Bonaire, located south of Aruba and 50 miles east of Venezuela, it’s the B of the ABC islands of the Dutch Caribbean. Known for scuba diving, candy- colored Dutch architecture, and landscapes – varying from 30 feet tall prickly cactus’, to pink Flamingos roaming salt flats – makes Bonaire a unique destination for any traveler.

Bonaire National Marine Park

The waters surrounding Bonaire, and tiny nearby island Klein Bonaire, are both apart of the Bonaire National Marine Park, and have set the standards for the world’s marine conservation efforts. With 88 marked dive sites, it’s as if this tiny island was made for diving and snorkeling. Steep walls, sloping drop-offs, exciting wrecks, and crystal-clear water makes it one of the most revered dive sites in the world. A one-day introduction to scuba or a 4-5-day course to acquire a PADI underwater scuba certification, are all doable on Bonaire.

Klein Bonaire

On a recent visit, I had the opportunity to sail on a magnificent Siamese junk, the Samur, to the unblemished oasis of Klein Bonaire. This 56-foot, intricately carved sailing vessel was hand-built in Thailand.

The red sails caught the wind as it cruised the surrounding ocean, transporting me back to a time when sailing ships ruled the seas. The uninhabited island greeting me with pristine powder white sand and exceptional reef snorkeling directly off the beach. Parrotfish, angelfish, octopus, and sea horses gracefully swam about, undisturbed by my presence.

Bonaire’s Flamingos

On the southern end of Bonaire lies vast salt pans and shallow lagoons called the Pekelmeer. For centuries salt has been dried and harvested here. Nearby, American Flamingos can be spotted thanks to the conservation efforts of Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary, one of the four places in the world where they breed. Seeing and hearing hundreds of pink flamingos is a truly stirring sight.

Kralendijk

With colorful buildings, downtown Kralendijk is a charming town with boutiques and restaurants. Locally made glass jewelry and bath salts from Bonaire’s famous salt flats can be purchased.

Looking to try something new? Taste the local fresh catch of the day, lionfish. An invasive species to the area, it’s often pan seared with herbs to bring about its mild flavor. If you’ve never tried drinking cactus, you can at the Cadushy Distillery, the maker of the world’s only cactus liqueur.

Bonaire has no rainy season and temperatures are consistently in the 70s and 80s. It’s quiet, laid back, and there are no high-rise hotels or flashy casinos. For where to stay, the Tourism Corporation Bonaire provides information on accommodation choices.  

This island, dedicated to protecting its natural beauty and environment, must be visited to be truly appreciated. It’s one of my favorite places to kick back, relax, and explore the stunning reefs.

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Northeast Puerto Rico’s Top 12 Adventures

There’s so much to love about Puerto Rico, so I picked my favorite 12 awesome adventures in Northeast Puerto Rico. Towns like Rio Grande, Palmer, Luquillo, Fajardo, and Ceiba are all found in the northeast corridor and are all approximately 35-45 minutes from San Juan airport. They just keep getting better and better with awesome things to do, see, and eat.

1) ENCOUNTER Turtles, Sting Rays, and Lobsters

Come face-to-face with turtles and hover past sting rays as blue tang, and colorful snapper swim by. In Las Croabas or Marina Del Rey in Fajardo tour operators will take you out on a catamaran or you can rent a “mini boat” to the best snorkeling spots, some near deserted islands. It’s one of my favorite ways to spend the day on and under the water. The tour operators supply everything you need for a fun day.

2) WITNESS a Glowing Blue Bay at Night

Learn the science as to why this is one of the most unique experiences in Puerto Rico. In Las Croabas Fajardo and Vieques there are numerous tour operators who guide you via kayak through the mangrove forest into a vast bio bay. Here you will witness bioluminescent plankton glowing blue. It’s a very unique tour everyone should experience.

