Vieques Island – Travel Guide
Vieques is a Caribbean island off Puerto Rico’s eastern coast. It’s known for boat tours of Bioluminescent Bay (or Mosquito Bay), where microorganisms give the water a blue-green glow. It also offers secluded beaches and snorkeling. Believe it or not, wild horses roam the countryside, much of which is preserved as the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. The Fuerte de Vieques is a mid-19th-century Spanish fort and museum.
All about Vieques Island
Getting Around Vieques Island
On Foot
Walking around the main towns is a great way to explore the local shops and restaurants. Walks on the beautiful beaches and the waterfront street in Esperanza is pleasurable. And the lush verdant interior of the island offers some great walking and hiking opportunities.
By Bicycle
Renting a bicycle is another great way to explore the island and stop off at the beaches and viewpoints. Scooters are also available to rent on the island and a fun, adventurous way to get around.
By Public/Taxi
Publico taxis are the local taxi service offered on the island, they are mostly found around the beaches and the main towns. There are only publico taxis that can be easily accessed at the beaches and main towns.
By Ferry
The ferry service on Vieques operates several times a day to and from Ceiba and the mainland. The ferry costs around $2 to Ceiba and the journey takes 30 minutes.
By Car
If you plan to travel around the island and explore the sights and attractions you will need your own car. Taxi services are only offered in the main towns and there is no other public transportation on the island.
Vieques Island FAQ
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport is located on Vieques Island, a small airport that accommodates small propeller-driven aircraft. There are daily flights from three different airports to Vieques, San Juan International, Isla Grande Airport, or Ceiba Airport. There are rental cars, and taxis available at the airport to connect you to your accommodation.
What types of transportation can I find at the airport?
If you have not booked a private transfer with us then you have a few options to reach your hotel, rental car, and taxis. Several international named rental car companies are available at the airport and the publico (taxi) services.
How do I get around the city using public transportation?
Renting a car is the best way to get around the island giving visitors the freedom to explore the sights, attractions, and beaches. There are only publico taxis that can be easily accessed at the beaches and main towns.
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More About Vieques Island
How do I get around by ferry in Vieques Island?
The ferry service on Vieques operates several times a day to and from Ceiba and the mainland. The ferry costs around $2 to Ceiba and the journey takes 30 minutes.
Should I rent a car in Vieques Island?
Yes, if you plan to travel around the island and explore the sights and attractions you will need your own car. Taxi services are only offered in the main towns and there is no other public transportation on the island.
How do I call/hail a taxi?
Publico taxis are the local taxi service offered on the island, they are mostly found around the beaches and the main towns.
Is Vieques Island a walking city?
Yes, walking around the main towns is a great way to explore the local shops and restaurants. Walks on the beautiful beaches and the waterfront street in Esperanza is pleasurable. And the lush verdant interior of the island offers some great walking and hiking opportunities.
Can I ride a bike on Vieques Island?
Yes renting a bicycle is another great way to explore the island and stop off at the beaches and viewpoints. Scooters are also available to rent on the island and a fun, adventurous way to get around.
Is Vieques Island a dangerous city, is there anything I should be aware of?
Vieques Island is an extremely safe destination to travel to. Puerto Rico has a lower violent crime rate than most US states including California, New York, Washington, and Texas. Petty crime can be the main problem, so it’s recommended that you stay aware when out exploring and sightseeing as pickpockets are common.
What are some popular areas for shopping?
The main towns of Esperanza and Isabela Segunda are where the main grocery stores, local shops, and souvenir shops can be found.
What is the language spoken in Vieques Island?
The official language spoken in Vieques Island is Spanish and English, many people speak English especially in the service industry at hotels and restaurants. We recommend you get a good English-Spanish guidebook and learn common phrases such as hello, goodbye, please, thank you, and numbers 1-10.
What is the best time to visit Vieques Island?
Vieques Island features a warm, tropical climate with average daily temperatures ranging from 75.8 to 80 degrees. The island is relatively dry with the wettest months being May, September, October, and November. There is a risk of hurricanes during hurricane season which runs from June 1st through November. The best time to visit the tropical island is from mid-November through the beginning of June with dry breezy weather and temps in the mid-80s and nighttime temps around the low 70s. Be sure to check the moon cycle if you are looking to see the stunning bioluminescent sights of Mosquito Bay, the best time to see this is during a new moon when the skies are their darkest.
What is the currency? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The units of currency in Vieques Island is the United States Dollar. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand upon arrival. Currency exchange desks and ATM’s can be found at the airport and in the main towns.
What is the food like?
The island offers a unique blend of classic Puerto Rican fare, freshly caught seafood and fish, farm to table fare, and many other cuisines including Mexican. The main dining opportunities can be found in Esperanza and Isabella Segunda the islands two main towns with casual and beachside choices. There are food trucks found all over the island, many found at the north end of the island in Vieques Food Park and the parking lot of Esperanza Beach.
What is the nightlife like?
There are not many nightlife options on the sleepy island of Vieques, most bars and restaurants are located in the two main towns and there are plenty of beachfront restaurants to capture a stunning sunset and sip on tropical cocktails. The biggest and most popular nightlife opportunities on the island are Mosquito Bay`s bioluminescent bay which can best be viewed during a new moon.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
In case of an emergency dial 911.
Hospital: Centro de Salud de Vieques tel. 7877652929.
Top Attractions
Mosquito Bay
One of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world, offering a glowing kayak experience at night.
Vieques National Wildlife Refuge
Protected area with stunning beaches, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.
Vieques Pier
Charming gateway to Vieques Island, the Vieques Pier offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Black Sand Beach
Unique for its dark volcanic sand, this beach offers a dramatic and picturesque setting.
Unique Experiences
Nighttime Boat Tour at Mosquito Bay.
Sail through the unique glowing waters of this bioluminescent bay, where each stroke lights up the water due to microorganisms.
Hike to the Blue Beach.
A scenic, moderate hike that leads to a secluded and serene beach with clear blue waters, perfect for a peaceful day away from crowds.
What to expect while traveling
