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Caja de Muertos, Puerto Rico

Location of Caja de Muertos

Located some 5 miles south of Ponce, Caja de Muertos is a small, uninhabited island in the Caribbean Sea known for its natural beauty, historic lighthouse, and protected coastal environment. Approximately 4.8 nautical miles from the mainland, the island measures about 2.75 kilometers (1.7 miles) long and forms part of one of Puerto Rico's important marine and coastal nature reserves.

The Caja de Muertos Natural Reserve, established in 1980, includes the main island, nearby cays such as Morrillito and Berbería, and surrounding waters. The reserve protects beaches, mangroves, rocky coastlines, dry forests, and marine habitats.

Caja de Muertos
Caja De Muerto, photo by Diario Uno

History and the Island's Name

The name "Caja de Muertos, meaning "Coffin Island," is commonly associated with the island's unusual silhouette. Viewed from certain points along Puerto Rico's southern coast, its shape is said to resemble a person lying on a plateau or inside a coffin.

The island also has a history shaped by maritime travel, folklore, and Puerto Rico's colonial past. Stories of pirates and hidden treasure have long been associated with Caja de Muertos. The island's historical record also includes references to caves, petroglyphs, and its use as a temporary meeting place by nineteenth-century political figures.


Caja de Muertos Lighthouse

One of the island's most distinctive landmarks is the Caja de Muertos Lighthouse (Faro de la Isla de Caja de Muertos), which began operating on August 15, 1887, during the Spanish colonial period.

Built near the island's highest point, the lighthouse helped vessels navigate the waters approaching the busy port of Ponce. Its neoclassical design features a central cylindrical tower and a single-story building that once housed lighthouse keepers and essential equipment.

The lighthouse was automated in 1945 and is recognized for its architectural and maritime significance. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981.


Nature and Wildlife

Despite its relatively small size, Caja de Muertos supports a variety of coastal ecosystems. Its landscape is characterized by dry, thorny vegetation, sandy beaches, rocky shores, and areas of mangrove habitat.

The surrounding reserve provides habitat for resident and migratory seabirds, including brown pelicans, frigatebirds, gulls, and other coastal species. Its waters and beaches are also important to marine life.

The island's protected status helps conserve these natural resources while highlighting the importance of responsible recreation and habitat preservation.


Beaches and Outdoor Activities

Caja de Muertos is especially known for Playa Pelícano, a beach celebrated for its clear Caribbean waters and natural surroundings. The beach has received recognition for environmental quality and conservation.

When conditions and access permit, the island offers opportunities to enjoy its coastal scenery, observe birds, and explore its natural environment. Snorkeling, swimming, and hiking have traditionally been among the activities associated with visits to the island.

Visitors should respect protected areas, avoid disturbing wildlife, and carry away all trash to help preserve the reserve.


Planning a Visit

Access to Caja de Muertos is limited and subject to change. The island's public infrastructure, including its former ferry dock and visitor facilities, suffered damage associated with the 2020 earthquakes, and restoration work has been under consideration.

Although visitors continue to arrive by private boats and other watercraft, travelers should not assume that regular public ferry service, visitor facilities, guided lighthouse access, or other services are available.

Before planning a trip, confirm current transportation options, permitted landing areas, weather and sea conditions, and applicable rules with the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA) or an authorized local operator.

Did You Know?

Caja de Muertos became a protected natural reserve on January 2, 1980.
The designation protects not only the island itself but also nearby cays and surrounding marine habitats, recognizing the area's ecological importance to Puerto Rico's southern coast.


Frequently Asked Questions About Caja de Muertos

Where is Caja de Muertos located?
Caja de Muertos is an uninhabited island in the Caribbean Sea, approximately five miles south of Ponce, Puerto Rico. It forms part of the Caja de Muertos Natural Reserve, which includes nearby cays and surrounding marine habitats.

Why is it called Caja de Muertos?
The name Caja de Muertos translates to "Coffin Island." One traditional explanation suggests that the island's shape resembles a person lying down or a coffin when viewed from a distance. Other stories and legends have also been associated with the name.

Can you visit Caja de Muertos?
Visits may be possible by private watercraft, but public facilities and transportation services have been affected by infrastructure damage. Visitors should confirm current access conditions, landing restrictions, and available services with the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources before planning a trip.

What is Caja de Muertos known for?
The island is known for its historic lighthouse, Playa Pelícano, dry coastal landscape, and protected natural habitats. Its surrounding waters and beaches are also important to the island's ecological character.

When was the Caja de Muertos Lighthouse built?
The Caja de Muertos Lighthouse began operating in 1887 during Puerto Rico's Spanish colonial period. It was constructed to help guide vessels approaching the port of Ponce and remains an important part of the island's maritime heritage.

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Did You Know?

Old San Juan's blue cobblestones were originally ballast from Spanish ships.