3) PADDLE to Underwater Sea Life

Near Seven Seas Beach in Fajardo is where you’ll find vendors who will set you up with stand up paddle boards or kayaks.  If you’ve never done it before, don’t worry, they’ll give you a lesson. Pirate Snorkeling Shack is one of my favorite. They give you a map to the reefs or they’ll give you a private tour. The water is calm and clear.  You can hop off your kayak or paddle board and spend time snorkeling. You’ll be amazed at what you’ll see underwater very close to shore.

4) COOL YOUR JETS from the Summer Heat

On Luquillo and Seven Seas Beaches you can rent jet skis. They’re a great way to experience the beach from another perspective while getting your adrenaline rush.

5) TAKE A DIP

In the heat of the Puerto Rican sun, you need to cool yourself off!  After a hike to La Mina Falls enjoy a cold dip in the water while the waterfall cascades down the rocks and over your head. El Yunque National Forest in Rio Grande, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, is where you’ll find great hiking trails, refreshing waterfalls, and breathtaking views.

6) INDULGE YOUR INNER FOODIE

You’ll truly be entertained at the Kiosks in Luquillo.  Over 70 beach front vendors offer local Puerto Rican food such as mofongo, tostones, and pinchos. You can also find that hamburger or pizza, but why?  When in Puerto Rico eat like a local.  The food is delicious. In the evening, many venues have entertainment such as Charlie Sepuvelda, a famous Puerto Rican Jazz artist.

7) EARN BRAGGING RIGHTS

You’ve always wanted to surf, now’s the time. Catch a wave at La Pared in Luquillo. There are  several surf schools who would be happy to give you a lesson. With a sandy bottom it’s a perfect place to learn to surf.  You’ll never forget catching your first wave.

8) ZIP THROUGH THE AIR

Your friends will be jealous when you tell them about the incredible adventures you had in Puerto Rico.  Zip line tours are available at the base of El Yunque Rain Forest in Rio Grande. You’ll be outfitted with everything you need to fly over the treetops.

9) GO ON A WILD RIDE

ATV adventures, Horseback Riding, and Go Carts are available at the foothills of El Yunque National Rainforest, Rio Grande.  This area is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and trails which make it perfect terrain for these activities. Puerto Rico’s spectacular scenery will amaze you.

10) SPEND TIME SHOPPING

The little town of Palmer, which you go through to get to El Yunque, is a quaint place to stop for a cool drink or a tasty lunch. The town also offers shops featuring hand-made products, artisanal goods, t-shirts, and specialty foods such as hot sauces. Caribbean Trading is my favorite.

11)  GET HANDS ON with Nature

Get hands-on and hold phytoplankton or stroke a sea cucumber. Find out which mango trees make the water red and climb to the top of a 19^th century lighthouse for spectacular views of the surrounding islands. La Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve in Fajardo will provide you with an interesting and informative tour as you explore the sensitive eco-systems with trained guides. Tours can be booked through the nonprofit organization Para La Naturaleza.

12) FLY OR FERRY to the Spanish Virgin Islands

Take a short flight from Ceiba or a ferry from Fajardo to the islands of Culebra or Vieques.  Both islands have beautiful beaches, but Culebra has one of the world’s famous – Flamenco Beach. Soft sand and crystal clear water make it a favorite for many. Tamarindo beach is the best for snorkeling with turtles.  On the island of Vieques is where you’ll find one of the two bio bays located on the northeast. Exploring either island is a great way to spend an action packed day of snorkeling, swimming, and exploring.

There’s no denying Puerto Rico has plenty things to do and see. The island has numerous coconut trees, too.  If you need a break from snorkeling or zip lining, crack open a coconut and sit on one of the many beautiful beaches with the warm crystal blue water lapping at your feet.

Sandy Ruyack is the owner and writer of the popular and award-winning adventure travel blog, Boulevards and Byways. Her stories and photographs reflect her love of travel to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean – providing travel guides, destination tips, and vacation inspiration. Through transformative travel experiences, she encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones and take the road less traveled. Boulevards and Byways has provided content for an array of hotels, tour companies, and travel publications. A native New Yorker, she and her husband split their time between Brewster, NY and Luquillo, Puerto Rico

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Where to go for the Best Snorkeling in Puerto Rico.

