Isla de Vieques is part of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. And a part of the Spanish Virgin Islands. An offshore island that is located 13 miles east of the main island. It fronts the Caribbean to the south and Vieques Sound on the north. Which connects the Caribbean with the Atlantic Ocean.
The main settlement, Isabel Segunda, is located in the north. Also, Esperanza is a fishing village on the south coast. On Vieques, you will experience the true meaning of tropical bliss. Uncrowded, quiet with unbelievable natural beauty. It is home to Mosquito Bay. The brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. In addition, you will find the largest Natural Wildlife Refuge in the Caribbean.
Enjoy underwater adventures in crystal clear waters. But the fun does not stop at sunset. The magic continues with a bioluminescent tour. Then finish the day with a superb dinner. Stargaze from a rooftop terrace.
Weather
Isla de Vieques offers year-round balmy weather. Average temperatures range in the ’80s. It makes a great vacation destination any time of the year. The winter and early spring are the most popular times to visit. While May, October, and November are ordinarily the months with the most rain. But the rain showers usually only last a short while and occur in the afternoon.
Plenty of time to spend precious time on the beach. As well as exploring numerous watersports activities. However, be mindful of the hurricane season. Most hurricanes appear to affect this archipelago in August and September. Water temperatures range from 77° F in January to 83° F in August. In other words, you can enjoy the sea year-round.
Fun water sports activities on luxurious motor yacht Angeleyes
Places to See Isla de Vieques
Fortin Conde de Mirasol – The place to start your vacation on Vieques. Above all, learn about the island’s history. Built between 1845 and 1855. It is the last Spanish Fort built in the Americas. In addition, enjoy some of the best views on the island. Scenic views include the main island of Puerto Rico and Culebra.
Punta Mulas Lighthouse – A beautifully restored lighthouse is now a small museum. Situated on a hill north of the town of Isabel Segunda. Enjoy fascinating vistas of Isabel II. Also, colorful fishing boats and the north shore of Vieques.
Vieques National Wildlife Refuge – Considered one of the most ecologically diverse wildlife refuges in the Caribbean. It contains beaches, coastal lagoons, and forested areas. As well as mangrove wetlands. In addition to being home to endangered plants and animals. Furthermore, the Antillean manatee and four species of sea turtles.
Look for a Green Turtle while snorkeling
Things to Do
Explore the beaches of Vieques– Playa Caracas, with its gentle waves, is a family-friendly beach. Playa Chiva (Blue Beach) is the beach for you if you love taking long walks on the beach. Another beautiful beach is Playa La Plata. It also offers you a feeling of total seclusion. Then Playa Negra, an amazing black sand beach.
Snorkeling – Ask the crew of your chartered yacht for the snorkel equipment. If you love snorkeling over crystal clear water with all shades of blue, La Chiva. La Esperanza Beach is one of the most popular spots. You will see plenty of tropical fish besides manta rays and sea turtles. Pata Prieta Beach, inside the National Wildlife Refuge, has some of the best snorkeling.
Diving – Vieques offers excellent diving year-round. Excellent visibility. At some dive sites, down to 100 feet. Furthermore, you will swim with turtles. In addition to spotted eagle rays and possibly the Antillean manatee. Isla Chiva is a very popular site for diving. The crew of your chartered yacht will arrange the necessary equipment for you. And certainly, help you with this activity.
Excellent diving opportunities on Isla de Vieques
Kayaking – This is a must! Kayak in magical Mosquito Bay. This bioluminescent bay was officially declared the brightest in the world. By the Guinness Book of World Records in 2008. It is, as a matter of fact, a unique, unforgettable experience for the whole family. Swimming in warm water after dark makes your body glow white.
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) – An abundance of tranquil bays makes Isla de Vieques a perfect destination for SUP.
Horseback riding– Viequenses especially love horses. Friendly tour guides will make this an unforgettable adventure for you. You will see Paso Fino horses roam free all over the island.
Gastronomical Highlights
Native foods and drinks
Alcapurrias – Fried fritter made of green bananas and grated yautia (taro root). Often stuffed with crab, shrimp, or lobster.
Mofongo – The main ingredient is fried green plantains. They are mashed with salt, garlic, and broth. Occasionally filled with vegetables or meat.
Bacalaitos – Fried salt cod fritters. Very tasty.
Tostones – Fried, flattened, and then fried again green plantains. Often served as appetizers and side dishes.
Lechon Asado – A spit-roasted suckling pig.
Pina Coladas – The official drink of the island since 1978. Made with pineapple, cream de coconut, and rum.
Notable Restaurants on Isla de Vieques
El Quenepo – Esperanza. Oceanfront restaurant serves American, Caribbean, Puerto Rican, and Seafood. The menu consists mainly of seafood dishes based on the day’s catch.
Bili – Esperanza. Caribbean, Puerto Rican, Seafood. Creative cuisine and drinks. Open from 9 am to 3 pm.
Duffy’s – Esperanza boardwalk area, right on the beach. American, Caribbean, and very fresh seafood. Vieques’ most popular hangout. Indeed, have a Bushwacker or Duffy’s punch to go with your fish taco.
El Guayacán – Authentic Puerto Rican food. Casual family-style restaurant. Outdoor seating with ocean view.
Bananas – Esperanza. American, Caribbean, and Puerto Rican, Seafood. Every table looks out to the ocean.
Marinas and Anchorages
Marinas
Vieques does not offer marinas or moorings. Fajardo and Palmas de Mar on mainland Puerto Rico have some excellent marinas.
Anchorages on Isla de Vieques
Since the US Navy had control of Vieques for 50 years, it often used the eastern end of the island for target practice. Therefore, that part is “off-limits”. Because of the possibility of lots of unexploded pieces of ordnance lying around. Cleanup efforts are expected to continue until 2032.
Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) does not recognize Puerto Rico and the Spanish Virgin Islands as the same CBP region as the USVI. Therefore, you will need to clear with them coming from or going to the USVI.
Esperanza – Depth is shallow here. In addition, the grassy bottom can be a challenge when anchoring. All mooring balls are private. We do, however, highly recommend them if any are available.
Punta Arenas (Green Beach) – Northwest tip of Vieques. It is part of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. The sandy point at the end of the beach is a popular anchorage for boats.
Sun Bay – East of Esperanza. The holding is good. And also a shelter on the east side of the bay.
Ensenada Honda – Esperanza. Excellent hurricane hole. Moreover, calm anchoring at the head of the bay. Anchor in seagrass. The water is murky, however.
CONTACT US at (321) 777-1707 to book your Vieques and Spanish Virgin Islands Yacht Charter
