The Best Beaches in Vieques, Puerto Rico
Vieques is home to some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in Puerto Rico. This local beach guide highlights Black Beard Sports’ favorite beaches in Vieques, including the best spots for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Sun Bay Beach is one of Vieques’ most popular and accessible beaches, known for its wide stretch of soft sand, calm turquoise waters, and beautiful sunsets. Located near Esperanza, it’s ideal for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a classic Caribbean beach day.
Media Luna Beach in Vieques is a beautiful, crescent-shaped beach with calm, clear waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming, and families. Known for its gentle surf and scenic setting, Media Luna offers a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere just a short drive from Esperanza, making it a favorite spot for both relaxing beach days.
Caracas Beach is one of Vieques’ most stunning and popular beaches, known for its wide shoreline of soft white sand and clear turquoise waters framed by lush hills and rocky outcrops. It’s located inside the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, picnicking, and relaxing under shaded gazebos. The beach’s gentle water near the shore makes it great for families, while the larger bay and natural surroundings create a classic Caribbean beach experience. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, as there are limited on-site services beyond picnic shelters and trash bins.
La Chiva Beach is one of Vieques’ most famous and breathtaking beaches, located within the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Offering a scenic, postcard-worthy setting as it's known for its crystal-clear blue waters, long stretches of sand, and excellent snorkeling, it offers a more natural, undeveloped beach experience perfect for those seeking beauty and tranquility.
Punta Arenas Beach is a peaceful, scenic spot on Vieques’ western coast, known for soft sand and calm waters. Always check for rip currents before swimming, and learn about snorkeling tours nearby to explore the area’s vibrant marine life.
Playa Gallito in Vieques is a small, tranquil beach known for its clear, calm waters and soft sand, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. Located on the southern coast, it’s less crowded than some of the more popular beaches, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy the natural beauty of Vieques. Its gentle shoreline also makes it a good choice for families
Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach) in Vieques is a unique and striking beach known for its dark volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. Located on the island’s southern shore, it’s a more secluded spot ideal for visitors looking to experience a dramatic, off-the-beaten-path beach.
Vieques Beach FAQs
Are all beaches in Vieques easy to access?
Some beaches in Vieques are easily accessible, while others require a short walk or a high-clearance vehicle. Many of the island’s most beautiful and secluded beaches are located on unpaved roads or within the wildlife refuge. Because public transportation and taxis do not reach all beaches, renting a vehicle is highly recommended so you can explore the island freely and access more remote locations at your own pace.
Are Vieques beaches safe for swimming?
Conditions vary by beach and weather. Always check conditions and use caution, as most beaches do not have lifeguards.
Always check for rip currents or ask us about conditions we are always checking
Are the beaches protected?
Many beaches are part of protected natural areas—help us preserve them by respecting wildlife, packing out everything you bring (including trash), and leaving shells and natural treasures in place for others to enjoy.
What facilities are available on the beach?
Most Vieques beaches are remote and unguarded. Check ocean conditions, bring water and sun protection, respect wildlife, and always pack out what you bring.
Are there more beaches in Vieques?
Yes! Vieques is home to many more beaches than those listed here. This guide highlights some of the most popular and accessible beaches, but we encourage you to explore the island—there are countless other beautiful beaches waiting to be discovered.
How should I protect myself from the sun?
With skin cancer rates increasing, we encourage the use of reef-safe sunscreen and sun shirts to protect both your skin and the fragile marine environment. At our retail store, we also sell these products and offer beach umbrellas for sale or rentto help keep you shaded while you enjoy the beach.
Looking to explore more of Vieques?
Join one of our guided tours or ask our local team for personalized recommendations during your visit
*We strongly recommend that all visitors to Vieques purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance helps protect you against unexpected delays, medical emergencies, weather disruptions, and trip interruptions while traveling to the island.
