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Planning a trip to Fajardo, Puerto Rico? You’ve found the right blog!
We’ve explored the best of Fajardo, from its stunning beaches to the incredible natural wonders just offshore. Now, we’re here to help you make the most of your adventure with our guide to the top things to do.
In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know about the most exciting activities Fajardo has to offer. Whether you want to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Icacos Island, hike through El Yunque Rainforest, or kayak through a lagoon glowing with bioluminescent plankton, we’ve got you covered!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Fajardo was this El Yunque Rainforest tour! It includes hiking, swimming at two waterfalls, and spotting wildlife.
This is a tough place to explore on your own, so we were SO glad we booked this tour!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
- 1. Go on an all-inclusive snorkel tour to Icacos Island
- 2. Go swimming and hiking in El Yunque Rainforest
- 3. Kayak with bioluminescent plankton
- 4. Snorkel with sea turtles at Culebra Island
- 5. Drive your own mini boat to La Cordillera Cays Nature Reserve
- 6. Go scuba diving
- 7. Visit Vieques Island on a snorkeling excursion
- Where to Stay in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the Caribbean
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
1. Go on an all-inclusive snorkel tour to Icacos Island
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 7 am or 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Scenic boat ride, amazing snorkeling at Icacos Island, expert guides, buffet lunch and open bar
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), boat ride, use of snorkeling equipment, flotation belts, local guides, free parking and showers at the marina, lunch, local rum, bottled water, soft drinks
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 2,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This all-inclusive snorkeling tour to Icacos Island is the ultimate way to experience the natural beauty of Puerto Rico! We took a beautiful 35-minute boat ride from Fajardo out to Icacos, and then once we got there we had a blast exploring the vibrant marine life.
The waters of Icacos Island are super clear and calm, so there’s no need to worry if you’ve never snorkeled before. There were also flotation belts available for the less confident swimmers in the group, so there’s no need to worry if you’re not exactly Michael Phelps.
Once underwater, we saw parrotfish, snappers, and even a sea turtle as we explored. Meanwhile our guide, Veronica, was on hand to make sure we didn’t miss any interesting creatures.
After snorkeling, we got a deli-style buffet lunch and the open bar began. We were free to enjoy as much Puerto Rican rum as we liked, and there were plenty of soft drinks available, too. The bartender kept making us laugh as he mixed us rum cocktails!
This tour was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Puerto Rico. And we’re clearly not the only ones who loved it – you can read over 1,000 glowing reviews here!
Just be aware that it usually sells out, so be sure to book it in advance – and if you need hotel pickup, choose the “tour and transport” option.
Grab your spot on this tour here, before it sells out!
2. Go swimming and hiking in El Yunque Rainforest
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 8:30 am, 10:30 am, or 1 pm
- Highlights: Hiking in El Yunque rainforest, visiting two waterfalls, rope swing, rock slide, cliff jumping, spotting wildlife
- Inclusions: Parking, local guide, life jacket, all activities, all fees and taxes
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 6,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you only do one thing in Fajardo, make it this guided tour of El Yunque rainforest! This is hands down our top pick for things to do here because it has everything: lush scenery, beautiful waterfalls, and knowledgeable guides who helped us navigate the rainforest like pros.
After meeting in Fajardo, we followed our guides, Anthony and Jesus, through the jungle on a hiking tour, learning about the rainforest’s incredible biodiversity as we went. We spotted coqui frogs along the way, as well as lots of unique plants and flowers.
The first waterfall stop was a gorgeous swimming hole, where we had fun taking turns on the rope swing and free diving from different heights. I worked up the courage to take the plunge, and it was such a rush!
After cooling off, we hiked for another 15 minutes until we reached a second waterfall with a natural slide into the river. Our guides made sure that everyone stayed safe and offered tips on the best spots to jump into the water.
El Yunque can be tough to explore alone, but this tour made it so easy for us. Anthony and Jesus knew all the right places to go and ensured we experienced the best of the rainforest’s magic.
Book our favorite tour in Fajardo here!
3. Kayak with bioluminescent plankton
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Departures between 5:45 pm – 8:30 pm
- Highlights: Kayaking through the Red Mangrove Forest, seeing the bioluminescent plankton at Laguna Grande, learning about the phenomenon of bioluminescence
- Inclusions: Tandem kayak, backrests, safety equipment, eco-friendly insect repellent, light snacks and refreshments, low-intensity navigation lights, local guide
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This kayaking tour through the bioluminescent waters of Laguna Grande was one of the most magical experiences we’ve ever had. If you’re visiting Fajardo, it’s a must-do because there’s nothing quite like watching the water light up with every stroke of your paddle.
