Vieques Beaches

Location:

Blue Beach (La Chiva Beach), Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, Vieques Island, Puerto Rico

Recommended For:

Snorkelers, swimmers, beachcombers, couples, nature lovers, and those looking for pristine Caribbean seclusion.

What we Love:

Known officially as **La Chiva Beach**, Blue Beach is one of the most serene and stunning stretches of sand on Vieques. Nestled within the protected **Vieques National Wildlife Refuge**, it offers a mix of tranquility, natural beauty, and fascinating history—from its days as a U.S. Navy training area to its current role as a peaceful, biodiverse escape.

• Sunbathe on the soft, powdery sands with ample space to spread out and relax under the Caribbean sun.
• Swim and snorkel in the calm, turquoise waters—perfect depth and clarity for spotting tropical fish and coral.
• Explore the beach's unique background, including its former use by the U.S. Navy and preserved natural setting in a national refuge.

Cost:

Free access via the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. No entry fee, but vehicle access may require a permit, and a 4x4 is recommended for some roads.

Best time to visit:

December to April for dry, sunny weather. Weekdays are especially peaceful, as the beach rarely gets crowded.

Local tips:

Bring your own food, water, and shade—there are no services on-site. Arrive early to pick your favorite cove along the beach’s long, scenic curve. Don’t forget snorkeling gear for the eastern reef areas.

Distance:

Approximately 8 miles (13 km) southeast of Isabel Segunda, Vieques’ main town. About a 25–30 minute drive by car from most lodging areas.

How to Get to Blue Beach:

Travel by ferry or small plane from mainland Puerto Rico to Vieques. From there, rent a 4x4 vehicle and drive through the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge to reach Blue Beach (La Chiva). The road is unpaved but passable, and signs mark the numbered beach access points.

Location:

Media Luna Beach, Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, Vieques Island, Puerto Rico

Recommended For:

Families, couples, sunbathers, swimmers, photographers, and anyone looking for the perfect Caribbean day on the sand.

What we Love:

**Media Luna Beach** delivers the ultimate Caribbean experience with its crescent moon-shaped shoreline, soft white sands, and warm turquoise waters. The beach’s serene atmosphere and natural beauty keep visitors coming back time and again—it’s a flawless spot for swimming, tanning, and total relaxation.

• Swim in the warm, shallow waters that feel like a natural pool—ideal for children and casual floaters.
• Stretch out on the wide, sandy shoreline with plenty of room for solitude or socializing.
• Capture postcard-worthy photos of the gentle crescent bay and surrounding palms.

Cost:

Free public access through the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. No amenities on-site, so bring everything you'll need for the day.

Best time to visit:

December to April for ideal weather. Morning visits offer the calmest conditions and best lighting for photography.

Local tips:

Arrive early to secure your favorite spot under the trees for natural shade. Bring a cooler with drinks and snacks, plus reef-safe sunscreen and float gear for long swims in calm waters.

Distance:

Roughly 7 miles (11 km) southeast of Isabel Segunda, about a 20–25 minute drive through the refuge from most accommodations.

How to Get to Media Luna Beach:

After arriving on Vieques by ferry or plane, rent a car or 4x4 and drive into the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Media Luna is clearly marked and accessible via a dirt road. The area is remote but well worth the journey for those seeking pristine beach beauty.

Romantic Vieques Beaches:

Location:

Playa Caracas (Red Beach), Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, Vieques Island, Puerto Rico

Recommended For:

Families, photographers, beach picnic lovers, fashion shoot locations, and travelers seeking safe, calm waters with cinematic scenery.

What we Love:

Formerly known as **Red Beach**, **Playa Caracas** is one of Vieques’ most photogenic and beloved beaches. Its powdery white sand, gentle turquoise waves, and location within the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge make it a top choice for everything from family outings to fashion photoshoots.

• Swim in the calm, clear waters—perfectly safe for kids and casual swimmers.
• Set up a beach picnic on the wide, soft sand, with stunning views all around.
• Capture breathtaking photos—Playa Caracas is a favorite of photographers and brands for a reason.

