Cayo Icacos, Puerto Rico, is a popular weekend destination with locals and tourists alike. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure. Its mangroves, clear waters, and bountiful marine life make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
This cay is located one and a half miles off Puerto Rico’s east coast, making for a perfect day trip from San Juan or Fajardo. Interested in moving to Puerto Rico? The Colectivo Group is a boutique real estate agency with local experts who will help you find the best property near this amazing destination. Let’s discuss what you should know about Icacos Island:
What to Know About Cayo Icacos
Geography
Cayo Icacos (also called Isla Icacos or Icacos Island) is the largest and most beautiful among the cays (tiny islands) forming the La Cordillera Nature Reserve off Puerto Rico’s northeast tip. Isla Icacos is approximately two miles long and half a mile wide, with white sand beaches, pristine waters, and stunning reefs.
This is an uninhabited island, and no camping is allowed. So you’ll need to start your day trip early. A boat ride is the only way to reach it, and most vessels anchor a few yards from Icacos’ main beach. Many local boat owners drop anchor here to enjoy the scenic views and beautiful waters.
Climate and Best Times to Visit
Icacos Island has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The hottest months are July and August, and the coolest are January and February. The rainy season runs from May to November, so expect late afternoon showers.
Isla Icacos is a popular weekend destination, and its natural, unspoiled beach is perfect for lounging, swimming, snorkeling, and more. If you prefer having the beach to yourself, visit on a weekday. The best months for a day trip to Isla Icacos are from May to August.
Do you want to move to this area? Learn more about Fajardo real estate.
Ways to Access Icacos Island
You can only get here by boat, a 40-minute ride from Fajardo. Here are the details on how to access Cayo Icacos:
Water Taxi
Once you get to the Fajardo neighborhood of Las Croabas, you can board a water taxi to Cayo Icacos. Many taxi operators are on site, charging from $50 to $60 per trip. Each small boat can accommodate a maximum of 12 persons. The last boat returns at 4 PM to get everyone off the island by sunset.
You can board a water taxi without a reservation. However, some providers require booking. Do your research and always bring cash to Las Croabas, since the water taxis don’t accept credit cards.
Catamaran Boat Charter
A fun way to get to Cayo Icacos is via a catamaran (which is more expensive than a water taxi). These charters provide snorkeling gear, food, and refreshments, so you only need to bring your sunscreen, towel, and waterproof camera to capture the memories.
Most catamaran tours depart from Villa Marina or Marina Puerto del Rey, south of Las Croabas. They leave the port at 9 AM and return at about 3 PM. Most hotels and guest houses nearby offer transportation to and from these ports, so you can easily plan a day trip.
Explore homes for sale on Puerto Rico’s East Coast.
Things to Do in Cayo Icacos, Puerto Rico
Here are some of the fun things to do:
Icacos Island: Snorkeling and Diving
The island’s clear, turquoise water is home to diverse marine life, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Snorkelers of all skill levels can participate as the water is calm. If you are a certified diver, Cayo Icacos offers many adventures. Visit the best diving spots to explore coral reefs, turtles, colorful fish, and other marine species.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The cool, calm, crystalline waters make paddleboarding and kayaking enjoyable. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to experience the scenic beauty up close.
Icacos Beach Activities
Icacos Island is your ideal beach vacation destination. The calm, shallow waters are family-friendly, so children can play on the beach and swim near the shore. Sunbathe, swim, have a picnic, or do anything you please. However, make sure to bring everything you need (food, drinks, sun protection, change of clothes, etc.) to make the most of your beach day.
Hiking in Isla Icacos
Walk along the many trails amidst the rich, tropical vegetation. Let the paths lead you to discover the coves, waterfalls, and other natural wonders.
Watching Wildlife
Since the island is part of the La Cordillera Nature Reserve, it offers diverse wildlife. We recommend taking a guided tour to see all the birds, iguanas, monkeys, and more.
Island Fishing
You can also fish while on Isla Icacos. Book a local fishing charter and you’ll have all the necessary gear and equipment to fish in tranquility.
Also, check out our tips for moving to San Juan.
What to Bring to Isla Icacos
Here’s what you should bring on your visit to Icacos Island:
- Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, beach umbrellas, etc.)
- Water, food, snacks, and drinks
- Towels, swimsuits, and cover-ups
- Light, comfortable clothing
- A light jacket or sweater for cool evenings
- Gear for your activities (hiking, snorkeling, diving, swimming, fishing, etc.)
- Reading materials (books, magazines, etc.)
Other Considerations
Please bear in mind the following tips:
- While on the water taxi or catamaran, obey all the safety instructions.
- There are no lifeguards on duty at Icacos Beach, so swim with safety gear and in groups.
- Icacos Island is part of a nature reserve, so support the conservation efforts as you go about your activities.
Visit Icacos, Puerto Rico!
Icacos Island is a laid-back, rejuvenation destination in the heart of nature. If you want to move to Puerto Rico’s east coast, choosing a real estate agent is an important aspect of your relocation.
The Colectivo Group is your premium real estate agency. Our agents are based in Puerto Rico and have detailed knowledge of all communities. We will help you find the right property for your lifestyle and family’s needs. Let’s start discussing your move to paradise: