Learn about this island’s fascinating past and explore the stunning secluded beaches on the coastline around the national wildlife refuge.
Vieques Island is an exotic place with an intriguing history and countless beaches. Explore the coves and caves of the dramatic coastline wrapping around this small islet.
Get a sense of the local culture and history by exploring the administrative center of Isabel II. Buy lobster, conch and other seafood at the Fish Market. Visit the 19th-century colonial treasure of El Fortín de Conde Mirasol, the last fort constructed by the Spanish in the Americas. Browse various exhibits that reveal the region’s marine past at El Faro de Punta Mulas lighthouse.
Rent a car and drive south for 15 minutes to get to Esperanza, a delightful town of markets and guest lodges. Visit the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust to understand local history and stroll along the romantic Malecón coastal promenade.
Take advantage of the year-round warm weather in this exotic part of the world, with a trip to the many beaches decorating the island. Expect rainy weather from August to November. In the eastern outskirts of Esperanza is popular Sun Bay, which has a restaurant and several other amenities.
For more secluded options, delve into the coastal parts of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Here, you will find utter tranquility and isolation at Caracas Beach, Pata Prieta Beach and La Chiva Beach.
Note that the island is also known by locals as Little Girl Island and was referred to by British colonists as Crab Island. Internationally, the island is famous for its series of protests against the U.S. Navy’s use of the site as a bombing range.
The island is a little east of the main island of Puerto Rico. Get here via one of the regular ferries from Fajardo to the Vieques Ferry Terminal in Isabel II. The boat trip takes about 75 minutes. Get around the island by taxi or rent a car.
Vieques Island offers an ideal vacation spot, with a range of historic sights and relaxing sandy havens.