Vieques
Vieques is an island, town, and municipality in Puerto Rico located off its eastern coast – it has over 170 beaches along its 55 kilometers (34 miles) of pristine coastline, and its largely untouched shoreline features everything from bioluminescent bays including Bioluminescent Bay (or Mosquito Bay), to secluded coves, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, marine life tourists, and those seeking tranquility. Vieques is part of the Puerto Rican archipelago, which consists of the main island of Puerto Rico and over 140 smaller islands, islets, and cays. The main island covers 3,424 square miles, making it the third-largest island in the United States and the 82nd-largest globally. Among the smaller islands are Vieques, Culebra, Mona, Caja de Muertos, and Desecheo – and of these only the main island, Vieques, and Culebra only three islands are inhabited year-round:
The top beach destinations in Vieques include Sun Bay, Media Luna Beach, and Red Beach. Sun Bay is the most accessible and popular beach, offering soft sands, clear waters, and amenities like picnic areas and restrooms, making it ideal for families. Media Luna Beach is a more secluded spot, known for its shallow, calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Red Beach, also known as Playa Caracas, is famous for its striking red-hued sands and crystal-clear waters, providing a picturesque setting for a day at the beach.
Some of the most beautiful beaches on the island are on the eastern end (which is the former site of the Marine Base) that the Navy named Red Beach, Blue Beach, Caracas Beach, Pata Prieta Beach, La Chiva Beach, and Playa La Plata. At the far western tip (which is formerly the Navy Base) is Punta Arenas, which the Navy named “Green Beach.” The beaches are commonly listed among the top in the Caribbean for their azure waters and white sands.
For the last sixty years, two-thirds of the island was in control of the United States Navy which used it for bombing practices. In 2003, the Navy departed Vieques, and since then, it has become one of the newest and increasingly popular destinations in the Caribbean. The best time to visit Vieques for beach activities is from December to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant, perfect for exploring the island's natural beauty.
