Fajardo, Puerto Rico
(fah-HAHR-do)
Fajardo is one of Puerto Rico's most popular coastal destinations, known for its marinas, island excursions, bioluminescent bay, beaches, nature reserves, and access to nearby cays. Located on the island's eastern coast, north of Ceiba and east of Luquillo. Fajardo is a favorite base for sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, and day trips to Icacos, Palomino, Culebra, and Vieques. With its mix of natural beauty, ocean adventures, seafood restaurants, and scenic coastal views, Fajardo is ideal for travelers who want to experience Puerto Rico by land and sea.
Fajardo is known as "La Metrópolis del Sol Naciente" (the city that guards the sun of the Caribbean). Fajardo was founded in 1772. It was originally named Santiago de Fajardo.
Overview
Why Visit Fajardo?
Fajardo is Puerto Rico's gateway to unforgettable ocean adventures. From kayaking through a glowing bioluminescent bay and sailing to pristine offshore cays to snorkeling coral reefs and relaxing on beautiful beaches, Fajardo offers some of the island's best outdoor experiences. Its marinas, nature reserves, and coastal scenery make it a must-visit destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Before You Go
If you're visiting Fajardo, make time for at least one day on the water. Whether you choose a catamaran to Icacos, a snorkeling excursion, or an evening kayak tour through Laguna Grande, those experiences are what make Fajardo unlike anywhere else on the island.
Top Attractions in Fajardo
Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Bay
One of Puerto Rico's famous bioluminescent bays, best experienced by kayak at night when microscopic organisms glow as the water moves.Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve
A protected coastal reserve featuring mangroves, lagoons, coral reefs, dry forest, beaches, and the historic Fajardo lighthouse. It is one of the most important natural areas in Puerto Rico. Las Cabezas, which means "headlands," refer to 3 promontories that extend into the Atlantic Ocean. Impressive representation of seven different ecological systems including coral reefs, beaches, lagoons, mangroves and dry forest within its 316 acres/128 hectares. The preserve is also a scientific research center, which serve as a home of many endangered species. Visitors can explore the reserve along a network of trails and board-walks.The Nature Reserve is open for general and school group tours on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday morning and open to the public Wednesday through Sunday. Special rates are available for groups of 20 or more. Reservations are required for all visitors. Tours lasting two- and one-half hours, are scheduled four times daily: 9:30am, 10am, 10:30am and 2pm. An English tour is available at 2pm. Located on Route 987, (787) 722-5882 or (787) 860-2560.
Seven Seas Beach
A calm, family-friendly beach known for clear water, picnic areas, snorkeling, and easy access to nearby coastal trails.Icacos Island
A small uninhabited cay with white sand and turquoise waters, popular for catamaran trips, snorkeling, swimming, and beach excursions.Puerto del Rey Marina
One of the largest marinas in the Caribbean and a major departure point for boating, sailing, fishing, and island-hopping tours.Fajardo Lighthouse
Located inside Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve, this historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby islands. It is the island's second oldest lighthouse, built in 1880. The lighthouse is owned by the Conservation Trust, who carefully restored this lighthouse to its original and beautiful neoclassical style. The lighthouse has an information center and observation deck, on a clear day, reaches distant Caribbean islands.
Plan your Visit
Whether you are arriving by air at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) or docking at the bustling cruise port, the city serves as the ultimate gateway to the Puerto Rican experience.
Getting There
By Air
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan is the closest major airport, located about 45 minutes to 1 hour from Fajardo by car, depending on traffic.
By Sea
Fajardo is a major boating and marina destination. Many snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and island-hopping tours depart from the marina areas, especially to Icacos and nearby cays.
By Car
Fajardo is easily reached from San Juan via PR-66 and PR-3. A rental car is recommended, especially for visiting beaches, Las Cabezas de San Juan, Las Croabas, and nearby towns.
Entry Requirements
As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico requires no passport for U.S. citizens — a government-issued ID suffices. International visitors follow standard U.S. entry requirements.
Getting Around
Rental Car
A rental car is the easiest way to explore Fajardo and the surrounding east coast, including Luquillo, El Yunque, Ceiba, and Río Grande.
Boat Tours
Many of Fajardo's best experiences happen on the water, including sailing, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, and day trips to nearby islands and cays.
Taxis & Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare may be available, but service can be limited compared with San Juan. Hotels and tour operators can often help arrange transportation.
Nature & Resources
Geography
Located on Puerto Rico's northeastern coast, north of Ceiba and east of Luquillo. Fajardo overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Offshore are several small coral cays—including Icacos, Palomino, Palominito, and Diablo—that form part of La Cordillera Nature Reserve, one of Puerto Rico's most important marine ecosystems. These protected islands are popular destinations for snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and day cruises.
Neighborhoods & Barrios
Fajardo is divided into 9 barrios (wards or districts), each offering its own unique character. From lively beachfront communities known for surfing and nightlife to quiet residential and rural areas, the barrios help define the diverse landscapes and experiences found throughout the municipality.
- Cabezas
- Demajagua
- Florencio
- Naranjo
- Quebrada Fajardo
- Quebrada Vueltas
- Pueblo
- Río Arriba
- Sardinera
Climate
Fajardo annual precipitation is 66 inches, and its average temperature is 79°. The driest month is February and the wetest month is October.
