Cayo Icacos Puerto Rico
An uninhabited island paradise with pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for boating, snorkeling, and relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Cayo Icacos Puerto Rico
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An uninhabited island paradise with pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for boating, snorkeling, and relaxation.
"This place is an absolute dream. Crystal clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and total island peace."
🪪 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours fill up fast! Secure your catamaran or private charter from Fajardo in advance.
🎒 Pack All Your Essentials
No vendors here! Bring water, food, cooler, umbrella, and chairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters
Beaches of Cayo Icacos
Immerse yourself in the breathtakingly clear, turquoise waters that make Cayo Icacos a true Caribbean gem. Perfect for swimming and wading.
Powdery White Sand Beaches
Cayo Icacos shoreline
Relax on the soft, powdery white sand beaches that stretch along the island's coast. Ideal for sunbathing and unwinding.
Snorkeling Adventures
Nearshore reefs
Explore vibrant underwater life with excellent snorkeling opportunities right off the beach or on guided tours.
Dolphin Sightings
Surrounding waters
Keep an eye out for playful dolphins that often frequent the waters around Cayo Icacos. A magical bonus to your island visit!
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Transport in Advance
Pack Smart for an Unspoiled Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪪 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours fill up fast! Secure your catamaran or private charter from Fajardo in advance. +2
🎒 Pack All Your Essentials
No vendors here! Bring water, food, cooler, umbrella, and chairs.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Included?
Many tours provide masks and snorkels. Check when booking for a hassle-free experience.
🚁 Drone Views are Epic
Capture stunning aerial shots of the island's beauty. Check local drone regulations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🪪 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours fill up fast! Secure your catamaran or private charter from Fajardo in advance. +2
🎒 Pack All Your Essentials
No vendors here! Bring water, food, cooler, umbrella, and chairs.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Included?
Many tours provide masks and snorkels. Check when booking for a hassle-free experience.
🚁 Drone Views are Epic
Capture stunning aerial shots of the island's beauty. Check local drone regulations.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
Keep an eye out for dolphins; they're often seen in the surrounding waters! +1
💧 Water Taxi Option
Consider a water taxi from Fajardo for a quicker trip to the island. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cayo Icacos is overwhelmingly praised as an absolute dream destination with stunning turquoise waters and soft white sand, offering a sense of secluded paradise. Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty, excellent snorkeling, and the peaceful, natural environment. While some note the lack of facilities and the need to be self-sufficient, the overall experience is consistently rated as a must-visit in Puerto Rico.
"Cayo Icacos… my God! This place is an absolute dream. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by crystal clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and total island peace. It’s like something out of a movie remote, raw, and breathtakingly beautiful.
We took a boat over (pro tip: contact the locals they’ll take you there and back easily), and once we got there, it felt like we had the whole island to ourselves. I brought my drone with me, and the footage I captured was unreal blue water stretching as far as the eye can see, and the contrast with the white sand is just wow. It really shows off how stunning this place is from above.
Make sure you come prepared: bring food, drinks, water, a cooler with ice, and a beach umbrella there are no vendors on the island. It’s just you and nature.
Between the swimming, the snorkeling, and the quiet, this was easily one of the best beach days I’ve ever had. Cayo Icacos is a must if you’re in Puerto Rico. 10/10 experience!"
HolySocom
"Favorite beach 🏝️ i have visited so far! 🩵 The water is warm and calm, the island is so relaxing and easy to get to. It gives you a feeling that you have the island for yourself. Truly a paradise 🫶🏼"
Valeria Orihuela
"Beautiful Cristal water, very beautiful and clean. Outstanding experience, would recommend to have a tour guide/captain to take you there. IN LOVEEE"
Luloski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To get to Cayo Icacos from San Juan, you'll typically drive about an hour east to Fajardo. From Fajardo, you'll need to take a boat. Options include booking a day trip via catamaran or chartering a private boat. Some tours offer transportation from San Juan to Fajardo. +1
The primary way to reach Cayo Icacos is by boat. Popular options include catamaran tours, private boat charters, and water taxis departing from Fajardo. Some tours may offer pick-up services from San Juan. +3
No, there is no public transportation directly to Cayo Icacos as it is an uninhabited island. You must arrange boat transportation from the mainland, typically from Fajardo.
The boat ride from Fajardo to Cayo Icacos usually takes between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions.
If you have your own boat or rent one, you can navigate to Cayo Icacos. However, be aware of shallow areas and anchoring regulations. Many visitors prefer organized tours for ease and safety.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need to buy entry tickets for Cayo Icacos itself, as it's an uninhabited island. However, you will need to pay for boat transportation to get there, whether it's a tour, charter, or water taxi.