We’re clearly not the only ones who were blown away by this tour either – read over a thousand 5-star reviews here!
The adventure began in Las Croabas where, after a quick safety briefing, we climbed into our tandem kayak and set off into the mangrove channels. Paddling through these waterways at night was an experience in itself. They were calm, eerie, and beautiful! Along the way, our guides, Miguel, Francisco, and Brian taught us about the delicate ecosystem and pointed out constellations in the night sky.
Things only got better when we reached Laguna Grande. I couldn’t believe how the water glowed blue-green with every movement! We even saw fish light up like shooting stars as they darted around near our kayak. It was an incredible spectacle.
Since this tour uses tandem kayaks, the paddling is easy, and the guides are always on hand to help. Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced kayaker, you should not miss this chance to see this nighttime phenomenon while you’re in Fajardo.
Book this tour here, while spots are still available!
4. Snorkel with sea turtles at Culebra Island
- Duration: 12 hours
- Time: Leaves between 7:30 am – 9 am
- Highlights: Visiting Culebra Island, mini-bus island tour, snorkeling in the Luis Peña Marine Reserve, swimming with sea turtles, relaxing on Flamenco Beach
- Inclusions: Round trip ferry tickets to Culebra, ground transportation on Culebra, snorkeling gear, floatation belt, interpretive snorkeling session, local guides, soft drinks and snacks
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a dreamy adventure in paradise, then we think that this Culebra Island snorkel and turtle tour is the perfect choice! It’s a full-day adventure that perfectly combines breathtaking scenery, amazing wildlife, and a chance to relax on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
We caught the ferry from Ceiba with the help of our guides and then hopped in a minibus for a guided tour of Culebra as soon as we arrived. We saw gorgeous beaches and got acquainted with the island before heading to Luis Peña Marine Reserve to snorkel with turtles.
Honestly, it was some of the best snorkeling we have ever done! Beneath the crystal-clear waters, we explored vibrant coral reefs, saw tons of tropical fish, stingrays, and swam with sea turtles. Gliding alongside them was pure magic, and the guides were fantastic at helping us spot as many marine species as possible.
We didn’t want the snorkeling to end, but the blow was softened by the fact that we got to hang out on Flamenco Beach afterward. It’s a bucket list-worthy beach with pristine white sand and bright blue water, and we had time to grab some lunch from local vendors and relax in the sun.
This tour showcases some of the best scenery and marine life that Puerto Rico has to offer, so don’t miss it while you’re in Fajardo. It usually sells out ahead of time, so be sure to grab your spot ASAP.
Read all of the 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. Drive your own mini boat to La Cordillera Cays Nature Reserve
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 8:30 am or 1 pm
- Highlights: Driving your own mini speedboat, exploring La Cordillera Cays Nature Reserve, snorkeling amongst tropical fish, relaxing on white sand beaches
- Inclusions: Use of mini speedboat, iced cooler with snacks and refreshments, snorkeling gear, life jacket, local guides
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you think that driving your own mini speed boat through La Cordillera Cays Nature Reserve sounds epic, then you’re absolutely right! We loved this adrenaline-packed tour because it delivered excitement, stunning scenery, and amazing snorkeling in spades.
We met our guides at Marina Puerto Chico for a lesson on how to drive our mini speedboat and then we hit the water. Driving the boat was such a thrill. Honestly, nothing beats speeding across the turquoise waters of La Cordillera Cays with the sun on your face and the breeze in your hair. We felt like we were in a movie!
Our first stop was a fantastic snorkeling spot, where we jumped into the water to see the colorful fish and coral. Better still, we even spotted a sea turtle swimming past! The guides were wonderful, and pointed out lots of different creatures so that we didn’t miss anything.
After snorkeling, we cruised to a secluded white sand beach where we had time to relax, enjoy some snacks, and take in the breathtaking views. It was absolutely perfect!
Driving our own boat made this tour feel even more special. Our guides were on hand to make sure that we had a smooth and safe experience, but we still had the freedom to explore as we liked. It really felt more like a private island-hopping adventure. Trust us, you won’t regret booking this tour!
Check availability and reserve this tour here!
Related Read: If your travels are taking you to other areas of the island, have a look at our Puerto Rico bucket list of the best activities!
6. Go scuba diving
- Duration: 5.5 hours
- Time: 7:45 am
- Highlights: Scuba diving reefs around small coral atoll islands, six sites to choose from, seeing rays and turtles, great visibility
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), PADI divemaster, two oxygen tanks, use of scuba equipment, drinks, snacks
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 180+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
As keen divers, we just had to book this scuba diving tour while we were in Fajardo, and it proved to be one of the best things that we did! You do need to be a certified diver in order to do this tour, but it doesn’t matter whether you’re super experienced or are returning to the water after some time off.
