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
Private Full-Day Icacos & Palomino Boat Charter in Fajardo
Guided reef snorkeling, beach time, lunch and drinks on a 27-foot charter
82' Yacht Charter in Fajardo
Private island cruising with sun decks, a wet bar, and snorkeling gear
Private Icacos & Palomino Snorkel Boat Tour from Fajardo
Private island beach time with snorkeling and onboard refreshments
4-Hour Fajardo Island Snorkeling Charter
Explore reefs, beaches, and island waters on a private Fajardo charter
Fajardo Snorkel Tour to Palomino or Cayo Icacos
Combine island snorkeling with beach time, lunch, and rum punch
Private Catamaran Island Snorkeling Trip in Fajardo
Mix island beach time and snorkeling with your own Coast Guard-certified captain
Full-Day Private Boat Tour of Fajardo Keys
Explore Fajardo’s local keys by private boat, with time to swim, snorkel, and unwind
Culebra Powerboat Snorkel & Beach Tour from Fajardo
Ride a high-speed powerboat to snorkel reefs and relax on Culebra beaches
Sunset Boat Cruise in Fajardo
Private sunset sailing with music, snacks, and coastal views
4-Hour Fajardo Boat Charter
Private beach day exploring Icacos, Palomino & Palominito
5-Hour Fajardo Island Catamaran Cruise
Snorkel and float around Icacos or Palomino with lunch included
Private Full-Day Icacos & Palomino Boat Tour From Fajardo
Swim, explore island shores, and unwind on your own private boat
Full-Day Private Icacos & Palomino Charter from Fajardo
Spend the day snorkeling Tortuga Reef and relaxing at Icacos and Palomino
Fajardo Private Yacht Charter
Cruise to Icacos, Palomino, or Culebra aboard a private Sea Ray
Private Half-Day Sailing & Snorkeling Charter in Fajardo
Private Caribbean sailing, snorkeling, and beach time aboard a restored yacht
Private Snorkel Cruise in Ceiba
Island-hop, snorkel, and relax aboard a private 36-foot catamaran
Palomino Island Snorkel & Beach Boat Charter from Fajardo
Trade the mainland for turquoise water and white-sand shores
Private Icacos & Palomino Snorkel Boat Charter in Fajardo
Swim, snorkel, and lounge on a private island-hopping escape
Morning Reef Snorkeling & Beach Trip from Fajardo
Snorkel coral reefs and relax on an island beach off Fajardo
Fajardo 4-Hour Snorkeling & Beach Cruise
Snorkel Cordillera Cays reefs and relax at an island beach
Private Half-Day Island Snorkeling Charter in Fajardo
Guided reef snorkeling and beach time along Puerto Rico's eastern coast
Private Full-Day Icacos & Palomino Boat Tour from Fajardo
Make the eastern keys your private beach-day escape
Private Half-Day Catamaran Island & Snorkel Tour in Fajardo
Explore Icacos and/or Palomino with lunch, drinks, and snorkel gear
Full-Day Culebrita Snorkel Boat Charter from Fajardo
A full day of guided snorkeling, beach time, lunch and drinks