Reserva Natural Cabezas de San Juan, Nature reserve in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
Reserva Natural Cabezas de San Juan is a protected area on Puerto Rico's northeastern coast spanning approximately 316 acres. It contains seven distinct ecosystems including mangroves, coral reefs, dry forests, beaches, and the bioluminescent Laguna Grande bay.
A lighthouse built in 1882 stands at the northeastern point of the reserve and has served as a navigation marker for over a century. This structure represents the area's long connection to maritime activity and Puerto Rico's coastal heritage.
The site is managed by local conservation organizations dedicated to protecting Puerto Rico's diverse ecosystems. Visitors experience educational programs that reveal how different habitats support distinct plant and animal communities.
The reserve is open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday between 8 AM and 4 PM with guided tours available. Advance reservations are necessary for all activities, so plan ahead and check conditions before your visit.
Laguna Grande glows with bioluminescence from microscopic organisms that emit blue light when the water is disturbed. Night tours reveal this natural phenomenon as paddling or movement creates trails of light across the bay.
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