LAGUNA GRANDE PUERTO RICO

Found on the east of San Juan is the idyllic town of Fajardo, which is surrounded by white sand beaches and verdant nature reserves. It’s also home to Laguna Grande, one of three bioluminescent lagoons in Puerto Rico.

Laguna Grande is a popular place to visit in Puerto Rico, as it has incredible natural beauty. That said, it’s not always as clear as to what you can expect, what you can do, and how you can explore it.

Rest assured, we’ve prepared a detailed guide on this Puerto Rico bioluminescent bay, including some great things to do nearby.

Top 7 Things to Do in and Around Fajardo’s Bioluminescent Bay

Laguna Grande is around a 20-minute drive from central Fajardo, which is a great place to stay in Puerto Rico. It’s also close to some fantastic attractions, including beaches, rainforests, islands, and waterfalls. That said, here are our top picks!

1. Take a Boat Tour of Laguna Grande

The most popular method to visit the lagoon is via a kayak tour. Additionally, going on a Fajardo bioluminescent bay boat tour is a terrific way to explore the lagoon. These are the only ways to venture into the lagoon’s glowing waters. That’s because you need a permit from Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural Resources to visit it.

This is ultimately a good thing, as it prevents the lagoon from being overcrowded and conserves the condition of the water. On our El Yunque Rainforest and bio bay tour, you’ll get to see the incredible glowing effect caused by dinoflagellates in the water.

2. Hike to La Zanja

Another highlight near the bio bay and Fajardo is a stunning natural pool called La Zanja. To get to it, you’ll need to hike for around 30 minutes from Playa La Matita. It’s well worth the effort that hiking takes, as you’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing swim in its waters.

Additionally, the walk isn’t that much of a challenge as long as you don’t mind getting your feet wet along the way.

3. Swim at Its Many Beaches

Fajardo is surrounded by some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico. Seven Seas Beach has turquoise waters and has Blue Flag status. Playa Colorá has reddish sand and the perfect atmosphere for relaxing. Playa El Convento has views of El Yunque National Forest. Then, Playa Escondida, or the “Hidden Beach”, is one you have to hike through a mangrove forest to access.

4. Visit El Yunque National Forest

Another fantastic thing to do near Laguna Grande is to visit El Yunque National Forest. It’s home to some of the best hiking trails in Puerto Rico, such as the El Yunque Trail, the Mount Britton Tower Trail, and the Angelito Trail.

That’s not all this natural beauty has to offer, as there are so many other great things to do in El Yunque National Forest. This includes swimming under waterfalls, doing some horseback riding, and visiting the El Portal Visitor Center.

Top tip: If you’re looking for a fun way to experience El Yunque, our brilliant rainforest hike and waterslide tour is ideal.

5. Go Scuba Diving

The marine life around Fajardo and Laguna Grande is absolutely stunning. What’s a better way to experience this than scuba diving? Not much, as you’ll get to dive in Puerto Rico’s crystal-clear waters and see magical coral reefs. How does that sound for a fantastic day?

6. Take a Catamaran to Icacos Island

Another superb activity to do in Fajardo is voyaging on a catamaran to the nearby Icacos Island. There are so many catamaran cruise options to choose from in Puerto Rico. You can choose from a variety of pick-up locations, activities, and meal choices. Oh, and you can snorkel to your heart’s content.

7. Get Wet at Coqui Water Park

An exceptional way to cool off after busy days hiking and exploring humid rainforests is by cooling down at Coqui Water Park. It’s got a massive 253-foot-long slide, a lazy river, and a huge infinity pool. It’s open from 9 am until 5 pm, and entrance costs $20 per person.

Best Places to Stay Near Laguna Grande

As a top vacation spot in Puerto Rico, Fajardo is your best option for finding somewhere fantastic to stay. Here are our top three picks:

• Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort – Located just 30 minutes away from Fajardo’s Bio Bay, this delightful hotel has all you need for a relaxing stay. This includes 3 outdoor swimming pools, a 1-mile private beach, 13 tennis courts, 2 18-hole championship golf courses, and a gym.