The main island of Puerto Rico is jam-packed with attractions, but the many smaller islands and cays in the archipelago have unique charms. The smaller islands around Puerto Rico are where you'll find the most breathtaking bioluminescent bays, exquisite beaches, and rare fauna during your vacation to the Enchanted Isle. Everything you need to know about visiting the smaller islands is included in this book, from the more well-known Culebra and Vieques to the hidden gems of Caja de Muertos and La Parguera.

Culebra

Culebra is one of the most visited islands in the archipelago due to its dazzling coral reef and powdery white sand beaches. The island lies a short distance from Fajardo's shores, and the surrounding cays are home to a rich marine ecosystem that includes sea turtles.

Activities on Culebra

The barrier reefs off Playa Tamarindo are Culebra's top snorkeling and scuba diving destinations. The Culebra National Wildlife Refuge and the Luis Pea Channel Natural Reserve are nearby.

Flamenco Beach, located on the island of Culebra, is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world. Isla Culebrita, home to the well-known Playa Tortuga and the strikingly beautiful lighthouse that overlooks it, is easily accessible by boat.

The best way to see everything Culebra offers is on a guided tour. Everything from getting there to relaxing on the beach is taken care of so you can spend the day snorkeling and relax in this tiny paradise.

Locations of Potential Restaurants

The Dinghy Dock serves Caribbean and American meals, Zaco's Tacos serves great Mexican food, Heather's serves warm Italian food, and El Eden has fresh seafood. However, many island trips also include a dinner or a visit to a local restaurant. There are a variety of Puerto Rico culinary tours available if you have a certain cuisine in mind.

Vieques

Iconic for its stunning bioluminescent bay, beautiful beaches, and thriving animal sanctuary, Vieques is about 6 miles off the main island's east coast. Vieques is a perfect place to spend a day of leisurely exploration thanks to its warm tropical atmosphere and plenty of natural attractions. There are two ways to get to the island: by boat or a tiny plane.

Attractions and Activities on Vieques

A place like Vieques would be heaven for everyone who enjoys the great outdoors. Mosquito Bay, home to the world record for brightest bioluminescent bay, is the island's most popular tourist destination.

Guests visiting the island may witness a unique light show because of the high concentration of dinoflagellates in the water and the lack of artificial light pollution. Beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and salt flats may be found inside the boundaries of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, which covers the majority of the island.

In addition to hiking the island's pathways, you may also explore the region by paddling a kayak, scuba diving, or even riding a horse. Sun Bay and Playa Negra are great options for a beach day, with beautiful scenery and lots of sunshine.

Caja de Muertos

Coffin Island, also known as Caja de Muertos, is located in the southern part of Puerto Rico, not far from Ponce. It gets its name because of its spooky form, like a coffin. Nonetheless, there is a lot of life on the island. This natural reserve is a great place to see a wide range of flora and animals, including several species of turtles. Private boats or charters are necessary to access this island.

Caja de Muertos Traditions

Caja de Muertos is a popular summer getaway for San Juan locals, who relax on the deserted (largely empty) beaches. You've found the right spot if you're hoping to unwind on a beautiful beach. Playa Pelicano is the most frequented beach because of its Blue Flag status and calm, swimmable waves.

Playa Blanca and Playa Ensenadita are two other beaches in the area. Playa Larga is home to a fascinating undersea route that divers may explore on a scuba diving tour. Hiking up to the lighthouse is a fun way to get your blood pumping.

Visitors come from far and wide to observe the many types of birds that nest in this protected region, such as the boba Prieta.

The pelicans that frequent Playa Pelicano is responsible for the beach's moniker. Since nobody lives in Caja de Muertos, you must bring food and drink if you intend to spend the day there.