SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING IN PUERTO RICO

Just a short 20–30 minute boat ride from Fajardo, Cayo Diablo (also known as Turtle Town) is a spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving destination nestled in Puerto Rico’s La Cordillera Reef Nature Reserve.

Depths range from shallow 5 feet for snorkelers to about 45 feet for divers, making it perfect for beginners up through intermediate certified divers. The site is well‑known for its calm, controlled currents that gently guide you across underwater landscapes teeming with healthy coral, occasional rays and barracuda, and friendly sea turtles that appear unbothered by your presence. With visibility often between 25–30 feet or more, Cayo Diablo delivers an enchanting and accessible underwater experience for both snorkelers and divers alike.

Just off the west coast of Culebra lies Luis Peña, a protected nature reserve accessed by boat. With depths gently sloping from shallow snorkeling zones near shore to around 15–20 feet further out, it’s ideal for both snorkelers and open-water certified divers seeking a tranquil, uncrowded underwater haven.

Beneath the clear Caribbean surface, you’ll encounter sea turtles gliding among seagrass beds, vibrant coral formations, vibrant reef fish like parrotfish and angelfish, and occasional stingrays in quieter sections of the reef. The calm currents and protected status of the marine reserve help maintain excellent visibility and rich biodiversity — a serene yet captivating experience for explorers of all levels. Whether you're snorkeling in the shallows or diving a bit deeper, Luis Peña offers a pristine glimpse into Puerto Rico’s natural marine beauty.

Situated just off the iconic Flamenco Beach on Culebra, Carlos Rosario Reef is a prime spot for both snorkeling and scuba diving, known for its vibrant coral gardens and thriving marine life. Depths range from shallow 15–20 feet near the reef top to around 40 feet at deeper sections, making it an ideal site for snorkelers and beginner to intermediate divers.

Under clear, turquoise waters with frequently excellent visibility, you’ll glide over lush coral, sea fans, and brain coral while spotting parrotfish, angelfish, and even sea turtles . Advanced divers can explore deeper swim-throughs and overhangs—like the nearby Geniqui Caves—for a touch of adventure. With calm currents and plentiful marine life, Carlos Rosario offers a memorable and accessible Caribbean dive experience for all skill levels.

Just a short boat ride off Fajardo, the Sargent Major Reef near Palomino Island offers a serene snorkeling and diving refuge within the protected La Cordillera Nature Reserve. Depths gently slope from shallow 5–10 ft for snorkelers to around 20 ft for divers, making it ideal for beginners and families looking for an easy, stress-free experience.

Under the crystal-clear waters, expect to see vibrant schools of sergeant major fish, yellowtail snappers, lobsters, and dolphins passing through . The reef is calm and sheltered, providing excellent visibility and a chance to observe reef life up close—perfect for gently drifting along with colorful marine life in a relaxed setting. With no strong currents and consistently calm seas, this site is a favorite for novice divers and first-time snorkelers alike.

Located off the coast of Palomino Island, the Sand Slide Reef is a captivating scuba and snorkeling site made famous by the flowing sandy slopes that descend gracefully into the reef edge. The site starts at about 15 ft and slopes down to approximately 80 ft, making it suitable for everyone from confident snorkelers and beginners (snorkeling shallows) to intermediate and advanced certified divers (deeper sections).

Swim over sandy plains, glide along reef walls, and keep your eyes peeled for turtles, reef fish, and even the occasional nurse sharks. Thanks to its varied topography and gentle currents, Sand Slide offers a dynamic underwater adventure with excellent visibility—often 60 to 100 ft—perfect for exploring at your own pace.

Regularly ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, Flamenco Beach on the island of Culebra is a true Caribbean gem. With its soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and gently rolling waves, it’s the perfect setting for sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply relaxing under the palm trees. The beach stretches in a long, graceful crescent, offering plenty of space for picnics, beach games, and scenic walks along the shore.

Surrounded by green hills and framed by iconic rusting tanks left from military training days, Flamenco Beach is as rich in history as it is in natural beauty. Whether you're looking to unwind with family, celebrate a special occasion, or enjoy the view with someone special, Flamenco delivers an unforgettable island experience.

Just off the coast of Fajardo lies Cayo Icacos, an uninhabited island known for its powdery white sand, calm turquoise water, and laid-back atmosphere. This secluded escape is part of the La Cordillera Nature Reserve and is a favorite for boaters, beach lovers, and day-trippers looking to unwind in a truly stunning setting.

With no buildings or crowds, Icacos offers the perfect place to relax in the sun, wade through warm, shallow waters, and enjoy incredible views of Puerto Rico’s east coast. Whether you're packing a picnic, snapping photos of the crystal-clear water, or just taking it all in from the shade of a beach umbrella, Icacos delivers that perfect tropical island vibe.

Tamarindo Reef offers a peaceful coastal escape known for its calm waters, gentle breezes, and natural beauty. Located along the west coast of Culebra, this beach is a local favorite for its incredible sunsets and easy access to shallow coral reefs just offshore.

The beach itself is lined with sea grape trees and is less crowded than Flamenco, making it a great spot to relax, read a book, or watch the waves roll in. The area is part of the Luis Peña Channel Nature Reserve, so it’s not only scenic but also protected, helping preserve its lush marine environment. Whether you’re here for a quiet afternoon or to catch a glimpse of wildlife, Tamarindo offers a tranquil setting in one of Culebra’s most serene locations.