Also known as Monkey Island, due to the more than 700 monkeys that freely roam the area, Santiago Key is located on the east coast of Puerto Rico, about 30 miles southeast of San Juan and 20 miles east of Caguas in an area known as Humacao.

Originally imported from India for research purposes, the surviving (and thriving) population of monkeys are protected, and as such, the University of Puerto Rico has restricted access to the island.

Despite the landing restrictions on Santiago Key, the surrounding waters are prime snorkeling grounds, and there are plenty of visitors to the island. The principal anchorage for the island is located on its western side in the lee of prevailing winds in seven-foot depths. As with any ocean anchorage, winds out of the wrong direction (south) can make the anchorage very uncomfortable or even dangerous.

If you are snorkeling here, keep in mid that you can swim close into shore to view the monkeys, but walking the beach is strictly prohibited.

See our “Local Notices to Mariners” blog for updates on the latest conditions and advisories for this area.

Guide to the Humacao Area