Isla de Vieques ~

Vieques Island, one of the most romantic Caribbean islands and voted the best island in 2012.  Where is Vieques Island also known as Isla Nena or Little Girl Island? It is located just 8 miles off of the east coast of Puerto Rico and is easily reachable by plane or ferry boat.

Once you arrive on Vieques Island, you will feel as though you have traveled into the Caribbean of the past.  It is quiet, lush and uncrowded with the largest natural wildlife refuge.

If you are a U.S. resident and flying direct from the U.S to San Juan, Puerto Rico traveling on to Vieques, no passport is necessary. 

Island History ~

The island is best known as the place where a series of protests were held against the U.S Navy and its use of the island.  The U.S Navy used the island as a bombing range and testing ground and they left the island in 2003.  The land that was used by the Navy is now the largest natural wildlife refuge with lots of incredible white sand beaches with crystal clear, azure blue water.

Wondering what to do while on Vieques?  The island has hiking, horseback riding, kayaking the mangroves, mountain biking on the nature trails, rent a jet-ski fo some fun, sailing, snorkeling, diving and paddleboarding. 

Visit the town of Isabel Segunda, the only town on the island.  The population is about 10,000 where everyone has a cell phone but there are no traffic lights and horses and iguanas roam free. You will find no casinos, no strip mall centers or large shopping centers on the island.  Isabel Segunda has a two banks, two ATM machines, a pharmacy and a post office.  This is one of the best places to dine on traditional food and meet the warm and friendly people of Vieques Island.

The island also has the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay, Puerto Mosquito.  It really is a must see.  Kayak on the bay under a moonless night and see the water glow with each paddle of the boat.  These bays are magical and really something you must experience.

Beaches ~

The beaches on the island are postcard perfect and gorgeous.

• Playa Negrita is the black sand beach on the island.  A bit hard to find, but well worth it for a nice romantic walk.  Rumor has it some of the locals don’t know where it is.
• Esperanza Beach, perfect for snorkeling.  A great beach to walk the strip at sunset to watch the sun dance on the water around the colorful fishing boats.
• Navio Beach, if you enjoy climbing and discovering caves or body surfing and boogie boarding, you will want to find this beach.
• Mosquito Pier and Rompeolas, here you can walk a mile over the water, enjoy fishing, snorkeling, jogging or walking.  It is also a great spot for diving and night fishing.

If you want some relaxing time at the spa, the luxurious ,AWAY at the W Retreat is the best spot to relax and rejuvenate.

Will you need a rental car while visiting Vieques?  That is up to you… the island is very small so you really can see it by scooter or public transportation.  But the best beaches are not accessible unless you rent a car or jeep.  Driving around the island can be so much fun and will get you to the more secluded beaches that aren’t reachable by public transportation.

Vieques Island, another quiet, secluded spot in the Caribbean away from the hustle and bustle and the cruise ship crowds where you truly can get away.  Are you ready to slip into these shoes and explore your own private beach?

Travel Safe!