Gilligan's Island

Location: Cayo Aurora, Guánica

Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours 15 minutes southwest to Guánica. The ferry that used to run here is permanently out of commission so you either need to find someone with a boat or rent a kayak. I got there on my inflatable SUP without too much trouble but I imagine it would be tough on a very windy day. I parked in the neighborhood close to the island and put in at some sketchy rock shelf behind someone’s house to leave from a point much closer to the island. Most people rent kayaks and depart from this resort. For me, the paddle out, against the wind, took about 30 min. 

What to look for: The mangrove roots are a natural fish nursery. You’ll be able to see small fish making this place their home. I also spotted a ray and a porcupine fish. 

Heads up: You may find a rather strong current when swimming in the channels. It may even be too strong for many to swim comfortably against the current. You might try paddling up the channel and swimming back with the current.