La Parguera Nature Reserve protects the coastline, cays and reefs that surround the village. Established in 1979 and significantly expanded since, it stretches across Lajas, Guánica and Cabo Rojo and covers around 6,400 hectares of mangrove channels, seagrass beds, fringing reef and dry coastal forest.
Most visitors experience the reserve from the water, on a boat or kayak tour out to the mangrove cays. Kayaks are the better choice if you want to slip into the narrow channels between the mangrove roots, where juvenile reef fish, queen conch and sea stars are easy to spot. Bring polarised sunglasses, water and reef-safe sunscreen.