Many visitors flock to Puerto Rico’s beaches but never explore the vibrant undersea life. Colorful snapper, angel-like palometa, and blue tang swim in abundance around bright yellow coral and purple fans. Turtles pop their heads above water and then gracefully float back down to eat their dinner among the sea grass. There are many tour operators who offer an assortment of excursions to various snorkeling sites providing an educational and safe experience.  Come on, step out of your comfort zone and into an underwater adventure.  Here are two best snorkeling trips in Puerto Rico which will take you to some of the area’s best spots to see a myriad of fish and turtles. By the way, I tried out my NEW full face snorkel mask and loved it. See below for where you can get one too!

Tobias Tours via a High Speed Power Boat

Why is this the Best Snorkeling Tour in Puerto Rico?

Tobias Tours does everything possible to make your snorkeling adventure safe and comfortable. Upon departing Villa Marina in Fajardo, on their comfortable 46 foot power boat, we head out to the island of  Culebra. After about a 45 minute ride, we first arrive at a secluded cove in the Luis Pena Channel and anchor while we snorkel the crystal clear warm waters.  We were not disappointed.  Schools of brightly colored fish, sea turtles, and stingrays were seen. Snorkeling is incredibly fun, relaxing, and a wonderful way to explore the ocean.  You can just drift through the water, relax, and enjoy the underwater scenery.

We then headed over to another snorkeling spot. Different snorkeling sites have vastly different marine life to see and experience. Some shallow areas can be filled with incredible life forms such as sponges, corals, and fish. Other spots, such as coral reefs, can be very rich with colorful and vibrant sea life.

Because of weather conditions we were not able to snorkel off of Flamenco Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but  the captains always have a few other places on hand.  Carlos Rosario, Tamarindo, and Punta Soldado were some of the options, they however took us to Playa Tortuga off of Culebrita island.  We were able to easily snorkel off shore, explore the beach for a bit, and return to the boat for lunch.  After enjoying a tasty lunch of  tuna and chicken salads, pasta, bread, local fruits, snacks, and unlimited refreshments, we still had time to head back out for another round of snorkeling.  We returned to the marina at around 3:45- 4:00pm.

Prices are $95 per person plus tax, children 6-12 are $73, children under 6 are not permitted.  This is a day trip lasting from around 9:30-4. Included is all snorkeling gear, flotation devices, snorkeling instruction, and sea ladders for easy water access.The price also includes lunch and unlimited beverages.

Address: Villa Marina, Fajardo

Phone: +1 787-567-4495

Web: Tobias Snorkel and Beach Tours

Kayaking Puerto Rico Snorkeling & Adventure Tours

Try a Mini Boat Adventure – Where you’re the Captain

Why is this the Best Snorkeling Tour in Puerto Rico?

What a blast we had piloting our own 13′ inflatable mini boat through the uninhabited cays and to the stunning beach of the cay of Icacos!  After a thorough lesson by a certified instructor on piloting the boat, we began our adventure.  The seas were a bit rough that morning, and even though I was hanging on the side handles of the boat, I was still bouncing up and out of my seat. It was all good fun and added to the many great experiences we had throughout the day. The guides lead the way as each of the mini boats in the tour followed one another through the crystal clear waters toward the crystal clear waters of  Icacos. As the waves splashed up onto our boat, they provided a cool and refreshing reprise from the sun.

The first snorkeling destination was quite a ways off-shore and as as we disembarked from our boats the eco-guide lead the way through spectacular coral reef formations as we swam among schools of colorful tropical fish, and learned about the wonders of the underwater world.  We even saw a lobster and a puffer fish! I was impressed that the guide took the time to interpret the natural history of the reserve as he guided us through an amazing snorkeling trail.

We then headed to Icacos Cay. Icacos is one of a string of cays which form the Cordillera Cays Nature Reserve.  The beach here was amazingly beautiful but we didn’t see much as we snorkeled around the crystal clear waters. The water, beach, and view were amazingly beautiful and we were content to take a short hike on the beach and relax in the warm water.  After a swim, snacks, and refreshments, which are in the coolers provided in each Mini Boat, we headed back to Fajardo.

