Located just eight miles east of mainland Puerto Rico, Vieques is a tropical paradise that’s known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back island vibe. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, this small Caribbean island has become a popular destination for travellers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking to relax on secluded beaches, explore the island’s vibrant flora and fauna, or immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine, Vieques has something to offer every type of traveller. In this travel guide, I’ll take a closer look at what makes Vieques such a unique and special destination, from its top attractions and hidden gems to its practical tips and recommendations for making the most of your visit. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the island of Vieques.

Location and How to Get There 

To get to Vieques, a small island located off the coast of Puerto Rico, you have a few options: by air and by sea. Flying there is the fastest, yet most expensive option – for such a short flight (25 minutes) the cost of the flight does seem quite high but you are paying for the convenience and potential to decrease your time spent in transit. Tickets for the ferry to Vieques cost just a couple of dollars but require a little bit of forward planning. 

By Air:

Most travellers will first fly to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico. From there, you can take a connecting flight to Vieques through one of two airlines that operate flights between San Juan and Vieques – Cape Air and Vieques Air Link (the latter of which departs from the smaller domestic airport in San Juan, Isla Grande SIG – so bear this in mind if you are flying in to San Juan on an international flight as you will need to change airports. Cape Air operates from SJU international airport and can therefore make for a more efficient travel day). The flight duration for both flights is approximately 25 minutes and offers unparalleled views of the Puerto Rican coastline. 

Another option is to fly to José Aponte de la Torre Airport (RVR) in Ceiba, Puerto Rico, which is closer to Vieques. From there, you can take a short flight with either Cape Air or Vieques Air Link to Vieques. This flight is just 10 minutes long. 

By Ferry:

Take a ferry from Fajardo: Fajardo is a town on the eastern coast of Puerto Rico. You can reach Fajardo by car or taxi from San Juan (about a 1-hour drive). The ferry service to Vieques is operated by the Puerto Rico Maritime Transportation Authority and tickets cost just a couple of dollars. There are a limited number of tickets sold online, the remainder are sold at the port on the day of departure.  The ferry ride takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on the type of ferry, and having read various reviews about this passage I would advise you to bring motion sickness pills if you suffer from travel sickness!

It is very important if you plan to take this route that you schedule a pickup from the ferry on your return journey ahead of time. There is little to no cell service at the port and certainly no internet. From asking around, a typical taxi fare from the port to San Juan costs around $90-100. Given the cost of taxis and extra time to get down to the port it’s worth weighing up your options as to whether your time and money would be better spent hopping on a puddle jumper from San Juan.

Places to stay 

Vieques offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether you seek the luxury of boutique hotels, the privacy of spacious private villas, or the affordability of budget-friendly hostels, Vieques has it all.

$$$ Finca Victoria – this wonderful boutique hotel offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. With its lush gardens, colonial architecture, and breathtaking views, this enchanting estate provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s charm. You won’t regret booking a stay here – there’s a reason it’s booked up multiple months in advance! 

$$ El Blok Hotel – a modern and stylish accommodation option that seamlessly blends contemporary design with the island’s vibrant spirit. With its chic rooms, inviting communal spaces, and a rooftop pool offering panoramic views, this boutique hotel provides a comfortable and memorable stay for guests seeking a trendy and immersive experience on the island of Vieques. The onsite restaurant is of particular interest! 

$ Vieques Guesthouse – offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a cozy and authentic stay on the island. With its charming Caribbean-style architecture, comfortable rooms, and friendly staff, this guesthouse provides a delightful home-away-from-home experience for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and beauty of Vieques.

There are also multiple vacation rentals listed on Airbnb and VRBO – I stayed in a fantastic one in Esperanza which had 3 bedrooms and a private pool – if you would like the link for it, please don’t hesitate to send me a message or shoot me a DM on Instagram! 

Places To Eat 

There are a multitude of different restaurants throughout Vieques, however I did notice that there are very few establishments open every day, and even fewer that are open on weekdays. It is worth checking online or by phone before making an outing to a particular restaurant. 

• Lazy Jack’s (Esperanza)  – this casual eatery is one of the few that is open every day and the kitchen is open until midnight, which makes it an excellent place to grab something to eat after a night time bioluminescence tour. 

• Tin Box – contemporary eatery which specializes in BBQ and sushi – not to be missed! 
• Casa Nativo – small charming restaurant in the centre of Isabel II – excellent drinks and food options, however service can take a while – but it is definitely worth it! 
• Placita (in El Blok hotel) – this is the restaurant of the upscale hotel in Esperanza and offers a delectable selection of menu choices in a contemporary and elegant setting. 

Places to drink 

• Duffy’s (Esperanza) –  widely acclaimed for its reputation of serving the most exceptional drinks in town. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in their famous “Beach Bum” cocktail, a tropical fish bowl creation that is perfect for sharing with a friend!
• Cafe del mar (Esperanza) – not only do they serve fantastic breakfasts (complete with mimosas!), but their drinks are fantastic. Be sure to try the peach margarita! Please note they are only open for breakfast and dinner (closed at lunchtimes).

Things To Do 

• The Bioluminescence Night Tour by Kayak is an absolute must-do when you’re visiting Vieques! It’s truly an incredible and unforgettable adventure that I never realised I needed until I experienced it. This unique excursion should definitely be on your bucket list! I booked with Jak’s Water sports and I am glad we did – the company was incredibly professional and informative during our tour. And on the day we had booked to go, it had started raining and all of the other tour groups cancelled apart from Jak’s – the rain turned out to be the best addition – it made for an even more magical experience as the algae was stimulated by every rain drop! 

• Rent a Car/ Golf Cart and drive around the island – This fantastic option allows you to effortlessly visit all the breathtaking beaches and indulge in the culinary delights of nearby towns.

• Visit Crab Island Rum Distillery – a unique and immersive experience in the world of rum production. Explore the distillery’s rich history, witness the craftsmanship involved in creating their premium rums, and indulge in tastings of their delicious and distinctive rum varieties. They are fortunate to have live music on certain days which is a fun addition . Check opening times as they are only open a select few days a week.

• Go beach hopping – there’s over 40 beaches in Vieques and you won’t be fighting for space on any of them (unlike many other islands in the Caribbean) – start your day at Playa La Chiva in the national park, then visit Caracas Beach. Black Sand Beach is worth visiting although not nearly as much black sand as I was expecting. Playa Esperanza is popular with locals and families due to its closest proximity to the pier, it’s worth watching the sunset from here – you won’t regret it. 

• Snorkel Tour – while you can snorkel from many of the beaches, there’s various your companies that will take you to the prime snorkelling spots by boat and ensure you see a wide variety of marine life from different areas 
• Horse Riding – there’s no shortage of horses on the island of Vieques, thanks to the numerous tour companies that provide this exhilarating experience. Whether you’re a complete novice or an expert rider, the tour companies will match you with a horse that suits your skill level and temperament. The guides and trainers are experienced professionals who take great care in ensuring that every rider feels comfortable and safe throughout the journey.

Getting around 

Getting around the small island of Vieques is relatively easy, and there are a few options available:

• Car or Golf Cart Rental: Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to explore Vieques. There are several car rental agencies on the island, both at the airport and in the towns of Esperanza and Isabel. Having a car gives you the freedom to visit different beaches, attractions, and remote areas at your own pace. It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. During my stay in Vieques, I chose to rent a golf cart for 24 hours which as my accommodation was within walking distance to most restaurants and tour companies, left more than enough time to explore the island. Golf cart rentals are generally more expensive than a car, but let’s face it, it’s more fun in a golf cart! 

• Taxi: Taxis are available on the island, and while they can be more expensive than renting a car, they are a good option if you prefer not to drive or need transportation for shorter distances. I would recommend setting up a taxi ahead of time if you are arriving at the airport or ferry terminal, especially if you are arriving later in the day. 

• Publicos: Publicos are shared mini buses or vans that operate on  specific fixed routes around the island. They are a cost-effective option for getting around Vieques, particularly if you’re travelling on a tight budget. Publicos usually operate during the daytime and have designated stops along their routes. You can flag them down or find them at the main towns and transportation hubs.

• Bicycle or Scooter Rental: Another alternative for getting around Vieques is to rent a bicycle or scooter. This option is suitable for shorter distances and can be a fun way to explore the island while enjoying the scenic views. Rental shops can be found in Isabel and Esperanza, the two main towns of Vieques.

It’s worth noting that while Vieques is a small island, some areas, especially the remote beaches, may have limited or no public transportation options. Having a car or arranging for transportation in advance will ensure greater flexibility and convenience during your visit.

General tips for Vieques 

• The grocery stores have limited (and expensive!) inventory – with a population of 3000 and the stores relying on boats to bring supplies in, it’s no wonder that you won’t find what you’d typically be able to find on the main island of Puerto Rico. If you’re staying for an extended period of time, consider taking the ferry across and bringing your groceries with you. 

• In Vieques, the ratio of horses to people is 3:1! Most of these horses are owned and given the freedom to wander around, which can lead to an exciting adventure when their owners decide to take them for a ride. If you’re not experienced with horses, I advise against approaching them or attempting to handle them.

• It’s important to note that not all restaurants and bars in Vieques are open every day, except for a few exceptions. Therefore, it’s advisable to verify the operating hours of an establishment before you embark on your visit. Personally, when I arrived on a Sunday, I found it particularly challenging to find a place that served food.

Vieques offers a truly unforgettable experience for travellers seeking a blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and tranquility. From its pristine beaches and bioluminescent bay to its charming guesthouses and delicious cuisine, Vieques has something to captivate every visitor. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a glimpse into the island’s unique history, Vieques is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression and create cherished memories. Plan your trip to Vieques today and embark on a journey of discovery and bliss in this Caribbean gem.

You can find out more about my trip to Vieques on my “Vieques” Highlights on Instagram @chase.the.rainbows.

Disclosure: chasetherainbows.com participates in affiliate advertising programs as a way to earn revenue. Some links to products and services are affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you click an affiliate link and finalize a purchase. Thank you for your support.