The day began with check-in and a briefing from our dive master, Samuel, who provided great insights into the dive sites and the conditions for the day. The boat ride to the first site was super scenic, with beautiful views of Fajardo’s coastline, and the crew made sure that everyone was comfortable.
Our first dive took us to a gorgeous coral reef, where we descended to about 60 feet (18 meters). The visibility was fantastic, and we saw colorful fish, stingrays, and even a few sea turtles. Samuel was great at pointing out hidden marine life, too, such as lobsters and camouflaged crabs.
The second dive was a shallower reef that featured impressive coral formations and sand channels. We were even lucky enough to spot a nurse shark resting beneath a ledge, which was the highlight of the day for me.
Overall, this was an incredible dive experience. The crew was fantastic, and we were super happy with how much marine life we got to see. We will definitely book this tour again the next time we’re in Fajardo!
Book this award-winning scuba diving tour here, with FREE cancellation!
7. Visit Vieques Island on a snorkeling excursion
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 8 am or 1 pm
- Highlights: Snorkeling around Vieques Island, spotting giant sea turtles, discovering the beautiful reefs, pristine beaches and coastal scenery
- Inclusions: Boat transport, use of snorkeling equipment, marine biologist guide, commentary, licensed captain, snacks, soft and alcoholic drinks
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 750+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for an amazing snorkeling experience, don’t miss out on this top-rated tour to Vieques Island! It was well-organized, fun, and filled with breathtaking marine life. And we’re not the only ones who think so – you can read hundreds of 5-star reviews here!
At Ceiba, we hopped on board a comfortable boat for the ride to Vieques Island, which is one of Puerto Rico’s best snorkeling spots. The water was unbelievably clear, and the reef was full of life.
We saw schools of colorful fish, beautiful coral formations, and even a few sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water. Our guides, Freddy and Juan, were fantastic and shared lots of interesting facts about the ecosystem with us, which made the experience even better.
After our first snorkeling session, we enjoyed some drinks, wraps, and fruit snacks on board before heading to another prime spot. During our second session, we saw yet more tropical fish and even a stingray, which was so exciting!
This was an amazing experience, and we think it’s a must for anyone who isn’t a certified diver. The waters are calm and the snorkeling is easy, so this is a great choice for families or anyone looking for a fun and relaxed day out. It was easily one of the best experiences of our trip!
Find out more and book your spot on this snorkeling tour here!
Where to Stay in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
Now that you’ve got your Fajardo itinerary sorted, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Whether you’re here to explore the stunning beaches, take a boat trip to nearby islands, or experience the famous Bioluminescent Bay, staying in the right spot will make your trip even better. To help you out, I’ve rounded up the best accommodations in Fajardo and nearby for every budget!
Luxury – $$$
El Conquistador Resort is a top pick for a luxury stay in Fajardo. This stunning resort is perched on a cliff with breathtaking ocean views and offers access to a private island, Palomino Island. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, a golf course, a full-service spa, and a water park. With several on-site restaurants and a prime location for exploring nearby beaches and activities, it’s the perfect spot for an upscale Puerto Rican getaway!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start around $500 USD per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Suenos del Mar is a great mid-range option in Fajardo, offering spacious apartment-style accommodations with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Each unit includes a fully equipped kitchen, making it easy to prepare meals and private balconies with ocean views. Located just steps from the marina, it’s an ideal base for exploring Fajardo!
Prices are usually around $190 USD for a 2-bedroom apartment. You can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Casa Coral is a fantastic budget-friendly stay in Luquillo, just a short 10-minute drive from Fajardo. This laid-back, eco-friendly guesthouse offers both private rooms and dorms, all with air conditioning. It has a welcoming atmosphere, communal kitchen, and outdoor lounge area. Plus, it’s just steps from the beach, making it a great spot for relaxing or catching some waves!
Private rooms usually start at around $120 USD per night and dorm beds are around $50 USD. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Fajrdo here!
Renting a Car in the Caribbean
Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!
We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean
- Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
- Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
- Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
- Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
- Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
- An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
That’s our full guide on all the best things to do in Fajardo! I know you’ll have a blast exploring this part of Puerto Rico. It has so many amazing adventures that your vacation is sure to be one to remember.
If more tropical getaways are in your future, have a look through all our blogs on the Caribbean! Or I picked out a few popular ones below for nearby destinations that might come in handy.
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