You can only reach Playa Isla Mattei by boat — most visitors book a tour or water taxi from Lajas.
- Diving
- Scenic
- Secluded
- ✓ Shade/Umbrellas
Boat or water taxi from Lajas. Most visitors book a tour. See tours →
Calm seas from April through September provide the best boat ride and snorkeling visibility.
Tours and water taxis depart from Lajas. See tours →
Boat access only with no lifeguards, emergency services, or medical facilities on the island.
Swim with a buddy and know your limits.
Bring water, shade, and food for the day.
Ways to experience Playa Isla Mattei
Bookable tours and activities at and around this beach.
Viator photoPopular Puerto Rico experienceAguadilla Tropical SnorkelingWe both love spending time in the ocean, that being surfing, bodysurfing, scubadiving, and swimming keeping safety our #1 priority, in order to have…◷ About 2 hours✓ Free cancellationFrom $98Check availability ↗Browse more tours on Viator ↗We may earn a commission when you book through Viator links, at no extra cost to you.
About Playa Isla Mattei
Isla Mattei is a small cay in the La Parguera Nature Reserve, named for the Corsican-Puerto Rican landowner Don Francisco Antonio Mattey and ringed by mangrove bays, salt marshes, and shallow reefs. Archaeologists have found evidence of pre-Columbian Taíno habitation here, a rare layer of history for a snorkel spot.
Local tips
What to Bring+
Sun and water protection:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect both your skin and the coral ecosystem
- Reusable water bottle and at least two liters of water per person
- Hat for sun protection (intense between 10 AM and 2 PM year-round)
- Water shoes for the rocky landing area
Diving and snorkeling:
- Dive certification card if you plan to dive
- Personal dive gear or contact a local dive shop for rentals
- Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, and fins—no rental shops on the island)
- Camera with extra batteries and waterproof housing for underwater photos
Food and supplies:
- All meals, snacks, and water packed in a cooler (no food vendors or freshwater sources on the island)
- First aid kit (no emergency services or medical facilities on the island)
Optional items:
- Tripod for sunset shots
- Binoculars for coastal views and wildlife observation
History & Background+
Playa Isla Mattei is located in the municipality of Lajas, a southwestern municipality on Puerto Rico's Lajas Valley and gateway to the La Parguera bioluminescent bay. On the southwestern tip of Puerto Rico, this area faces the Caribbean Sea with calm conditions and warm waters. The dry climate creates a landscape distinct from the rest of the island, with salt flats and scrubland meeting the shore.
This small cay sits within the protected La Parguera Nature Reserve, surrounded by mangrove bays, salt marshes, and coral reef systems that support diverse marine ecosystems. The island itself was named after Don Francisco Antonio Mattey, a Corsican-Puerto Rican landowner whose legacy remains tied to the region. Surrounding coral formations offer exceptional underwater exploration opportunities, with tropical fish, sea fans, and other reef organisms visible in the shallow waters around the island.
Archaeological evidence indicates pre-Columbian Taino habitation on the island, adding indigenous cultural significance to this protected cay. The municipality of Lajas reflects the ongoing relationship between Puerto Rico's coastal communities and the sea, carrying the character of its historical and natural heritage.
Nearby Attractions+
Playa Isla Mattei is situated in Lajas, which offers several attractions beyond the beach itself. The area's main draws include natural wonders, local dining, and nearby beaches worth exploring.
- La Parguera bioluminescent bay and mangrove channels: One of the area's most famous attractions, well worth a visit if you have extra time
- Cabo Rojo: A neighboring area worth exploring, a short drive away with additional beaches and attractions
- La Parguera Waterfront: Another beach option in the Lajas area with a different character
- Punta del Obispo Beach and Cayo Enrique: Additional beach destinations for exploring if you have time for beach hopping
- Local restaurants and chinchorros: Roadside food stalls serving traditional Puerto Rican fare including fresh seafood, mofongo (mashed plantain with garlic), and tostones (fried plantain slices)
- Weekend food stalls: Informal vendors selling empanadillas, bacalaítos (codfish fritters), and piraguas (shaved ice with fruit syrup) at affordable prices
- Lajas town center: Features a central plaza with a church, local shops, and cafes—a good place to experience everyday Puerto Rican town life
- Fiestas patronales: Weekend markets and festivals throughout the year, particularly patron saint celebrations featuring live music, food, and cultural performances
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Questions
Where is Playa Isla Mattei located?
Playa Isla Mattei is located in Lajas, Puerto Rico. The exact coordinates are 17.96751, -67.012839. You can use GPS navigation or follow signs to Lajas and look for beach access points.
Is Playa Isla Mattei good for swimming?
Yes, Playa Isla Mattei is a public beach open for swimming.
What facilities are available at Playa Isla Mattei?
Playa Isla Mattei offers the following facilities: Shade Structures.
What activities can I do at Playa Isla Mattei?
Popular activities at Playa Isla Mattei include swimming, snorkeling. The beach is perfect for a day trip from Lajas.
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