Some say a beach is a beach; if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all. Others know differently. Of course, the beaches of Puerto Rico are indescribable, but some of the beauty is their dare to be different. Some beaches have a personality all their own, just like the people who visit them do. You may be in the mood for snorkeling or scuba diving. Or, you may want to sit and look, hear, and see a whole lot of nothing. Sometimes, the beach you choose needs to match the mood you are in so that it may provide the experience you want.
A little more than a decade ago, the Navy transferred all of the land previously used for practice purposes to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who now protect this land. Many of the beaches are public use beaches now. Although Vieques is a small island in and of itself, there are many beaches for you to enjoy. All you have to do is pick which one is your favorite and enjoy.
Sun Bay Beach
If you are traveling to Vieques with a family, then Sun Bay Beach may be your first and best choice. Sun Bay Beach is perfect for swimming, is an absolutely gorgeous bay and has facilities and a campground. All of these amenities make Sun Bay Beach ideal for you and your family.
If you are staying in Puerto Rico and want to escape the tourist attractions and just relax for a day, you can either fly over to Vieques or take the ferry. When you arrive at Sun Bay, you will think you stepped into a picture postcard.
Media Luna
Again, this is another excellent choice for those traveling with families; however, this might be a better selection for those with younger children, as the bay is shallower. You can walk quite a bit into the water and only find yourself up to your waist in the bluest of waters. There are plenty of adorable tropical fish to tickle your toes while wading around in the bay. It’s like your own secret little cove. If you need a break, there are palm trees to offer you relief, just be aware that there are no facilities there.
Playa Caracas
Found on the south side of Vieques, this beach was once known as “red beach,” and offers family friendly fun for everyone. Gently lapping waves invite locals and tourists alike to come into the turquoise waters to play. There are gazebos there for you to utilize, but no bathrooms. Hilly terrain and rocky cliffs with lush greenery are the backdrop for ribbon white sand beaches and aquamarine water.
Pata Prieta
Pata Prieta is a little known secret much loved by locals. It is a lovely cove with good snorkeling opportunities. Much more off-the-beaten path than some of the other beaches. So, if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, then Pata Prieta might just have your name all over it. The fact that is a bit more difficult to get to might be of interest to you, as well. This may work out to your advantage offering you more of a secluded spot perfect for couples.
Playa Navio
Playa Navio is another smaller beach that is not the most comfortable to get to – again, all a matter of perception as this might make it less crowded. The waters are crystal clear and, of course, the beach is magnificent. Hiking trails surround the beach and you might just find yourself doing some wave jumping when it gets too hot on the sand.
No matter your taste or style or even your age, there is a beach for you on the small isle of Vieques in Puerto Rico just waiting for you to come and visit, sit in the sun and play in the sand. These bays will enchant and delight you from the rocky cliffs to the sparkling glass water and white powdery beaches. On the beaches of Vieques, you will be delighted and charmed.
