alberto Jimenez

What is Icacos Island?

Cayo Icacos, often referred to as Icacos Island, is a small, uninhabited island located off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, near the town of Fajardo. It is the largest and most picturesque cay in the La Cordillera Nature Reserve, known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island is a popular destination for day trips due to its natural beauty and proximity to Puerto Rico's mainland, being only 1.5 miles away. Icacos Island is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities and serene beach environment, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

How to Get to Icacos Island

There are two primary ways to reach Icacos Island: by water taxi or catamaran.

• Water Taxi: Water taxis depart from the Las Croabas neighborhood in Fajardo and take about 20 minutes to reach the island. These small boats typically carry between 6 to 12 passengers and charge around $50-$70 per person for a round trip. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Catamaran Charters: For a more comfortable experience, you can book a catamaran tour from marinas such as Marina Puerto del Rey or Villa Marina. These tours often include amenities like snorkeling gear, food, and refreshments. Catamarans provide a more leisurely journey with opportunities to enjoy the ocean breeze and scenic views along the way.

Things to Do in Cayo Icacos

Cayo Icacos offers a variety of activities for visitors:

• Snorkeling: The island's clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life including tropical fish and sea turtles.

• Beach Relaxation: Enjoy sunbathing on the island's pristine beaches or take a leisurely swim in the warm Caribbean waters.

• Hiking: Explore the island on foot to discover hidden ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding seascape.

• Picnicking: With no facilities on the island, bringing your own picnic supplies allows you to enjoy a meal amidst natural beauty.

What to Bring to Cayo Icacos

Given that Cayo Icacos is uninhabited with no facilities, it’s important to pack essentials for your visit:

• Plenty of drinking water

• Food and snacks

• Sunscreen and sun protection (hat, umbrella)

• Towels

• Swimwear and snorkeling gear

• Camera

• Bug spray

• A cell phone (there is service available)

Cayo Icacos Compared to Other Popular Island Destination

Cayo Icacos offers a more secluded experience compared to Vieques and Culebra. While Vieques is known for its bioluminescent bay and larger size offering more activities, Culebra is famous for Flamenco Beach and laid-back vibes. San Juan beaches provide urban convenience but lack the untouched beauty found on these smaller islands