Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The strand here is not very broad and is punctuated with coral outcroppings, but there
are plenty of shade trees. Snorkeling reefs extend for miles, and you can expect to have this
place pretty much to yourself, except on summer weekends, when a lot of yachts out of Fa-
jardo come here on day trips. Since this beach is generally sheltered from the trade winds,
you definitely want bug repellent.
Playa Grande
SECLUDED BEACH
Playa Grande has a long, narrow strip of sand and water that drops off very quickly (not
good for children or weak swimmers). If you head west on Rte 996 past Esperanza to Rte
201, you'll eventually come to a dead end where you can park and hit the sand.
ARE YOU A BIO-HAZARD?
If you're going to take a dip in the bioluminescent bay, make sure not to kill it with
curiosity. Sunscreen and insect repellant are harmful to the dynoflagellates that light
up the waters, and there's concern that swimming might be banned in the future (as it
has been in Fajardo's Laguna Grande) if visitors don't keep it clean. Conscientious
outfitters should make this clear when you sign up for a trip, but always make sure
you rinse off these substances before going to the bay.
Activities
Diving & Snorkeling
Blackbeard Sports
DIVING, SNORKELING
( 787-741-1892;
www.blackbeardsports.com
;
101 Calle Muñoz Rivera, Isabel Se-
gunda)
Blackbeard offers two-tank scuba dives from $100 and Professional Association of
Dive Instructors (PADI) certified basic open-water courses from $350. You can also rent
snorkel/scuba gear for $15/50 a day.
Nan-Sea Charters
DIVING, SNORKELING
