Did you know that Isla Mata La Gata—which translates to “Kill the Cat” in English but actually means “Nurse Shark Grove” in local vernacular—is one of the few mangrove cays in Puerto Rico with developed facilities for visitors? This tiny slice of paradise, measuring only about 450 m (1,500 ft) long and 365 m (1,200 ft) wide, offers some of the clearest waters in the Caribbean, perfect for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs that shelter over 35 species of marine life.
Getting to Know Isla Mata La Gata
Isla Mata La Gata is a small mangrove cay situated between Cayo Enrique and Cayo Caracoles, approximately 1 to 2 nautical miles south of La Parguera in the southwestern part of Puerto Rico. This tiny island paradise is part of La Parguera Nature Reserve in the municipality of Lajas.
Formed by coral fragments caught in red mangrove roots, the island features a small white sand beach area and a natural ocean pool that’s protected from surges and currents. The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA) manages the island and has constructed facilities to enhance visitor experience.
Recent hurricanes and earthquakes have caused some damage to the island’s infrastructure, with limited maintenance being performed. Local volunteers are working to restore and maintain this beautiful spot. Currently, visitors primarily enjoy the surrounding waters rather than spending time on the limited land area.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Being an island, you’ll need watercraft to reach Isla Mata La Gata. The journey begins in La Parguera, a small fishing village in Lajas. From San Juan, it’s approximately a 2.5-hour drive to La Parguera. The nearest major airport is Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla (about 1.5 hours away) or Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.
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Once in La Parguera, you have several options to reach Mata La Gata:
Water Taxi
The most convenient option costs around $22-25 per person round trip (cash only). The ride takes 10-15 minutes each way. Operators will drop you off and pick you up at a pre-arranged time.
Boat Rental
Rent a small motorboat and navigate yourself to the island. This gives you flexibility with timing but requires basic boating knowledge. Local operators like Fondo de Cristal offer rentals.
Kayak Tour
Join a guided kayak tour for a more adventurous approach. These tours can be physically demanding due to winds and currents, but offer a unique perspective of the area.
Need Transportation in Puerto Rico?
Rent a car to explore Puerto Rico at your own pace and easily reach La Parguera.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
The ideal time to visit Isla Mata La Gata is during Puerto Rico’s dry season, from December to April. During these months, you’ll experience less rainfall, lower humidity, and temperatures averaging around 27°C (80°F). The waters are typically calmer, making boat transportation more reliable and water activities more enjoyable.
Recommended Months
- December to April (dry season)
- Early morning visits (less crowded)
- Weekdays (fewer local visitors)
Months to Avoid
- June to November (hurricane season)
- Summer weekends (extremely crowded)
- Days with strong wind forecasts
Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the highest risk in August and September. During these months, weather can be unpredictable, and services to the island may be limited or canceled. Additionally, summer weekends (especially July and August) bring large crowds of local visitors, which can make the small island feel overcrowded.
Activities & Things to Do
Despite its small size, Isla Mata La Gata offers plenty of activities for nature lovers and water enthusiasts. The island’s pristine waters and surrounding ecosystem provide the perfect setting for a day of exploration and relaxation.
Water Activities
Snorkeling
The healthy coral reef along the south side of the island offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. You’ll spot colorful fish, sea fans, and various coral formations. Be careful of currents and always use a marker to be visible to boaters.
Swimming
The enclosed natural ocean pool provides a safe area for swimming, protected from strong currents. The clear, shallow waters make it ideal for families with children or less confident swimmers.
Kayaking
Paddle around the island to explore its mangrove ecosystem and enjoy views from the water. Many visitors bring their own kayaks or join guided kayak tours that visit multiple cays in the area.
On-Island Activities
Picnicking
The island has picnic tables and gazebos where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by beautiful views. Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no vendors on the island.
Nature Observation
Walk along the small boardwalk through the mangroves to observe the unique ecosystem. Look for birds, crabs, and other wildlife that make their home in this environment.
Explore Tours & Activities
Book guided tours to Isla Mata La Gata and other attractions in La Parguera, including the famous bioluminescent bay!
Nearby Attractions
While Isla Mata La Gata is worth a full day’s visit, there are several nearby attractions that complement your island adventure:
Bahía Fosforescente
La Parguera’s famous bioluminescent bay is one of only a few in the world. Night tours allow you to witness the magical glow created by microscopic organisms in the water. Many tour operators offer combined day trips to Mata La Gata and evening visits to the bio bay.
