Culebra and Vieques
Just a short flight or boat ride from the Puerto Rico mainland, these enchanting islands are home to world-renowned beaches and the world's brightest bioluminescent bay.
If Puerto Rico has a best-kept secret, it is the islands of Culebra and Vieques, sometimes known as the Spanish Virgin Islands. Puerto Rico is an archipelago, which means it has dozens of cays and islets. Two of its most popular nearby islands are Culebra and Vieques. Whether you're coming for a day trip or making it an extended stay, these two islands are worth the trip, and both are world-class destinations in their own right.
Things to Do
With their breathtaking beaches, Culebra and Vieques are excellent destinations for water activities such as swimming, diving, kayaking, or snorkeling. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Culebra has Flamenco beach, which the Discovery Channel named the second-best beach on the planet. There is also the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, which has hiking trails and other amenities for nature lovers. At the Cayo Luis Peña Natural Reserve in Culebra, you'll find impressive spots for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Where to Stay
There are several lodging options in Vieques, including vacation rentals, guesthouses, and a small selection of eclectic hotels, such as the trendy El Blok and the eco-friendly Hix Island House. For its part, Culebra has more than 100 options for vacation rentals that you can book through services such as Airbnb and HomeAway. Other lodging options include Club Seabourne and Palmetto Guesthouse.
