Discover the Charm of Vieques
Things to See & Do in Vieques
- Book a Tour – Make the most of your time with eco adventures, sailing trips, snorkeling or scuba diving excursions, horseback riding, or even a day of fishing on the water.
- Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay) – Recognized as the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, Mosquito Bay is a must-see. Kayak under the stars or glide across the water in an electric boat as microscopic organisms light up the night.
- Horseback Riding – Explore roling hils, lush landscapes, and coastal trails on a guided horseback ride—a unique way to see the island’s wilder side.
- Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach) – Reached by a short hike, this volcanic sand beach shimmers with a deep, otherworldly beauty. A must for photographers and nature lovers alike.
- Parque la Ceiba – Marvel at a 300-year-old Ceiba tree, revered for its cultural and historical significance. Its enormous roots and towering trunk make it one of Vieques’ natural landmarks.
- Vieques National Wildlife Refuge – One of the largest protected areas in the Caribbean, this refuge spans over 18,000 acres of former naval land. Today, it’s a sanctuary of lagoons, mangroves, trails, and breathtaking beaches such as Playa Caracas, Playa La Chiva, Playa La Plata, Ensenada Honda, and Pata Prieta. You’l also find the weathered ruins of the Puerto Ferro Lighthouse tucked within the refuge.
- Downtown Isabel Segunda – Just steps from the ferry terminal, the island’s main town is full of shops, restaurants, and galleries within easy walking distance. The central plaza offers shady benches and a glimpse of daily island life.
- Playa de los Muertos – Located at the end of Calle Muñoz Rivera, this convenient town beach is an easy walk from Isabel Segunda.
- Isabel Segunda Lighthouse – Climb uphill from the ferry terminal to visit this historic lighthouse. Be sure to call ahead for updated visiting hours: (787) 741-0060.
- Murals by Local Artists – Across the island, colorful murals brighten up walls at schools, public spaces, the coliseum, and Esperanza —each a celebration of local creativity.
- Novillo Trail – A scenic hike through lush terrain that rewards you with a peaceful, secluded beach at the end.
- Mount Pirata – At 987 feet, this is the island’s highest peak. The climb is challenging but the panoramic views of Vieques and the sea are unforgettable.
- Puerto Ferro Lighthouse Ruins – Explore the haunting remains of this 19th-century lighthouse while taking in dramatic coastal views.
- Esperanza Sugar Pier – A favorite for snorkeling, diving, or simply leaping into turquoise waters. This historic pier is alive with marine life and local energy.
- Sea Turtle Conservation with Ticatove – https://www.ticatove.org/trails is a non-profit that has a map of the island with various trails and walks described and i lustrated. Vieques is a critical nesting ground for endangered leatherback, hawksbil, and green sea turtles. Ticatove, a local conservation group, works to protect them while also studying bats, reptiles, and native plants. Volunteers often assist with monitoring nesting sites, and visitors can help simply by respecting the beaches, avoiding lights at night, staying clear of nests, and fo lowing posted guidelines.
- Historical Navy Bunkers – Scattered across Vieques, these stark concrete structures are reminders of the island’s decades-long role as a naval training ground.
- Vieques Conservation & Historical Trust – Located in Esperanza, this community center shares the island’s cultural and ecological story. Don’t miss its tiny but fascinating marine life aquarium—the smallest in the world.
- Puerto Ferro Archaeological Site – One of the oldest known archaeological sites in the Caribbean, where ancient remains were found among massive volcanic boulders.
- Restaurant Hopping – Savor fresh seafood, authentic Puerto Rican flavors, and creative island inspired dishes at eateries ranging from casual kiosks to fine dining.
- Bar Hopping – Discover lively spots across the island where tropical cocktails, local rum, and live music set the tone for an unforgettable night.
- Crab Island Rum Distillery – Taste artisan rum distilled right here on Vieques. Pair your sip with craft cocktails, live music, and a relaxed Caribbean vibe.
- Esperanza Malecón – This vibrant seaside promenade is perfect for dining, drinks, shopping, and soaking up stunning sunsets.
