Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Dream Getaway in Vieques, Puerto Rico

In Vieques, lush tropical hillsides are uninterrupted by traffic lights, leading to some of the Caribbean's finest beaches. Wild horses roam freely, waves sparkle with bioluminescence, and stunning black sands greet visitors on this timeless Caribbean paradise.

It's no surprise that Vieques consistently ranks among the top Caribbean islands in the annual Dinogo readers' poll.

Vieques, just six miles off Puerto Rico's coast, is part of this U.S. territory yet offers a distinctly different experience. Sylvia DeMarco, founder of the boutique hotel Finca Victoria nestled in the island's lush landscape, says, "Puerto Rico buzzes with energy and vibrancy, but Vieques delivers a deep connection to nature and unparalleled relaxation."

With improved flight options to the Caribbean, getting to Vieques has never been easier—U.S. travelers don’t need a passport. Discover essential tips for planning your getaway to this tranquil island that feels worlds apart.

Top Hotels and Resorts

Unlike Puerto Rico, Vieques lacks chain hotels and beach resorts, which only enhances its charm. Instead, visitors can enjoy cozy guesthouses and a variety of new boutique properties that provide a close-knit experience with the island.

Finca Victoria

Set on a verdant hilltop in Vieques, Finca Victoria is a contemporary retreat that harmonizes beautifully with nature. This boutique hotel features 14 rooms, including tree houses, cabins, and a vintage Airstream, all adorned with a refreshing Caribbean vibe, suitable for both brief getaways and extended ayurvedic retreats. It even earned a spot on T+L's list of the best new hotels in the world in its inaugural year.

El Blok

With the relaxed vibe of a Caribbean getaway and the sophistication of a modern design hotel, El Blok is just steps away from the beach and the lively oceanfront promenade in Esperanza. Its rooftop pool and bar boast sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea, making it one of the prime spots in Vieques to enjoy a sunset with a drink in hand.

Hacienda Tamarindo

Experience breathtaking ocean views and refreshing tropical breezes at Hacienda Tamarindo, a charming bed-and-breakfast perched above the southern shores of Vieques. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool and a delicious tropical breakfast, but it's the warm hospitality and family-friendly atmosphere that truly make this place special.

Things to Do

Kayak in the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay.

The highlight of Vieques is undoubtedly Mosquito Bay, where glowing plankton illuminate the waters, creating a stunning spectacle in what is deemed the world's most vibrant bioluminescent bay. Local guides lead kayaking tours through these magical waters, attracting many visitors who come specifically for this enchanting experience, though it’s just one of the island’s many natural treasures.

Sail, swim, and snorkel.

Exploring the waters is the ultimate way to discover Vieques. The island boasts a variety of unique diving spots, making it a paradise for PADI-certified divers. Local experts recommend Angel Reef, known for its nearly untouched coral and the intriguing sight of ancient Spanish anchors nestled in the rocks.

Hit the beach.

Even the most picturesque beaches on the island remain largely uncrowded during peak season. DeMarco suggests visiting Punta Arenas on the northwest coast and Caracas Beach, which has been recognized on T+L's list of the best beaches in the Caribbean. No trip to Vieques is complete without a stop at the aptly named Playa Negra, known for its striking jet-black sand, which sets it apart from the island's soft white beaches.

Taste local rum.

A visit to the Caribbean wouldn't be complete without enjoying the local rum. Visit Crab Island Rum Distillery, the first artisan rum distillery on Vieques, which offers tastings of its local spirits. Tours are available, and the distillery shop is open Thursday through Saturday from 12 to 8 p.m. Saturdays are particularly lively with live music events.

Reset on a wellness retreat.

Finca Victoria offers more than just stunning boutique accommodations; it is the Caribbean's first and only ayurvedic retreat space. Their personalized panchakarma retreats last between 7 to 10 days for a transformative experience, but the spa also welcomes non-guests for massages, herbal baths, and Chinese medicine therapies.

Best Restaurants

El Quenepo

Situated on the beachfront in Esperanza, El Quenepo is one of the few fine dining options available in Vieques. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and offers a relaxed, open-air atmosphere with views of the Caribbean Sea. Open Tuesday through Saturday, reservations are essential.

Placita

The restaurant Placita at Hotel El Blok is highly regarded in Vieques. Executive chef Alex Espinal curates a menu of modern Puerto Rican dishes that shifts regularly based on the freshest daily catch and local ingredients. Open from Thursday to Monday, it's advisable to make a reservation.