Cayo Enrique
Another nearby cay with excellent snorkeling opportunities. The reef here is considered one of the best in the area, with diverse marine life and coral formations. It’s often included in multi-cay boat tours.
La Parguera Village
This charming fishing village has a lively waterfront with restaurants, shops, and a weekend market. The recently renovated Malecón (boardwalk) makes for a pleasant evening stroll after a day on the water.
Where to Stay
There are no overnight accommodations on Isla Mata La Gata itself, but La Parguera and the surrounding area offer several options for your stay:
La Parguera
Staying in La Parguera puts you closest to the departure point for Mata La Gata. Options range from small guesthouses to vacation rentals. Parador Villa Parguera is a popular choice with a pool and restaurant.
Lajas
The broader municipality offers additional accommodations, including vacation rentals and small hotels. Staying here gives you access to more local amenities while still being close to La Parguera.
Cabo Rojo
About 30 minutes away, Cabo Rojo offers more extensive lodging options, including beachfront resorts and luxury accommodations. It’s a good base if you’re planning to explore other parts of southwest Puerto Rico.
Find Your Perfect Stay
Browse accommodations near La Parguera and book your stay for your Isla Mata La Gata adventure.
Dining & Local Cuisine
There are no food vendors on Isla Mata La Gata, so you’ll need to bring your own provisions for the day. However, La Parguera offers several dining options for before or after your island visit:
What to Bring to the Island
- Plenty of drinking water (at least 1 liter per person)
- Sandwiches, wraps, or other portable meals
- Snacks and fruit
- Cooler with ice to keep everything fresh
Where to Eat in La Parguera
- El Turrumote – Seafood restaurant with waterfront views
- La Parguera Restaurant – Local cuisine and fresh catch
- Agua Na’ Boca – Casual dining with Puerto Rican favorites
- Food kiosks along the Malecón for quick bites
Don’t miss trying local Puerto Rican specialties like mofongo (mashed plantains with seafood or meat), fresh fish with criolla sauce, or empanadillas de jueyes (crab turnovers). Many restaurants in La Parguera specialize in the day’s fresh catch, prepared with local seasonings and accompaniments.
Practical Travel Tips
What to Bring
Essentials
- Reef-safe sunscreen (crucial for protecting the coral)
- Hat, sunglasses, and light cover-up
- Water shoes (helpful for rocky areas)
- Towels and swimwear
- Waterproof bag for electronics
- Cash for boat transportation (most don’t accept cards)
Optional Items
- Snorkeling gear (can also be rented locally)
- Waterproof camera
- Portable shade (small umbrella or pop-up tent)
- Insect repellent (especially for mangrove areas)
- First aid kit with basic supplies
Safety Considerations
While Isla Mata La Gata is generally a safe destination, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Be aware of currents when snorkeling, especially on the south and east sides of the island
- Use a dive flag or marker when snorkeling to be visible to boat traffic
- The island has limited shade, so protect yourself from sun exposure
- Facilities on the island may be in disrepair; use caution
- Check weather forecasts before your trip, as conditions can change quickly
- If kayaking to the island, inform someone of your plans and expected return
Environmental Responsibility: Isla Mata La Gata is part of a fragile ecosystem. Please take all trash with you when you leave, avoid touching or standing on coral, and use only reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
Arriving by Cruise?
If you’re visiting Puerto Rico as part of a cruise, consider adding a day trip to Isla Mata La Gata to your itinerary. Many cruise lines dock in San Juan, from where you can arrange transportation to La Parguera.
Ready for Your Island Adventure?
Isla Mata La Gata may be small in size, but it offers an authentic Puerto Rican island experience that’s increasingly rare to find. From its crystal-clear protected waters to the surrounding vibrant coral reefs, this little paradise provides a perfect day trip for nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers alike.
While recent natural events have affected some of the island’s infrastructure, the natural beauty remains intact, and local volunteers are working to preserve this special place. By visiting responsibly and respecting the environment, you’ll help ensure that Isla Mata La Gata remains a treasure for generations to come.
Whether you’re snorkeling among colorful fish, relaxing in the natural ocean pool, or simply soaking up the Caribbean sun, a day at Isla Mata La Gata will likely become a highlight of your Puerto Rico adventure. Pack your essentials, book your transportation, and get ready to discover one of Puerto Rico’s hidden gems!
The above is subject to change.
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