Are you dreaming of visiting Gilligan’s Island in Puerto Rico? While the classic TV show was not actually filmed here, Puerto Rico’s mangrove paradise has earned its honorary name.
Imagine pristine waters, lush greenery, and the serene beauty of the Caribbean surrounding you.
Visiting this hidden gem on the Southwest coast of Puerto Rico is an unforgettable experience. Discover the vibrant marine life as you kayak through the mangroves or relax on the soft, sandy beaches.
Don’t miss out on this unique adventure—plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the charm of Gilligan’s Island!
Steps to Visiting Gilligan’s Island
1. Begin in Guánica
Gilligans Island, or Cayo Aurora, is in Guánica, Puerto Rico.
There are so many things to do in Guánica that I recommend spending at least a few days here. It’s a perfect extension to a Puerto Rico itinerary.
No public transportation options exist to access any of the docks to Gilligans Island. I recommend renting a car.
🚘Drive Times To Guánica
San Juan to Guánica: 1 hour 50 minutes
Ponce to Guánica: 35 minutes
Cabo Rojo to Guánica: 40 minutes
2. Getting From Guánica to Gilligan’s Island
Gilligans Island is protected through Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural Resources. After arriving in Guánica, you have several options for accessing the island.
The most common options include boat rental, sunset cruise, snorkeling tour, or taking a ferry tour.
Kayak Rental
Renting a kayak is the most common way to get to Gilligans Island.
I rented a kayak from Copamarina Resort. We tried calling phone numbers of other local kayak rental businesses online but were not able to get through.
As of January 2024, the cost to rent a kayak at Copamarina Beach Resort is $35 per hour for a single kayak or $40 per hour for a double kayak for the first hour only. It costs $15 for each additional hour.
Learn about kayak rental at Copamarina here.
Standup Paddle Board Rental
Copamarina offers standup paddle board (SUP) rentals, perfect for exploring the serene waters at your own pace.
Enjoy a unique vantage point to take in the stunning coastal scenery and vibrant marine life.
Paddle boarding is not only a fun activity but also a great full-body workout, enhancing balance and core strength.
Hobbie Cat Rental
The Hobbie Cat rental is an exciting choice for sailing enthusiasts looking to experience the thrill of wind-powered sailing.
This lightweight catamaran glides smoothly over the water, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure.
With its spacious design, it’s perfect for small groups, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the coastline together.
Rates are conveniently listed here, so you can easily plan your sailing adventure.
Snorkeling Tour
The snorkeling tour at Gilligan’s Island offers an opportunity to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems.
Guided by experienced staff, you’ll gain insights into the marine environment while ensuring safety and enjoyment.
Operating out of Copamarina Resort, this tour makes it easy to dive into an aquatic adventure without the hassle of additional transportation.
Sunset Cruise
Copamarina Resort’s sunset cruise around Gilligan’s Island is a perfect way to unwind after a day of activities.
This cruise offers the chance to spot local wildlife, enjoy refreshing beverages, and take stunning photos. Find more information here.
Ferry
Other tourists have mentioned a ferry service associated with a restaurant that operates from Tuesday to Sunday; however, they did not provide the name of the restaurant.
Due to the lack of available information online about this specific ferry service and its reliability, I do not recommend pursuing this option at this time.
Note: Gilligans Island closed after Hurricane Maria in 2017. While it is now back open, businesses that operated rentals and trips to the island are not all back up and running.
Puerto Rico Planning
- Christmas in San Juan
- Best Things to do in Old San Juan
- Best Things to do in Yauco
FAQ
Q: Are there any accommodations available on Gilligans Island?
A: Currently, there are no accommodations on Gilligans Island itself, but nearby resorts like Copamarina Resort offer lodging options.
Q: How many days do you need?
A: One day at Gilligan’s Island is sufficient. I recommend relaxing at the resort, or planning other activities around Guánica after you are done!
Q: Is there a fee for visiting Gilligans Island?
A: There is no entrance fee for Gilligans Island, but costs will apply for transportation options like kayaks or ferries to get there.
Q: Where to go after Gilligan’s Island?
A: Guanica is one of my favorite destinations in Puerto Rico. There are so many other amazing things to do like visiting the sunflower farm, hiking the dry forest, and so many more.
Q: Are there any safety precautions to take when visiting Gilligans Island?
A: It’s advisable to bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and to be mindful of the tides and weather conditions while enjoying the island.
Conclusion
When planning a visit to Gilligan’s Island, consider your transportation options.
You can rent a kayak for a more adventurous journey, allowing you to paddle through the beautiful waters and take in the stunning scenery along the way.
Pack essentials such as water, snacks, and sunscreen to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable outing.
Once you’ve explored Gilligan’s Island, take the opportunity to discover nearby attractions in Guánica. This charming coastal town offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and local eateries where you can savor traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.
Plan your visit today to experience the natural beauty of Gilligan’s Island and the surrounding areas, and create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise!
