Catherine - Savvy Family TravelNestled in the Caribbean Sea, Vieques is a hidden gem off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, known for its bioluminescent bay, pristine beaches, and tranquil ambiance.
In this post, we’re sharing the best beaches in Vieques island, more to do in the area, and practical tips for visiting.
Best Beaches in Vieques Island
Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach)
This hidden gem is a striking departure from the typical white sands you might expect in the Caribbean.
As you make your way to Black Sand Beach, get ready for a mini-adventure. It’s tucked away on the southwestern coast of Vieques, and reaching it involves a short but scenic hike through a lush tropical forest. The trail might get a little muddy, so throw on some comfy shoes and embrace the adventure.
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the beach’s jet-black sand contrasting with the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. It’s like stepping into a surreal landscape straight out of a dream. And the best part? Since it’s a bit off the beaten path, you won’t be sharing the beach with many others!
While swimming might not be as calm here as at other beaches, the rugged beauty of Black Sand Beach more than makes up for it.
Parking: Do not park at the top of the staircase to the trailhead, there is a large parking lot just beyond this.
Sun Bay Beach
This was a favorite for our group. The beach was lined with mature palm trees making it highly photogenic but more importantly, shady.
If you’re dreaming of a beach day that feels straight out of a postcard, Sun Bay Beach on Vieques Island is where you need to be. This stunning stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters is the quintessential Caribbean escape.
If you have a compact hammock, you’ll want to bring it for this beach.
This is also the area where we spotted the most “wild” horses. Read on to the bottom of this post where I explain why I put “wild” in quotations.
Media Luna Beach
Tucked away in a secluded cove, this crescent-shaped paradise offers a serene escape from the more popular spots on the island.
As you arrive at Media Luna, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama of clear, shallow waters and soft, white sand. The beach gets its name—“Media Luna” means “half-moon” in Spanish—from its distinctive shape, which creates a perfect, natural swimming pool. The gentle waves and shallow depth make it an ideal spot for families with kids or anyone who just wants to float around and relax.
The vibe here is all about tranquility. You won’t find any beach bars or loud music, just the soothing sounds of the waves and the rustling of palm trees. It’s the perfect place to lay down your towel, set up a beach chair, and lose yourself in a good book or simply soak up the sun.
The calm, clear waters are perfect for spotting colorful fish. Make sure to bring your snorkeling gear—you won’t want to miss the underwater views!
This half moon beach is the ideal spot to bring the kids because of its shallow waters. This beach is located 5 minutes beyond Sun Bay and is reached via a VERY bumpy road. Our golf cart was struggling.
Sea Glass Beach
If you love collecting beach treasures, this is the best beach in Vieques island for you!
You won’t find large crowds here, making it a peaceful retreat where you can spend hours sifting through the sand for sea glass treasures. It’s a perfect spot for those who enjoy a bit of solitude and a slower pace.
The beach itself isn’t the best for swimming—it’s more rocky than sandy—but it’s great for a relaxing stroll. The shoreline is dotted with interesting rock formations and tidal pools that are fun to explore. Plus, the views of the ocean are simply stunning, especially at sunset.
Don’t forget to bring a bag or container for your sea glass finds, along with some sunscreen and water. There aren’t any facilities at Sea Glass Beach, so come prepared. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just looking for a unique experience, Sea Glass Beach on Vieques is a charming spot that offers a different kind of beach day. Happy hunting!
Esperanza Beach
I can’t round up the best beaches in Vieques island without mentioning the most developed of them all. This place is where the action is.
Begin your exploration in Esperanza with a stroll along the Malecón, a lively seaside promenade lined with colorful buildings, local shops, and inviting eateries. This is the heart of Esperanza, where you can soak up the island’s relaxed atmosphere and enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
If you’re spending the night, consider making Esperanza Beach your home base for exploring. Esperanza is a popular beach to start water sport activities or boat tours, so there’s tons to do in the area.
There are numerous restaurants, food stalls, and food trucks that line the main road next to the beach. Many spots offer fresh seafood, Puerto Rican specialties, and refreshing tropical drinks. Try a piña colada or a cold Medalla beer to truly immerse yourself in the island experience.
It’s the beach were its easiest to snag a restroom too!
Before you leave Esperanza, take some time to visit local markets and shops for souvenirs. Handcrafted jewelry, local art, and unique trinkets make for perfect mementos of your trip.
La Chiva Beach
Rounding out our list of the best beaches in Vieques island is La Chiva, also known as Blue Beach.
Getting to La Chiva is a breeze if you have a rental car. It’s part of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, so you’ll drive through some stunning landscapes to reach it. The beach is well-signposted, but make sure you bring everything you need since there aren’t any facilities nearby.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a long stretch of pristine, white sand and incredibly clear, turquoise waters. The water here is calm and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Bring your snorkeling gear because the underwater world at La Chiva is vibrant and teeming with colorful fish and coral.
La Chiva is divided into several sections, each marked by numbered spots along the beach. If you’re looking for a more private experience, keep driving until you find a less crowded area.
Other Things to Do in Vieques, Puerto Rico
While this post is focused on the best beaches in Vieques island, it offers a wealth of activities that go beyond sunbathing and swimming.
Here are the top things to do in Vieques that will give you a deeper appreciation for its natural beauty.
