Fajardo Tourist Attractions
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On the northeast tip of Puerto Rico, Fajardo appeals to visitors who are especially attracted to water activities. Former fishing boats now offer boat excursions and snorkeling or scuba diving adventures. Ferry service to Vieques and Culebra is offered in Fajardo and boat trips to the islands of Palominos, Icacos, and Lobos are also available.Although Fajardo itself may not be the most attractive place in Puerto Rico it can serve as a good base for exploring some of the nearby natural wonders and small towns, including Las Cabezas de San Juan reserve, Villa Marina, and Las Croabas.
Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve
Designated as a nature reserve in the 1980s, Las Cabezas de San Juan Reserva Natural El Faro stretches over 316ac/128ha of land including almost all of the island's ecosystems (mangrove lagoon, dry forest, coconut plantation and coral reef). On site at this nature reserve is a neoclassic lighthouse (registered with the National Trust) in operation since 1882. The lighthouse stands atop the rugged cliffs. There are 2mi / 3.2km of boardwalks and trails throughout Las Cabesza de San Juan Nature Reserve, however you must have a guided tour.Another way of seeing some of the park is on a kayaking tour.
Las Cabezas - Laguna Grande
Laguna Grande is a phosphorescent lagoon found within the Cabezas Nature Reserve. It is a popular destination for kayaking and hiking, with a nearby trail called the Bisley Trail.
Puerto del Rey
2mi/3.2km south of Fajardo is the Puerto del Rey, Puerto Rico's largest marina with 750 slips. Most of the sailing and fishing charters take off from this marina, which includes a village with restaurants, stores, laundry and banking facilities. Yachties come here to take advantage of the protected cove and re-stock supplies (at the time of writing the Puerto del Rey Marina offered a free transportation service to boaters wanting to go to town for supplies).Puerto del Rey is also an interesting sight for non boaters who want to come have a look at some of the boats parked here.
Icacos, Lobos, and Palominos Islands
Boat excursions to the uninhabited islands of Icacos, Lobos and Palominos leave daily from the marinas in Fajardo. Calm waters that make them ideal for snorkeling and diving surround the beaches. Palominos Island, along with nearby Palminitos island, are located almost directly east of Playa Fajardo, outside the town of Fajardo. North of Palominos are the islands of Icacos, Ratones, and Lobos.Visiting the islands makes a good day excursion from Fajardo and it's a nice way to spend some time on the ocean.
Fajardo Airport
The small Fajardo Airport offers flights to Vieques and Culebra islands off the east coast. It is also possible to charter planes to other nearby destinations. This airstrip is only for small planes but is actually quite busy.
