Mata La Gata Cay

The calm, shallow waters are ideal for families and novice swimmers, while more experienced divers can explore deeper areas with stronger currents. The island’s compact size—approximately 1,500 feet long and 1,200 feet wide—ensures a close-to-nature experience without sacrificing comfort.

Mata La Gata Cay is equipped with basic amenities, including restrooms, changing rooms, showers, gazebos, barbecue areas, and picnic tables, ensuring visitors can enjoy a day out without the need for advanced planning. A large, fenced natural pool provides a unique swimming experience, while the extended pier makes it easy to access the surrounding waters for a variety of water sports and activities.

Natural Beauty and Pristine Waters

Mata La Gata Cay’s turquoise waters are among the clearest and calmest in the region, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The surrounding coral reefs support a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasional rays. The island is part of a lush network of mangroves, creating a unique habitat where the intertwining roots of these coastal trees act as natural barriers and nurseries for marine species.

The large natural pool, surrounded by mangroves, offers a safe and tranquil environment for swimming, while the shallow, calm waters are perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. Experienced divers can challenge themselves with deeper dives on the eastern side of the cay, where the underwater terrain offers a dramatic drop into the depths, making it a favored spot for exploring vibrant coral reefs.

Activities and Adventure

For those seeking adventure, Mata La Gata Cay provides a range of activities. Snorkeling and diving are the most popular options, allowing visitors to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. The best times for these activities are early mornings, when the waters are at their calmest. For a unique experience, guided kayak tours navigate the tranquil waters, offering a peaceful way to reach the cay and explore nearby mangrove forests.

The island’s white sand beach is perfect for sunbathing, while its shallow waters make it safe for swimming. Recreational fishing is also a popular pastime here, with the tranquil setting providing an ideal backdrop for casting a line. The mangrove boardwalk offers a scenic walk through lush mangrove forests, giving visitors a closer look at these unique coastal ecosystems.

Unique Features and Facilities

Mata La Gata Cay stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for the practical amenities that enhance the visitor experience. It’s the only cay in the area with developed facilities, including restrooms, changing rooms, and a large natural pool surrounded by mangroves. The gazebos and picnic areas are perfect for family gatherings, while the barbecue and grilling stations allow visitors to enjoy a meal amidst nature. The island also offers a variety of water sports equipment rentals, including kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear, ensuring that everyone can find an activity suited to their interests and skill levels.

Due to its undeveloped nature, it’s important for visitors to be prepared. There are no restaurants or shops on the island, so it’s essential to bring all necessary supplies for the day. Maintaining the island’s pristine condition requires responsible behavior, including cleaning up after yourself and following any guidelines set by the DRNA.

Amenities and Services

• White Sand Beach: Soft, white sand beaches perfect for lounging and swimming.
• Bathrooms, Changing Rooms, and Showers: Convenient facilities for visitors.
• Large Fenced Natural Ocean Pool: A safe area for swimming and relaxation.
• Recreational Fishing: Tranquil waters provide a peaceful setting for fishing.
• Snorkeling and Diving Areas: Vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
• Boardwalk Through Mangroves: A scenic walk through a small mangrove forest.
• Gazebos and Picnic Areas: Sheltered spots for picnicking.
• Barbecue and Grilling Stations: Public facilities for meal preparation.
• Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Jet Skiing & Kiteboarding: Various water sports available.
• Hiking and Walking Trails: Scenic trails for exploration.
• Cabins for Day Use: Limited day-use accommodations for extended visits.

Tips for Visitors

Given the island’s natural beauty and limited amenities, it’s important for visitors to plan ahead. Bring essentials such as food, water, sun protection, and any necessary beach gear. Respecting the island’s environment is crucial; ensure you clean up after yourself and adhere to any guidelines established by the DRNA. This helps preserve the island’s pristine state for future visitors.

Getting There

Mata La Gata Cay is accessible only by boat. The nearby La Parguera in Lajas serves as the primary departure point for boat trips. Visitors have several options, including chartering a boat, renting a small motorboat, or joining guided kayak tours that offer an adventurous way to reach the island. The short boat ride offers an opportunity to soak in the stunning coastal views before arriving at this idyllic destination.

Rates

Several companies offer boat rentals, umbrella and beach chair rentals, and the sale and rental of water sports equipment.