While many vacationers follow the mainland when visiting Puerto Rico, there are literally over 100 islands, islets, and cays which can be a part of this stunning archipelago. Many are uninhabited and utterly ignored by the everyday vacationer.
The islands of Culebra and Vieques aren’t completely remoted – in actual fact, they’re very simple to get to – however they’re much much less traveled than different components of Puerto Rico, making them supreme for a secluded getaway.
Fondly dubbed the “Spanish Virgin Islands,” Culebra and Vieques are house to not solely a few of the finest seashores in Puerto Rico, however a few of the finest seashores on this planet.
Located only some miles off the jap coast of mainland Puerto Rico (6 miles to Vieques and 20 to Culebra), these islands are largely coated in wildlife reserves, and for that motive, are an ideal place for mountain climbing, snorkeling, and diving.
What To Do in Culebra and Vieques
The hottest points of interest in Culebra and Vieques are the world-renowned seashores and bioluminescent bays. There are additionally plenty of actions to do contained in the sprawling wildlife reserves, together with mountain climbing, diving, snorkeling, bird-watching, and even recognizing some wild horses! Here are a few of the wonderful methods you’ll be able to spend your days on these spectacular islands.
Visit Some of the Best Beaches within the World
Culebra’s white-sand Flamenco Beach was named one of many prime 25 seashores on this planet by TripAdvisor. Its calm waves and crystal-clear waters make a terrific setting for having fun with a calming day or performing some snorkeling. The colourful graffiti-covered tanks that stay on the seashore are a reminder of the island’s previous as a naval base and a singular photograph op.
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Zoni and Tamarindo seashores are standard snorkeling and diving spots on Culebra, and also you’re more likely to see sea turtles and even manta rays. If you’re up for a problem with a worthy reward, you’ll be able to hike the rocky path main right down to the secluded Resaca seashore.
On Vieques, you’ll discover one of the best of each worlds with pristine white seashores in addition to a black sand seashore, Playita Negra. Playa Esperanza and Sun Bay are recognized for his or her tranquil waters, and Pata Prieta, or “Secret Beach,” is yet one more hidden gem the place you’ll be able to spend your day stress-free with little to no crowds.
Because many of the seashores on each islands are very secluded, the bulk received’t have services of any form. You’ll wish to keep in mind to deliver all the pieces you want, together with water, meals, and one thing to guard your self from the solar – after which, in fact, pack all the pieces out while you go away.
Kayak Amongst Bioluminescent Phytoplankton
Aside from its unbelievable seashores, the highest focal point on Vieques is Mosquito Bay. This space was really acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records because the brightest bioluminescent bay on this planet.
Visitors can take a tour in a clear-bottomed kayak by the bay and watch because the water glows blue when touched. For a good higher expertise, it’s recommended to go to throughout a brand new moon. This, mixed with the dearth of sunshine air pollution right here, will will let you see the phytoplankton at their brightest.
Island Hop To Nearby Islands
Many smaller, uninhabited islands encompass Vieques and Culebra, together with Isla Culebrita and different cays. You can simply spend a day island hopping to some unbelievable, untouched islets for much more distant and tranquil seashores. These cays are additionally the proper spot for snorkeling and diving amongst undisturbed marine life. You can get to those hidden areas by water taxi, constitution boat, and even kayak.
Explore The Island’s Nature By Jeep
Wildlife reserves cowl a big portion of each islands. In truth, the Vieques National Wildlife Reserve consists of 20,000 acres of protected land and 9 nautical miles of a marine reserve. One of one of the best methods to discover the distant components of the island is to lease a Jeep, scooter, and even golf cart.
This will will let you seashore hop, discover distant mountain climbing trails, uncover the island’s hidden gems, and certain come throughout a few of the island’s many wild horses.
How To Get There
Getting to Culebra and Vieques is comparatively simple. Both are accessible by small airplane, with flights leaving a number of occasions a day from San Juan (Isla Grande airport and SJU). The flights are solely round 25-35 minutes, relying on which island you’re going to, and price round $100.
Ferries are the extra economical choice, though not fairly as handy. Ferries depart from the small city of Ceiba on the jap coast, which is about 40 minutes from San Juan. The journey is 30-45 minutes, and tickets for both island will solely put you out $2-$4. Although ferries go away a number of occasions a day, they will get busy, so it’s really helpful to buy your ticket prematurely.
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