Things to do nearIsla Palominos
Isla Palominos is an unspoiled island off Fajardo, Puerto Rico, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and secluded white-sand beaches.
Isla Palominos sits within the string of small cays scattered across the waters east of Fajardo, a region long regarded as Puerto Rico's gateway to the Caribbean Sea. The island has historically been part of the Las Croabas area, a fishing community whose traditions of working these coastal waters stretch back generations.
Above the waterline, shaded palm groves and low coastal scrub frame a beach that stays remarkably calm thanks to natural reef protection. Snorkeling here puts you face to face with parrotfish, sergeant majors, and the occasional sea turtle drifting through staghorn coral. Visitors who prefer to stay dry can walk the shoreline, watch pelicans dive beyond the breakers, or simply settle into the shade.
Boat tours departing from Fajardo regularly include Isla Palominos on their routes, often pairing it with a visit to Cayo Icacos, another beloved cay a short distance away. The broader region also draws visitors heading inland to El Yunque National Forest, making Fajardo a natural base for both sea and rainforest adventures.
Isla Palominos offers the rare combination of easy accessibility and genuine seclusion, making it one of eastern Puerto Rico's most rewarding day-trip destinations.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Isla Palominos
Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy the beach before day-trippers arrive and the anchorage fills with boats.
Bring water shoes, as the entry points near the reef can have scattered rocks and sea urchins close to shore.
Pack your own snacks and plenty of water, since food and drink options on the island are limited.
Try snorkeling along the eastern edge of the island, where coral formations and tropical fish are most abundant.
Combine your trip with a stop at nearby Cayo Icacos for a full day exploring the islands off Fajardo.
Top tours & experiences near Isla Palominos
Fajardo Kayak & Paddleboard Rental
Explore Palomino Island waters by kayak or paddle board
Night Snorkeling Cruise to Palomino Island
See Puerto Rico's reef life after dark with lights, snacks, and a private boat
Private Palomino Island Snorkeling Charter
Private guided snorkeling and beach time off Puerto Rico’s east coast
Fajardo Sunset Cruise to Palomino Island
A private evening on the water with sunset views, swimming, and snacks
Fajardo Private Catamaran Charter to Icacos or Palomino
Sail privately to Icacos or Palomino with snorkeling, food, and drinks included
Private Icacos Sailing Charter
Sail to Icacos for beach time, reef snorkeling, lunch and tropical drinks
Fajardo Morning Snorkeling & Beach Tour
Snorkel coral reefs and relax on an island beach with snacks and drinks included
Vieques Full-Day Guided Snorkeling Charter
Spend a catered beach day snorkeling off Vieques
Full-Day Culebrita Snorkeling Charter From Fajardo
Snorkel, relax, and enjoy lunch on a full-day Culebrita escape
Full-Day Icacos & Palomino Charter
Guided reef snorkeling, beach time, lunch and drinks on a 27-foot charter
Snorkeling Charter to Icacos & Palomino
Spend the day snorkeling Tortuga Reef and relaxing at Icacos and Palomino
Fajardo Bay Snorkeling Boat Charter
Cruise Fajardo Bay with optional snorkeling, beach time, and onboard snacks
Fajardo BBQ Island Charter
Cruise Fajardo Bay with optional snorkeling, island stops and a BBQ meal
4-Hour Sailing & Snorkeling Charter in Fajardo
Private Caribbean sailing, snorkeling, and beach time aboard a restored yacht
6-Hour Fajardo Sailing & Snorkeling Charter
Private Caribbean sailing with snorkeling, beach time, and onboard refreshments
Afternoon Snorkeling Tour in Fajardo
Explore colorful reefs and island waters on an afternoon boat snorkel
Full-Day Culebrita Snorkeling Charter
A full day of guided snorkeling, beach time, lunch and drinks
Full-Day Vieques Snorkeling Charter
Explore Vieques by boat with guided snorkeling, lunch, drinks, and beach time
Culebra Guided Snorkeling Charter
Explore Culebra’s reefs and beaches with guided snorkeling, lunch, and drinks included
Private Snorkel Cruise in Ceiba
Island-hop, snorkel, and relax aboard a private 36-foot catamaran
Private Snorkeling Charter to Icacos & Palomino
Guided reef snorkeling with private island stops
6-Hour Fishing & Snorkeling Charter in Fajardo
Private fishing and island snorkeling with your catch to keep
Culebra Guided Snorkeling Charter
Spend a day snorkeling Luis Peña Natural Reserve and relaxing on Culebra’s beaches
Private Boat Charter From Fajardo
Snorkel and swim around Icacos or Palomino on a private charter
Private Snorkeling Charter in Fajardo
Swim, snorkel, and beachcomb on a private Puerto Rico catamaran
Fajardo Catamaran Snorkeling Charter
Sail Fajardo Bay to Playa Tortuga and Icacos Beach with optional snorkeling
82' Yacht Charter in Fajardo
Private island cruising with sun decks, a wet bar, and snorkeling gear
5-Hour Fajardo Island Catamaran Cruise
Snorkel and float around Icacos or Palomino with lunch included
Island Catamaran Cruise in Fajardo
Explore Icacos and/or Palomino with lunch, drinks, and snorkel gear
Fajardo Snorkeling Charter
Private island beach time with snorkeling and onboard refreshments
Fajardo Private Snorkeling Cruise
A private beach day across Icacos, Palomino, and Palominito