Goat Island and Cañuelo Fort Isla de Cabras and Fuerte del Cañuelo

For travelers craving a natural setting and private location, Goat Island and Cañueleo Fort (Isla de Cabras and Fuerte del Cañueleo) is the best such refuge near San Juan. Shade trees, park benches and a rocky seashore are about all of the area's attractions. On the north end of the island are ruins that mark a 19th C leper colony. On the south end of the island are the ruins of the Cañuelo Fort (1610) that at one time defended the San Juan Bay.

Note that although the water around Boat Island may seem inviting on a hot day, the offshore currents are too strong for swimming.