10 Day Forecast from weather.com
Where to Stay
- El Conquistador Resort
- Las Casitas Village
- Fajardo Inn
- Local inns
- Guesthouses
- Condos near Seven Seas
- Vacation rentals near Las Croabas
- Small guesthouses
- Apartments
- Stays near downtown Fajardo
Fajardo offers a wide range of accommodations, from oceanfront resorts and marina-view villas to family-friendly condos, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a beach vacation, or an adventure-filled trip with kayaking, snorkeling, and island-hopping, browse places to stay in Fajardo.
Featured Tours
Local Flavors & Festivities
Where to Eat
- La Estación
- Sal & Pimienta
- El Varadero Seaside Grill
- Costa Mia
- La Ola
- Cinco Nudos
- Bakeries
- Food kiosks
- Cafés
- Local roadside restaurants
Own a restaurant in Fajardo? Send me a note to have your business considered for inclusion.
Festivals and Events
- Festival Cocolia - November
- Festival de Bomba y Plena - May
- Festival de Chiringas - April
- Festival del Name - West
- Fiestas del Paraiso - August
- Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apostol - July
Every year, Fajardo celebrates a patron saint festival. The festivities include dances, food, parades and religious processions. (787) 863-4013 - La Bicicletada Fajardena - April
- Regata de Veleros Copa Kelly - April
Moments in History
Fajardo is officially founded as a municipality.
The town grows as a coastal and agricultural community, supported by fishing, farming, and maritime trade.
The Fajardo lighthouse is built at Las Cabezas de San Juan to help guide ships navigating Puerto Rico's eastern coast.
Fajardo becomes increasingly known for boating, fishing, beaches, and tourism.
Fajardo is one of Puerto Rico's leading marine tourism destinations, known for marinas, bioluminescent kayaking, nature reserves, and island excursions.
Notable People
Fajardo has produced influential politicians, artists, and entertainers whose accomplishments have helped shape Puerto Rico's political and cultural history.
Famous Fajardeños
Antonio R. Barceló
1882–1938
Politics
Antonio Rafael Barceló was one of Puerto Rico's most influential political leaders during the early twentieth century. A lawyer, journalist, and statesman, he served as President of the Puerto Rico Senate from 1917 until his death in 1938 and was a leading advocate for greater self-government for Puerto Rico. Today, he is remembered as one of the island's most important political figures.
Marquita Rivera
1922–2002
Entertainment
Marquita Rivera was a singer, dancer, actress, and television personality who became the first Puerto Rican actress to appear in a major Hollywood motion picture. During the 1940s and 1950s, she performed alongside many of the biggest stars of her era, helping introduce Puerto Rican talent to international audiences and becoming a pioneer for Hispanic entertainers.
City Symbols
Anthem: Fajardo que aqui en el oriente...
Human & Capital Resources
Economy
Principal manufactures of the area include cigars, furniture, metal and electronic components.
Education
There are 15 public schools in Fajardo, education is handled by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. Fajardo is also home of 2 colleges and universities.
Demographics *
Population
32,124
Land Area: 29.86 sq mi
Density: 1,012 per sq mi
Median Age: 42.4
Sex: 53% female
Economics **
$12,913
Median household income: $19,957
Puerto Rico: $21,058
Persons below poverty line: 44.3%
Housing, families and educational attainment *
Number of households
4,268
Housing units density:
649.4 (2013)
Persons per household: 2.69
High school grad or higher: 81.3%
Marital status: 36% married
* U.S. Census Bureau 2020 data, unless otherwise noted - Source: Quick Facts Puerto Rico.
** U.S. Census Bureau 2016-2020
Map References
Coordinates: 18.3258° N, 65.6525° W
ZIP Code: 00738, 00740
Driving Distance from San Juan: 29.1 miles
Driving Time: 54 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Fajardo located?
Fajardo is located on Puerto Rico's northeastern coast, about 40 miles (64 km) east of San Juan.
What is Fajardo known for?
Fajardo is known for its marinas, bioluminescent bay, beautiful beaches, snorkeling, sailing, and as the gateway to Icacos, Culebra, and Vieques.
Can you visit a bioluminescent bay in Fajardo?
Yes. Laguna Grande is one of Puerto Rico's three bioluminescent bays and is best experienced on a guided nighttime kayak tour.
What are the best beaches in Fajardo?
Popular beaches include Seven Seas Beach, Playa Escondida, Playa Colora, and nearby Icacos Cay, known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling.
Is Fajardo a good place to stay?
Yes. Fajardo offers beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and easy access to beaches, island excursions, El Yunque National Forest, and the eastern coast.
Do you need a rental car in Fajardo?
Yes. A rental car is recommended for exploring Fajardo's beaches, marinas, nature reserves, and nearby attractions.
What islands can you visit from Fajardo?
Boat tours depart regularly for Icacos Cay, Palomino Island, Palominito, and other islands within La Cordillera Nature Reserve. Passenger ferries to Vieques and Culebra depart from nearby Ceiba.
How far is Fajardo from San Juan?
Fajardo is approximately 1 hour from San Juan by car, depending on traffic.
Other Resources
- Fajardo Map by TravelMaps.com
Did You Know?
Puerto Rico has never been an independent country.
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