Day trip costs can vary significantly. A catamaran tour might range from $100-$200 per person and often includes transportation, snorkeling gear, food, and drinks. Private charters will be more expensive. +2
There are no official entrance fees for Cayo Icacos. The costs are associated with the boat transportation and any services provided by tour operators.
Most day tours to Cayo Icacos operate from morning to late afternoon, typically around 5-6 hours. It's best to check with your specific tour operator for exact timings. +1
Yes, many tour operators and charter companies allow you to book your Cayo Icacos trip online through their websites or booking platforms.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
At Cayo Icacos, you can enjoy swimming in the clear waters, relaxing on the white-sand beaches, snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring the natural beauty. Some tours also offer paddleboarding or kayaking.
Yes, Cayo Icacos is known for its good snorkeling opportunities. You can often see colorful fish and marine life near the shore or at designated reef spots visited by tours.
No, Cayo Icacos is an uninhabited island, meaning there are no vendors, restaurants, restrooms, or other facilities. You must bring everything you need.
Many visitors bring drones to capture aerial footage of the stunning island. However, always check current local regulations regarding drone usage in Puerto Rico and protected areas.
Cayo Icacos is generally suitable for families, especially if you go with a tour that caters to them. The calm, shallow waters are great for children to play in. Remember to pack accordingly for kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no vendors or food services on Cayo Icacos. You need to bring all your own food and drinks.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, sandwiches, and any other food items you'd like. A cooler with ice is essential to keep everything fresh.
Many catamaran tours and private charters include a light meal and drinks as part of their package. It's advisable to confirm this when booking your tour.
Absolutely! Cayo Icacos is the perfect place for a picnic. Just be sure to pack out everything you pack in to keep the island pristine.
There are no restaurants on Cayo Icacos. You'll find dining options back on the mainland in Fajardo after your boat trip.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire island is a photo opportunity! Focus on the contrast between the white sand and turquoise water, the palm trees, and the expansive ocean views. Drone shots offer a unique perspective.
Yes, Cayo Icacos is fantastic for drone photography due to its open spaces and stunning aerial views of the coastline and clear waters. Remember to check local regulations.
Morning light offers softer shadows and vibrant colors. Midday sun can be harsh but also creates beautiful, bright, tropical scenes. Late afternoon provides golden hour light.
While possible, it's best to confirm with your tour operator or charter company, as some may have restrictions or require special arrangements for professional photoshoots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for water activities. A drone can provide incredible aerial shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack extra snacks, drinks, and sun protection for the little ones. Bringing sand toys can also enhance their enjoyment of the soft white sand. Opting for a tour that includes lunch can simplify logistics, allowing you to focus on making memories with your family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider traveling with a group to split the cost of a private charter, which can sometimes be economical per person. The key to saving money is to pack your own food and drinks instead of relying on tour inclusions, and to compare prices across different tour operators before booking.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking a private boat charter for an intimate experience. You can arrange for a sunset cruise back to Fajardo, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the island together. The natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for couples seeking relaxation and romance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Cayo Icacos: Your Boat Adventure
Several boat options are available. Catamaran tours are popular for groups, often including amenities like snorkeling gear, food, and drinks, making for a hassle-free day. Private boat charters offer more flexibility and exclusivity, ideal for special occasions or larger groups. For a quicker trip, water taxis are also an option, providing direct transport from Fajardo to the island.
When booking, consider what's included. Some tours provide snorkeling equipment, lunch, and beverages, while others might be more basic. It's crucial to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and get the best rates.
What to Pack for Your Cayo Icacos Day Trip
Essentials include: plenty of water to stay hydrated, food (sandwiches, snacks, fruit), and a cooler with ice to keep everything fresh. Don't forget sunscreen (high SPF), hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Caribbean sun. Beach towels, beach chairs, and umbrellas are also highly recommended for comfort.
Consider bringing water shoes if you plan on exploring rocky areas, and a waterproof bag or case for your phone and camera to protect them from the elements. If you're interested in capturing the island's beauty from above, a drone can provide spectacular aerial shots, but be sure to check local regulations beforehand.
Experiencing the Marine Life of Cayo Icacos
Many boat tours include snorkeling gear and will take you to prime reef locations. Here, you can expect to see a variety of colorful tropical fish, coral formations, and other fascinating marine creatures. The water clarity is often exceptional, providing excellent visibility for underwater exploration.
Beyond snorkeling, visitors often report sightings of dolphins playing in the waters around Cayo Icacos. These majestic creatures can sometimes be seen from the boat or even from the shore, adding an unforgettable element to the island experience.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit