Caja de Muertos Nature Reserve, Nature reserve on offshore islands near Ponce, Puerto Rico.
Caja de Muertos Nature Reserve is an island conservation area off the coast of Ponce featuring a main island alongside smaller islands like Cayo Morrillito and Cayo Berbería. The landscape contains white sand beaches, extensive coral reefs, and low forest areas that thrive in the dry subtropical climate.
Spanish authorities built a lighthouse on the island in 1883 to aid ship navigation in the area. The tower was later upgraded and automated in 1945 to operate more efficiently.
The name reflects past burial practices that locals still remember when visiting these islands. Travelers can feel this historical connection while walking across the white sand beaches and exploring the quiet coves.
The easiest way to visit is by ferry from La Guancha Boardwalk in Ponce, with departures running multiple times daily. Bring sturdy shoes and sun protection, as the islands offer limited shade and weather can change quickly.
The islands feature four distinct beach sections, each with different characteristics ranging from quiet coves to more open shorelines. At the same time, the reserve protects nesting areas for sea turtles that are only active during certain seasons and rarely seen by visitors.
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