Bioluminescent Bay
(Mosquito Bay)
Recognized as the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world (according to the Guinness Book of World Records), making this a bucket list place to visit.
Cayo de Afuera
A small cay just off Esperanza’s Malecón, accessible by kayak or paddleboard. It’s a popular snorkeling stop, but avoid swimming due to boat traffic.
Kiani Lagoon
Kiani Lagoon on the road to Punta Arenas
View from Hike on Department of Natural Resources Land in Vieques
Looking toward Esperanza from a beach on the south side of Vieques
Caracas Beach
A wide, sandy beach with calm water and nine picnic gazebos complete with BBQ pits.
La Chiva
This nearly eight-mile shoreline offers many different pull-offs, each with its own personality. Some spots are shallow and kid-friendly, others are better for snorkeling or fishing.
Black Sand Beach
Reached by a short hike, this volcanic sand beach shimmers with a deep, otherworldly beauty. A must for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Mount Pirata
At 987 feet, this is the island’s highest peak. The climb is chalenging but the panoramic views of Vieques and the sea are unforgettable
Historical Navy Bunkers
Scattered across Vieques, these stark concrete structures are reminders of the island’s decades-long role as a naval training ground..
Puerto Ferro Archaeological Site
One of the oldest known archaeological sites in the Caribbean, where ancient remains were found among massive volcanic boulders.
Playuela
A short walk brings you to this secluded stretch, often empty despite its beauty. One side has surf for bodyboarding, while the other offers calmer water and views of the surrounding cliffs and lighthouse.
Parque la Ceiba
Marvel at a 300-year-old Ceiba tree, revered for its cultural and historical significance. Its enormous roots and towering trunk make it one of Vieques’ natural landmarks.
Vieques Beaches at a Glance
- Media Luna – Shallow, calm, and perfect for kids.
- Sun Bay – Wide sandy shore with facilities, shade, and roaming horses.
- Pata Prieta – Small, protected cove with gentle waves.
- La Plata – Some of the island’s best snorkeling right offshore.
- La Chiva – Multiple entry points with coral and fish.
- Cayo Blanco – Boat access only, home to rare coral species.
- El Gallito Reef – Colorful marine life below the bluff.
- Navío – Consistent waves and a photo-worthy cave.
- Playuela (east side) – Good surf breaks, scenic backdrop.
- La Chata – Local surfers’ hangout, but not for beginners.
- Playa Negra – Black volcanic sand, striking against turquoise water.
- Esperanza Sugar Pier – Historic charm with fishing & snorkeling.
- El Gallito at Sunset – Contrasting rocks, golden skies.
- Punta Arenas – Meeting point of Atlantic & Caribbean.
- Caracas – Gazebos with BBQ pits, ideal for group outings.
- Sun Bay – Shaded palms, showers, café, and camping area.
- Esperanza Beachfront – Food and drinks steps away.
- Playa Grande – Breezy shoreline, sea turtle nesting area.
- Sun Bay – Mile-long stretch perfect for strolling.
- Caracas – Spacious and open, with picnic gazebos.
- Rompeolas – A mile-long sea wall great for walking or jogging.
- La Plata – Remote, calm, and rarely crowded.
- Escondida – Tiny hideaway beach.
- Playuela – Requires a short hike, often empty.
- Tres Palmitas – Peaceful mangroves and calm waters.
- Esperanza Malecón & Sugar Pier – Watch the town come alive at dusk.
- El Gallito – West-facing, dramatic skies.
- Punta Arenas – Ocean views with golden light.
- Playa Grande – Sea turtle nesting grounds.
- Tres Palmitas – Mangroves and barracuda sightings.
- Ensenada Honda – Thriving coral reef & mangrove ecosystem.
- Playa Cofi (Sea Glass Beach) – Smoothed sea glass gems.
- Bastimento – Hidden sea glass and fused pieces.
- La Chata – Driftwood, shells, and tidal treasures.
- Puerto Mosquito – World’s brightest bioluminescent bay.
- El Parque de la Ceiba – 300-year-old sacred tree