Cost:

Free entry via the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Parking is available nearby and access is easy compared to some other refuge beaches.

Best time to visit:

December to April for great weather and low tide. Weekdays are less crowded and offer better photo opportunities without background visitors.

Local tips:

Bring an umbrella or portable shade—natural shade is minimal due to sparse vegetation. Pack your own drinks and snacks, as no services are available on-site. Early morning and golden hour are ideal for photography.

Distance:

Around 7 miles (11 km) southeast of Isabel Segunda, roughly a 20–25 minute drive from most parts of the island.

How to Get to Playa Caracas:

After arriving on Vieques by ferry or plane, drive or take a 4x4 through the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Playa Caracas is well-signposted and accessible by a dirt road. The parking lot is close to the beach, making access easy for families and photographers with gear.

Location:

Playa Negra (Playa Negrita), Vieques Island, Puerto Rico

Recommended For:

Couples, photographers, explorers, nature lovers, and those looking for a truly unique Caribbean beach experience.

What we Love:

Unlike the typical white sands of the Caribbean, **Playa Negra**—also known as **Playa Negrita**—is a rare and dramatic **black sand beach** tucked away on Vieques. With its deeply hued volcanic sands, striking contrast against turquoise waters, and quiet ambiance, this beach feels like a hidden world perfect for peaceful strolls and jaw-dropping photo ops.

• Walk barefoot along the dark, velvety sands, feeling the warm waves wash over your feet.
• Snap unforgettable contrast-filled photos that showcase Vieques' surprising geological variety.
• Soak in the romantic, secluded atmosphere ideal for couples and solitude seekers.

Cost:

Free public access. There are no facilities or services nearby, so come prepared.

Best time to visit:

December to April for comfortable weather and easier trail access. Go early in the day for solitude and cooler temperatures on the sand.

Local tips:

Wear walking shoes—reaching Playa Negra requires a short hike along a lush trail. Bring water, snacks, and a camera. It’s not ideal for swimming but excellent for photography and peaceful exploration.

Distance:

About 2.5 miles (4 km) southwest of Esperanza, roughly a 10-minute drive plus a 10-minute hike from the road.

How to Get to Playa Negra:

Drive west from Esperanza along Route 201, then take the marked turnoff for Playa Negra. Park near the trailhead and hike through a short, scenic forest path that opens up to the dramatic black sand beach.

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Location:

Punta Arenas Beach, Northwest coast of Vieques Island, Puerto Rico

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, snorkelers, swimmers, couples, photographers, and those seeking a secluded, tropical escape on Vieques’ lesser-visited north side.

What we Love:

Nestled on the northwest tip of Vieques, **Punta Arenas** is surrounded by lush palm groves and dense tropical vegetation, giving it a wild, remote vibe that feels like a private island getaway. It’s the best beach option on the island’s north coast, offering peaceful waters, incredible greenery, and abundant marine life.

• Swim in the calm, blue waters with gently sloping entry—great for relaxing and floating in the sun.
• Snorkel just offshore to explore reefs and coral patches filled with colorful tropical fish.
• Wander the scenic shoreline, flanked by palm trees on one side and the sparkling sea on the other.

Cost:

Free public access. No amenities are available, so visitors should bring their own gear and supplies.

Best time to visit:

December to April for dry weather and clear visibility for snorkeling. Early mornings are best for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Local tips:

Bring a picnic, snorkel gear, and reef-safe sunscreen. A 4x4 is recommended for the rugged drive through the northern part of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Cell service is limited, so plan ahead.

Distance:

About 10 miles (16 km) northwest of Isabel Segunda, roughly a 40-minute drive through remote refuge roads.

How to Get to Punta Arenas:

Enter the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge from the north side, following signs to Punta Arenas. The road is unpaved and can be rough—4WD recommended. Once there, follow a short trail from the parking area to the beach.