Where is Gilligans Island located?

Gilligans Island is located in Guanica, Puerto Rico. The exact coordinates are 17.942468, -66.871009. You can use GPS navigation or follow signs to Guanica and look for beach access points.

Is Gilligans Island good for swimming?

Yes, Gilligans Island is a public beach open for swimming. The beach has calm waters, making it ideal for swimming.

What facilities are available at Gilligans Island?

Gilligans Island offers the following facilities: Parking, Picnic Areas, Restrooms.

What activities can I do at Gilligans Island?

Popular activities at Gilligans Island include swimming, snorkeling. The beach is family-friendly and perfect for a day trip from Guanica.

Is there parking at Gilligans Island?

Yes, Gilligans Island has parking available.

Gilligans Island - Guanica | Puerto Rico Beach Finder

At a glance

Gilligans Island is a family-friendly beach in Guanica, Puerto Rico, known for calm waters and families. Facilities include parking, restrooms.

Swimming

Check conditions

Snorkel

Great — reef

Family

Safe for kids

Access

Short path

Best for

Scenic
✓ Parking
✓ Picnic Areas
✓ Restrooms

Getting there

Short path.

Best time

The dry season from December through April offers the best visibility for snorkeling and the calmest water for…

Know before you go

Heads up

Shallow, calm water makes this safe for most swimmers and snorkelers. Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral.

No lifeguard

Swim with a buddy and know your limits.

Parking

Park at the mainland ferry departure point in Guánica. The lot accommodates around 30 cars and fills on weekend mornings. Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to secure a spot.

Conditions today

89°Overcast · feels like 96°

☀ UV High 💨 Wind 7 mph

☀ Sunrise 6:14 am🌙 Sunset 6:35 pm

Where it is

Guanica · Porta del Sol17.94°N 66.87°W

Ways to experience Gilligans Island

Bookable tours and activities at and around this beach.

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About Gilligans Island

Gilligans Island, officially called Cayo Aurora, is a tiny mangrove cay off Guánica's coast reachable by ferry or kayak. Its shallow, calm waters and healthy coral reefs make it ideal for beginner snorkeling and family swimming. The island features picnic pavilions and composting restrooms, with scenic views of seagrass beds and abundant marine life. Open Tuesday through Sunday.

Local tips

✔Open Tuesday through Sunday; arrive early as the ferry has limited capacity and fills quickly

✔Bring your own snorkel gear, sunscreen, water, and food since the island has no vendors

✔The ferry ride is short but can be choppy; take seasickness precautions if sensitive

✔Ferry tickets are inexpensive; kayak rental from the mainland is another affordable option

✔Use the composting restrooms on the island and pack out all trash to protect the ecosystem

Plan Your Visit

What to Bring+

Sun and Water Protection:

Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect both your skin and coral ecosystems
Reusable water bottle with plenty of water to stay hydrated in Puerto Rico's intense tropical sun
Wide-brimmed hat for head and face protection, especially important between 10 AM and 2 PM

Snorkeling and Swimming Gear:

Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel, fins) or plan to rent on the mainland before boarding
Floats or inflatables for lounging on calm waters
Water shoes for protection from sea urchins in rocky areas

Shade and Comfort:

Portable beach umbrella or pop-up shade tent, as natural shade is limited on the island
Beach towel and dry change of clothes

Food and Supplies:

Meals, snacks, and cooler with ice, as there are no food vendors at or near the island
Camera with extra battery and tripod for sunset shots and scenic photos
Trash bag to pack out all waste and protect the ecosystem

About This Beach

History & Background+

Gilligans Island, officially called Cayo Aurora, is a small mangrove cay located off the coast of Guánica municipality in Puerto Rico. This island is surrounded by seagrass beds and healthy coral formations that create a rich and vibrant marine ecosystem, making it a distinctive natural feature of Puerto Rico's southern coast.

The shallow, calm Caribbean waters surrounding the island, combined with excellent visibility, support abundant marine life and make it one of the best locations for first-time snorkelers and families with children. Access to the island is available by scheduled ferry boat or by paddling a kayak from the Guánica mainland, adding an adventure element to the beach visit. Visitors will find picnic pavilions and composting restrooms on the island, which operates Tuesday through Sunday.

Nearby Attractions+

Gilligans Island is situated in Guánica, a municipality with several attractions and dining options worth exploring. The area offers both natural and cultural experiences that complement a beach day.

Guánica Town Center: Visit the central plaza with its church, local shops, and cafes to experience everyday Puerto Rican town life. Weekend markets and patron saint celebrations (fiestas patronales) throughout the year feature live music, food, and cultural performances.
Local Restaurants and Food Stands: Look for roadside kiosks (chinchorros) serving traditional Puerto Rican fare including fresh seafood, mofongo (mashed plantain with garlic), and tostones (fried plantain slices). Weekend food stalls sell empanadillas, bacalaítos (codfish fritters), and piraguas (shaved ice with fruit syrup) at affordable prices. Ask locals for their favorite spots—the best food is often at the least conspicuous establishments.
Nearby Beaches: Explore other beaches in the Guánica area including Balneario Caña Gorda, Esperanza, and Playa La Jungla, each with distinct characteristics worth visiting if you have time for beach hopping.