What to Do in Vieques: A Complete Guide to the Island’s Best Activities

The bio-bay is probably the #1 attraction of the island

Vieques is one of Puerto Rico’s most unique and underrated islands — quiet, spacious, full of natural beauty, wild horses, and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Whether you’re visiting for a quick weekend escape or a week-long adventure, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Here’s a friendly guide to the best activities in Vieques (for first-time and returning travelers alike).

1. Beach Hopping: The Relaxing Thing to Do in Vieques

Vieques has dozens of beaches for you to enjoy

Vieques is best known for its calm, uncrowded beaches, particularly inside the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

Some must-see favorites include:

• Playa Caracas – calm water, postcard-perfect

• Playa La Chiva – long, scenic, great for snorkeling

• Playa Negra – black-sand beach, super photogenic

• Sun Bay – wide, spacious, easy access

• Pata Prieta (Secret Beach) – calmer, more secluded

  
  

Most travelers rent a car to explore all of these — which is why planning your transportation early is important. For more information you can check our article on Transportation options inside Vieques and Culebra. 

👉 Traveling to Vieques? The easiest way to reach the ferry is with a private ride from San Juan to Ceiba: Book your transfer with Ceiba Ferry Transfers

2. Hiking: Trails for Every Level

Vieques has several beautiful, easy-to-moderate hiking trails, most leading to hidden beaches, stunning cliffs, or remote military ruins.

Top picks:

• Playa Negra Trail – a short walk through a canyon to the famous black-sand beach

• Punta Arenas Trails – ideal for spotting wildlife

• Monte Pirata – the highest point on the island (guided access occasionally available)

  
  

Bring water, sunscreen, and good footwear — Vieques is hot year-round.

3. Experience the Bioluminescent Bay (a Must!)

The Mosquito Bio Bay experience is something you should do at least once in your life.

Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. Hands down, this is the #1 activity on the island.

You can enjoy it through:

• Clear-bottom kayak tours

• Regular kayak tours

• Electric boat tours (accessible option)

  
  

Pro tips:

• Go during a new moon if possible

• Book your tour early (it sells out fast)

• Avoid wearing bug spray — it harms the bay

• We used Jak Watersports in our last visit  and the experience was great.

  
  

If you do only one nighttime activity, let it be this.

4. Snorkeling: Clear Water & Great Visibility

Snorkeling in Vieques is affordable, easy, and beautiful. Popular spots include:

• Playa La Chiva

• Punta Arenas

• Mosquito Pier (big schools of fish, calm water)

• Rompeolas

  
  

You can rent gear on the island or bring your own. Sea turtles are commonly seen.

5. Exploring WWII & Navy Bunkers

Bunker in Puerto Real-By Steven Isaacson

Vieques has dozens of abandoned Navy bunkers hidden in the hills and along old military roads. Many are covered in murals and street art.

They’re fun for:

• Photography

• Atmosphere

• Exploring something unusual and historic

  
  

Be careful when entering old structures and always respect restricted zones.

6. Festivals & Local Culture

Vieques has an active cultural calendar despite its small size.

Popular festivals include:

• Fiestas Patronales de Vieques – music, dancing, food

• Three Kings Day (January 6)– big event across Puerto Rico

• Summer Beach Festivals – family-friendly, great food

• Carnaval de Vieques – parades and local vendors

  
  

If you’re in town during a festival, join in — Viequenses know how to celebrate.

7. Visit the Crab Island Rum Distillery

Located in the Esperanza area, Crab Island Rum Distillery offers tours, local rum tastings, and a chill island atmosphere.

Many travelers love:

• The passion fruit rum

• Small-batch specialties

• The souvenir bottles

  
  

It’s a fun stop before heading to the Malecon for dinner or sunset drinks.

8. See the Wild Horses

Vieques is famous for its free-roaming horses. You’ll see them:

• On beaches

• Along the roads

• Near hotels

• At restaurants (yes, really)

  
  

They’re friendly — but remember, they are still wild animals. Admire from a distance.

9. Boat Life, Kayaking, and Water Adventures

Vieques is the perfect place for the boat life, especially during the winter season.

Other great ways to enjoy the island include:

• Kayak rentals

• Sailing tours

• Fishing charters

• Sunset cruises

• Paddleboarding

  
  

The south coast, especially Esperanza, is the center of the island’s boating community.

10. Explore the Towns: Isabel II & Esperanza

Vieques has two main towns:

Isabel II

• Restaurants

• Shops

• Historic fort (Fortín Conde de Mirasol)

• Local bakeries

Esperanza

• Boardwalk (the Malecón)

• Oceanfront bars

• Boat tours

• Kayak rentals

  
  

Both are great for local food, culture, and casual nightlife.

⭐ Planning Tip: How to Get to Vieques

Most travelers reach Vieques by:

• Ferry from Ceiba

• Small plane from Isla Grande Airport

• Taxi Aereo from Ceiba Airport

  
  

If you’re coming from San Juan, the easiest and most reliable way to reach the ferry is a private transfer.

🚐 Book your private transportation from San Juan to Ceiba with Ceiba Ferry Transfers — the most comfortable and stress-free way to start your island trip.

Final Thoughts

Vieques is one of Puerto Rico’s most special islands — peaceful, natural, welcoming, and full of unique experiences. Whether you spend your days relaxing on empty beaches or exploring the wildlife refuge and hidden bunkers, the island offers something magical for every traveler.

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About the Author

Josue is the founder and operator of Ceiba Ferry Transfers, a private transportation service specializing in transfers from San Juan to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal — the gateway to Vieques and Culebra.

With more than a decade of experience in Puerto Rico’s transportation industry, Josue manages every aspect of the business personally, ensuring reliability, comfort, and a local touch that larger companies can’t match.

When he’s not helping travelers reach the ferry stress-free, Josue enjoys boxing, exploring Puerto Rico’s beaches, and, occasionally, a well-earned plate of mofongo.

Safe travels and see you soon!