Tin Box

Concealed behind a simple corrugated steel exterior, Tin Box is a local favorite that offers an unexpected blend of tasty barbeque and fresh sushi. This unique combination draws a crowd to this roadside gem. Don’t miss Calypso nights on Mondays during high season, which are among the best live music events on Vieques.

Bananas

Situated along the seaside walkway in Esperanza, Bananas embodies the relaxed beach dining experience that every traveler seeks on a Caribbean getaway. Classic Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo are standout items, while fresh favorites such as fish tacos and coconut flan add to the appeal.

Areas To Visit

"To truly grasp the island's distinct landscape and history, one must delve into its past," explains DeMarco. In the 1940s, the U.S. Navy converted nearly half of Vieques into a naval base, leaving the local population with a limited area in the central part of the island. "This created a vibrant and densely populated central region, flanked by two stunning, undeveloped ends—an arrangement that still exists today."

Vieques National Wildlife Refuge

After the U.S. Navy ceased operations on Vieques in 2001, the abandoned lands became the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Covering nearly half the island, this refuge is celebrated as the most ecologically diverse wildlife haven in the Caribbean. "The beaches here remain largely untouched and remarkably pristine, a small silver lining from a tumultuous past," notes DeMarco.

Esperanza

Nestled on Vieques' southern coast, Esperanza is a charming town packed with activities and sights. The oceanfront walkway, known as the malecón, serves as the town's centerpiece, featuring some of the island's finest beachfront dining options along with a collection of quaint guesthouses and stylish hotels like El Blok. Its close proximity to top beaches and the stunning bioluminescent Mosquito Bay makes Esperanza an ideal hub for visitors.

Isabel Segunda

Isabel Segunda, located on the northern coast, serves as the administrative center of Vieques. It houses the island's airport and ferry terminal, making it the primary entry point for most visitors. While Isabel Segunda offers a variety of shops and amenities, many travelers typically pass through en route to Esperanza and the southern beaches.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Vieques is from December to April, when you can expect pleasant breezes, sunny skies, and crystal-clear waters. Although this period is the peak tourist season, locals assure that Vieques doesn’t feel overcrowded like other Caribbean destinations. Prices may be higher, but the vibrant atmosphere and perfect weather make it worthwhile.

From May to August, you might encounter more rainy days, but this quieter and more affordable shoulder season is still a great time to explore. During these months, you'll mainly see locals from Puerto Rico, who appreciate the beauty of this time on Vieques.

September and October mark the island’s low season, coinciding with the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. Prices are at their lowest during this time, but many restaurants and hotels may close for renovations, maintenance, or a well-deserved break during these quieter months.

How to Get There

All travel to Vieques begins in Puerto Rico, whether you choose to arrive by air or by sea.

Ferries to Vieques depart from the quaint town of Ceiba, which is approximately an hour and a half east of San Juan. The ferry ride takes about 35 to 45 minutes and operates several times daily between the islands.

Vieques also features a small airport, providing a convenient travel option with quick flights from San Juan. Cape Air offers direct flights from Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, making these the top choice for travelers heading straight to Vieques. Alternatively, you can fly with Vieques Air Link from the smaller Isla Grande Airport, which is just a 10-minute drive from the international airport.

For a more private experience, consider chartering a catamaran or yacht to the island, whether from Puerto Rico or neighboring Caribbean islands. Dream Yacht Worldwide provides charters to Vieques from nearby St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Enjoy your days discovering the stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters of Vieques before heading to other nearby destinations like Culebra, famous for its breathtaking Flamenco Beach.

How to Get Around

With no Ubers and only a few taxis available, visitors to Vieques should plan to rent a car to truly explore the island. Be prepared to share the roads with golf carts and bicycles, which can also be rented, though they may be more challenging to maneuver on the hilly terrain of central Vieques.

Locals advise that it's best to rent a 4x4 vehicle to access the island's more secluded spots effectively. Some of the top beaches, particularly those in the Vieques National Wildlife Reserve, can be difficult to reach without a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Reliable car rental options on the island include Martiza's Car Rental and Vieques Car Rental. It’s recommended to secure a rental car well in advance of your visit, ideally at the same time you book your accommodations. This is particularly important during high season, as car rental companies often sell out during the busiest months in Vieques.