Depending on the weather, the guides will lead you where conditions and snorkeling are best at the time.  We were supposed to go to Palominito Island, which is surrounded by coral reefs and was seen in the movie Pirates of the Caribbean 4, but the water was a bit too choppy for a visit.

Overall, driving in the mini boat was a unique way to visit the snorkeling sites of this area.  It added another dimension to the overall  snorkeling adventure and the guides did an excellent job leading our group both over and under the water.  It was an excellent half day trip and can’t wait to do it again.

Life jackets, snorkeling equipment and snacks and refreshments are all included.

Check the website for prices.

Address: Carr 987, Km 5.4, Las Croabas, Fajardo 00738

Phone: 787.245-4545

Web: Miniboat Adventures

Here’s where you can get your Full Face Snorkel Mask:

I bought this Full Face Snorkel Mask from Amazon and loved it!  Finally a mask that does not leak.  I have always had a problem with water getting into my mask because of my hair bunching up and compromising the seal.   I did not have this problem at all with this mask. It also doesn’t fog (no more spitting in your mask).  It’s been the best mask I’ve had for snorkeling, which I do quite often. You can purchase from the link below:

We are a participant in the Amazon Associates, LLC program, an advertising program allowing us to receive fees when you purchase the product above. It does not in any way add to your cost. 

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The top 3 beaches in Northeast Puerto Rico are in the quaint town of Luquillo. Only a half hour from San Juan airport, it’s known as “La Capital del Sol” or Sun Capital.

La Monserrate Balneario (often called Luquillo Beach), Playa Azul, and La Pared, each remind me of glimmering jewels; brilliantly stunning, yet each one unique, making them my top 3 beaches in Puerto Rico.

Playa Azul

Playa Azul, flanked to the west by Luquillo Beach and to the east by La Pared. It’s 11:15am. A group of sandcastles rise above the surf. They’re the only indication that someone was here before, otherwise I’m the only one on the beach. That’s how it is oftentimes, just me and the billowing palm trees, its coconuts hanging like clusters of grapes waiting to be plucked as they cast a partial shadow overhead, the waves breaking at shore, stretching its finger like tentacles toward my toes. It’s a place where all that’s stressful drifts away.  There are no public facilities here. On days when the water is calm, it’s not uncommon to see snorkelers exploring the reefs which are close to shore.  On Friday’s through Sunday’s kayaks can be rented. On weekends and holidays, is when the beach gets busy as families picnic, grill, and make a day of enjoying the expansive sand and surf.

La Monserrate or Luquillo Beach

La Monserrate or Luquillo Beach is what’s called a Balneario or public beach. Here is where you’ll find several outdoor eateries and bathrooms. The waters are generally calm, and the beach front is kissed with bright red lifeguard stations flanked by tall, willowy coconut trees.  On the weekends spirited local families can be found picnicking and listening to music. One side of the beach is flanked by the majestic towering mountains of El Yunque Rain Forest whose verdant peaks jet up toward the sky, while the other side offers the peaceful views of the Atlantic Ocean stretching hypnotically toward the horizon.

La Pared

La Pared or “The Wall” is where the surfers go. It is where the sea is disturbed by opposing winds and the waves get large and strong. The town of Luquillo recently completed a colorful mosaic wall separating the road from the beach.  It is one of the steps taken to revitalize the area providing visitors and locals with a beautiful promenade to stroll or sit and watch the surfers catch a wave. It’s also where the sea-breeze is invigorating and the area full of action, making it a place for you to arrange a surf lesson, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy music at one of the local venues. On days when the surf picks up it’s not uncommon to see red flags flapping in the wind warning swimmers to stay out of the water, but that shouldn’t dissuade anyone from taking a leisurely stroll along the brilliant shore.

I’m at peace when I’m at any of these top three beaches in northeast Puerto Rico. Each one unique, each breathtaking, each a special place to build a castle in the sand.

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