Cayo Icacos, Puerto Rico: Complete Visitor's Guide (2025)

Cayo Icacos: Your Ultimate Guide to This Uninhabited Island Paradise

Imagine stepping onto a white-sand beach fringed with swaying palms, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The only sounds are the gentle lapping of waves and the calls of seabirds overhead. This idyllic scene awaits you at Cayo Icacos, a small, uninhabited island off the coast of Fajardo, Puerto Rico.

Cayo Icacos is a jewel of the Cordillera Reef Nature Reserve, renowned for its pristine beauty and abundant marine life. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler, a sun-worshipper, or simply seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cayo Icacos offers an unforgettable experience.

Why Visit Cayo Icacos?

Cayo Icacos is more than just a beautiful beach; it's a sanctuary for nature lovers. Here's what makes it special:

• Pristine Beaches: Sink your toes into the soft, white sand and soak up the Caribbean sun. The beaches of Cayo Icacos are consistently ranked among the most beautiful in Puerto Rico.
• Crystal-Clear Waters: The waters surrounding Cayo Icacos are incredibly clear, offering excellent visibility for snorkeling and swimming.
• Vibrant Marine Life: Explore a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and other fascinating sea creatures. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, rays, and a variety of tropical fish.
• Uninhabited Paradise: Escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of an uninhabited island. Cayo Icacos offers a true sense of seclusion and natural beauty.

How to Get to Cayo Icacos

Since Cayo Icacos is an uninhabited island, you'll need to take a boat to get there. Here are the most popular options:

• Catamaran Tours: Many tour operators offer day trips to Cayo Icacos from Fajardo. These tours typically include transportation, snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks. This is a great option for those who want a hassle-free experience. Some popular options depart from the marina in Fajardo. Catamaran tours to Cayo Icacos typically range from $75-$125 per person. Prices may vary depending on the season, the operator, and the inclusions.
• Water Taxis: A more budget-friendly option is to take a water taxi from Las Croabas in Fajardo. These smaller boats offer a quicker and more personalized experience. Be sure to arrange your return trip in advance. Water taxis are generally cheaper, ranging from $40-$60 per person for a round trip.
• Private Boat Charters: For a more luxurious experience, you can charter a private boat. This gives you the flexibility to customize your itinerary and spend as much time as you like on the island.

How Far is Cayo Icacos from San Juan? Cayo Icacos is approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute drive from San Juan to Fajardo, followed by a 20-30 minute boat ride from Fajardo. Cayo Icacos is located approximately 3 nautical miles off the coast of Fajardo. The distance from San Juan to the Fajardo marinas is around 40 miles.

Most tours to Cayo Icacos depart from the marinas in Fajardo, such as Villa Marina (GPS coordinates: 18.3500, -65.6330) or Puerto Del Rey Marina (GPS coordinates: 18.3333, -65.6333).

Things to Do on Cayo Icacos

• Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside colorful fish. The calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkelers of all levels. "'Cayo Icacos is one of the best places in Puerto Rico to see healthy coral reefs,' says Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a marine biologist at the University of Puerto Rico."
• Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. The gentle waves and shallow depths make it a great spot for swimming.
• Sunbathing: Relax on the white-sand beach and soak up the Caribbean sun.
• Beachcombing: Stroll along the shoreline and search for seashells and other treasures.
• Picnicking: Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on the beach. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the island pristine.
• Exploring: Take a walk around the small island and admire the natural beauty. Cayo Icacos boasts over 2 miles of pristine coastline.

Tips for Visiting Cayo Icacos

• Book Your Tour in Advance: Especially during peak season, it's a good idea to book your tour or water taxi in advance to secure your spot.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Cayo Icacos is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The summer months can be hot and humid, while the winter months may experience slightly cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so be sure to check the weather forecast before you go.
• Bring Sunscreen: The Caribbean sun is strong, so be sure to bring plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Pack Water and Snacks: There are no facilities on Cayo Icacos, so bring your own water and snacks.
• Wear Water Shoes: The seabed can be rocky in some areas, so water shoes are recommended.
• Respect the Environment: Cayo Icacos is a protected natural area. Please help keep it pristine by packing out all your trash and avoiding disturbing the wildlife. Cayo Icacos is part of the Cordillera Reef Nature Reserve, which encompasses over 20 islands and cays. Certain regulations are in place to protect the environment. These include restrictions on fishing, anchoring, and the use of certain types of sunscreen. Be sure to check with your tour operator for the latest regulations.
• Check the Weather: Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go, as boat trips may be canceled due to rough seas.
• Packing List:
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Swimsuit
  • Towel
  • Water shoes
  • Waterproof bag
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Camera

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is Cayo Icacos located? Cayo Icacos is located off the east coast of Puerto Rico, near Fajardo.
• Cayo Icacos Map: Here you can find a map
• Cayo Icacos: How to Get There: As mentioned above, the best ways are by catamaran tour, water taxi or private charter from Fajardo.

Cayo Icacos: An Unforgettable Island Getaway

Cayo Icacos offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Puerto Rico in its purest form. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this uninhabited island paradise is sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags, book your tour, and prepare for an unforgettable day trip to Cayo Icacos!

Plan your trip to Cayo Icacos today and discover the magic of this hidden gem in the Caribbean! You will not regret experiencing the beauty of Cayo Icacos for yourself!