The East End of Puerto Rico is home to the verdant beauty, catamaran day trips and kayaking in bioluminescent bays. It’s the perfect alternative destination to the ever-popular San Juan. Here are the best places to eat, play and stay in the East End.
What to do
Puerto del Rey Marina
Located on the eastern tip of Puerto Rico, Puerto del Rey Marina is close to the islands of Vieques, Culebra and Icacos.
East Island Excursions offers guided catamaran trips to Icacos and Culebra. The latter, an island of just under 2,000 residents, is a popular destination due to its stunning, horseshoe-shaped Flamenco Beach. It’s dotted with beach bars where you can sip while soaking in the shun, and shops to explore and enjoy.
If you’re looking for a more elusive deserted island vibe, sail to Icacos. Though there are no residents or facilities, a short stroll rewards you with a secluded private beach perfect for shell collecting or watching fish dart around tidal pools.
Since the pandemic, the operator has made changes to all excursions. All guests must wear masks while in the marina and during the excursion, the buffet lunch has been changed to a pre-made chicken wrap (with gluten-free and veggie options available). Snorkelers must bring their own equipment (except for fins), boat capacity has been reduced to comply with government orders and all guests must sign an electronic waiver before the day of the excursion.
Tours begin with a 45-minute boat trip and include unlimited rum drinks. During the excursion, the captain will take you to a snorkeling spot that will vary depending on water conditions; don’t be surprised if a rum-fueled raucous dance party ensues on deck on the return trip.
Tours depart daily from the marina around 9:30am and return around 3:30pm, and prices start at USD$99 per adult. Transportation is $20 per person from most hotels and guesthouses in metro San Juan.
Fajardo Bio Bay
Fajardo Bio Bay, a 20-minute drive north from Puerto del Rey Marina, comes alive at night thanks to the phenomenon of bioluminescence. Microorganisms that emit specific molecules and enzymes that make the water glow are abundant here.
Due to the effects of climate change bio bays around the world are dimming, but Puerto Rico remains one of the top spots to see this rare magic trick. Kayaking Puerto Rico is just one of many places to book a…
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