A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Separated from mainland Puerto Rico by an 8-mile stretch of choppy blue water, the two jewel-like Caribbean havens of Culebra and Vieques have an irresistible charm and laid-back beach vibe.
Though battered by the storms of 2017, Vieques has found a renewed sense of purpose in the process of recovery. Sara B. Franklin discovers what has been lost — and what is flourishing once again.
There is so much to see and do in Puerto Rico that the unaware visitor might be overwhelmed and end up missing some of the best sights the island has to offer. To help you prioritize, here are the top 5 attractions on the island. Included are an ancient fortress; a tropical rainforest; a bioluminescent bay; a natural underground cave system; and a tiny islet with breathtaking beaches.
In essence, a bioluminescent bay (or biobay) is a rare and fragile ecosystem. There is bioluminescence all over the world; however, few places classify as a biobay. Biobays are formed by microscopic single-cell organisms called dinoflagellates. When these organisms get agitated (i.e., when any object in the water splashes through), they release energy in the form of light. Consequently, they glow, illuminating anything that comes in contact with them, such as fish, the oars of a canoe, or people.
On the small island of Vieques, you have ample choice of beaches. Some people love to beach-hop, while others prefer to find that one sun-kissed spot that will hold them for the day. Here’s a guide to 10 of the best.
A weekend on Vieques Island is probably all you need for your first trip to Puerto Rico. Many tourists spend their entire vacations here and barely set foot on “The Big Island” (mainland Puerto Rico). However, first-timers can get a good feel for what this small wonder of an island offers. Moreover, Vieques was slammed in 2017 by Hurricanes Irma and Maria; however, it is rebuilding beautifully, and tourists are returning to enjoy its charm. Most of these businesses mentioned have rebounded well after the hurricanes.