Bioluminescent Bay Tour
One of the most magical experiences Vieques has to offer is a nighttime tour of Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. The bay’s water glows with a mesmerizing blue-green light when disturbed, thanks to the high concentration of bioluminescent organisms called dinoflagellates.
Tour Tips:
- Booking: Make sure to book your tour in advance as this is a popular activity.
- Moon Phase: Check the lunar calendar; tours are best on moonless nights when the bioluminescence is most visible.
- Gear: Wear comfortable clothing and bring insect repellent.
- Read more in our full guide on the 3 Bio Bays in Puerto Rico.
Spot the “Wild” Horses
As you explore Vieques Island, Puerto Rico, you’ll be enchanted by the sight of graceful horses roaming freely across the open fields, along the beaches, and even in the streets.
These majestic creatures, often referred to as the “wild” horses of Vieques, add an extra layer of magic to the island’s allure. However, the term “wild” can be a bit misleading.
While they roam freely and appear to be wild, many of these horses do have owners. Local residents often let their horses graze and roam without restraint, contributing to the impression of wildness.
The horses of Vieques trace their roots back to the era of Spanish colonization. When the Spanish arrived in Puerto Rico in the early 16th century, they brought horses with them. Over time, these horses multiplied and became an integral part of the island’s landscape.
Best Spots for Horse Sightings:
- Vieques National Wildlife Refuge: This expansive refuge is a popular grazing ground for horses. As you hike or drive through the area, you’re likely to see herds grazing peacefully or galloping across the open spaces.
- Sun Bay Beach: The horses often wander onto the beaches, creating picture-perfect scenes of horses against the backdrop of turquoise waters.
Vieques National Wildlife Refuge
Spanning over 17,000 acres, the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The refuge is home to diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, lagoons, and subtropical dry forests.
Activities:
- Hiking: Explore the numerous trails that wind through the refuge, offering opportunities to see local flora and fauna.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for wild horses, migratory birds, and other wildlife that inhabit the area.
Practical Information
Getting to Vieques Island
Reaching this idyllic island involves a bit of planning, but the journey itself is part of the adventure. There are two main ways to get to Vieques from the main island of Puerto Rico: by ferry or by plane. Here’s everything you need to know about each option.
If Culebra is part of your Puerto Rico itinerary, you can also ferry or fly between Culebra and Vieques.
By Ferry
The ferry to Vieques departs from the town of Ceiba, located on the east coast of Puerto Rico. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, offering a scenic view of the azure waters and the surrounding islands.
Booking Your Tickets:
- Online Reservations: A certain percentage of ferry seats are available for online booking. It’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or weekends, as these spots can fill up quickly.
- At the Ticket Office: If online tickets are sold out, don’t give up hope! The ferry reserves some seats for walk-up passengers. Arriving early at the ticket office increases your chances of securing a spot.
Travel Tips:
- Timing: It’s wise to arrive at least an hour before the scheduled departure to ensure you have enough time for parking, purchasing tickets (if needed), and boarding early in line to snag the upper or lower level you want.
- Comfort: Bring snacks, water, and perhaps a light jacket or sweater, as the ferry can get chilly. If you’re prone to motion sickness, don’t forget remedies for the journey.
By Plane
For a quick and scenic option, flying to Vieques is an excellent choice. Multiple small airlines operate flights from San Juan and Ceiba airports directly to Vieques. The flight takes about 15 minutes and offers breathtaking aerial views of Puerto Rico’s coastline and the surrounding sea.
Booking Your Flight:
- Advance Purchase: Flights are around $50 per person each way, and booking in advance is essential, especially during busy travel periods. We booked ours online through Vieques Air Link.
- Passenger Weight: During booking, be prepared to provide each passenger’s weight. This information helps the airline ensure the plane is balanced correctly.
Be prepared, the plane is tiny, with room for only 1 pilot plus 6 passengers.
Travel Tips:
- Arrival Time: Plan to arrive at the airport 40-60 minutes before your flight. This allows sufficient time for check-in and any necessary preparations.
- No TSA Restrictions: Unlike larger commercial flights, there aren’t water restrictions like the TSA’s 3 oz rule. You can bring your favorite beverages and larger containers of sunscreen or toiletries.
Getting Around Vieques Island
If you’re planning a trip to explore the best beaches in Vieques Island, Puerto Rico, one essential piece of advice is to rent a vehicle. This small but stunning island is best explored on your own terms, and having a rental jeep, UTV, or Golf Cart will provide you with the freedom and flexibility to make the most of your visit.
Many of Vieques’ most beautiful beaches, such as Playa La Chiva, Playa Caracas, and Playa Navio, are located within the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. These beaches are often accessed via unpaved, rugged roads that require a sturdy vehicle. Without a rental car, reaching these pristine locations would be challenging, if not impossible.
Some Golf Cart/UTV companies required a minimum age of 12+. This may force your hand in considering a jeep rental for your time in Vieques if you’ll bringing young kids.
Save Best Beaches in Vieques Island for Later
Catherine – Savvy Family Travel
My favorite pastime is finding fun, interesting experiences to share with family and friends.
I’m a mom of two energetic and curious boys who have endless patience with my tendency to over plan activities on our family vacations. My tireless husband, Troy, provides comic relief, is our favorite photographer, and expert navigator.
I’m a firm believer that travel with kids doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. It can be affordable, epic, and, dare I say, even relaxing!
Are you a travel loving parent too? I’d love to meet you, please reach out via Messenger and say “hi!”