If you’re the type of traveler who likes to make your trips more meaningful, Puerto Rico offers plenty of ways to give back while you explore. Beyond its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, the island is home to a variety of ocean conservation activities that allow you to connect with nature on a deeper level.
Puerto Rico’s waters are home to coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests that support an incredible diversity of marine life, from sea turtles and tropical fish to endangered manatees. Like many marine ecosystems around the world, these habitats face growing threats from climate change, pollution and coastal development. By taking part in conservation activities during your visit, you can help protect these fragile environments while gaining a deeper appreciation for the ocean.
Whether you’re interested in protecting marine life, supporting local conservation efforts or simply learning more about the ecosystems you’re visiting, these ocean conservation activities can add purpose to your holiday. Here are a few ways you can get involved.
Meet Some Manatees
The Caribbean Manatee Conservation Center (El Centro de Conservación de Manatíes del Caribe) offers a behind-the-scenes tour in addition to an extended “Caretaker for a Day” program. Admission fees directly support research and rehabilitation for injured manatees, turtles and other local marine life.
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During your visit, you’ll learn how rescued manatees are cared for, rehabilitated and, when possible, released back into the wild. It’s a rare opportunity to see these gentle animals up close while supporting the critical work that helps protect their future.
Protect Sea Turtles
Take part in a Turtle Patrol with Para La Naturaleza. From late March through October, leatherback, green and hawksbill turtles visit Playa La Esperanza to nest.
Patrol starts at sunrise, when hatchlings are most likely to emerge. Volunteers locate nests, document activity and help the tiny turtles make it safely to the ocean.
Work ends around noon. Afterwards, you can enjoy some time on the beach, head back to San Juan or continue west to the diving areas of Aguadilla and Rincón.
The Marine Ecology and Sustainability Study Program for Students
High school students ages 14 or older can spend three weeks working on sustainability projects, such as coral reef restoration and mangrove conservation in Puerto Rico. Students work with local ecologists and other experts while exploring reefs and rainforests. Learn more about the marine ecology and sustainability study program.
When you love something, you want to take care of it. As divers, we have the knowledge and skills to give back to the ocean that gives us so much.
Use the conservation filter on the PADI Dive Shop Locator to find operators offering conservation-focused courses and underwater experiences. Click the button below, or visit the PADI Dive Shop Locator, then click on “All Filters” and choose “Conservation.”