The Island of Vieques Puerto Rico is one of the Spanish US Virgin Islands together with little sister Culebra Puerto Rico.
Both are integral part of Puerto Rico regarding nationality, language and customs. Therefore all born on the Island are US citizens by birth. Puerto Ricans have nicknamed it “La Isla Nena” or the girl island.
Vieques Puerto Rico is a little paradise, its waters are pristine and the attitude is a laid back one. Locals and many visitors alike want to keep it this way and resist any attempt from developers including the Puerto Rico government to change it.
About 10 miles from mainland Puerto Rico
The island lies about 10 miles off the coast of mainland Puerto Rico, midway to St Thomas USVI, and next to its smaller sister island of Culebra.
For 60 years since 1943, the US Navy had used the island for all kind of naval exercises and held a great part of its territory. After years of pressure from local residents and many Puerto Ricans alike, the Navy finally left in 2003 and now the island is a heaven for tourists looking for underdeveloped and remote sites, far from tumultuous resorts and multitudes.
Honeymoons and Family Vacations
The exotic beaches and crystal blue waters make it an idyllic place for Island Honeymoons, Caribbean Family Vacations and couples just trying to find their Romantic Getaways.
The fortress of “El Fortin Conde de Mirasol” located in the town of Isabel Segunda constructed during Spanish Colonial rule holds the Vieques Museum of Art and History and the Vieques Archives. Open Wed-Sun 10am – 4 pm.
The other town across the island is Esperanza.
Many idyllic beaches
• Blue Beach is an ideal site for snorkeling due to the immense amount of marine life in its waters.
• Red Beach
• Garcia Beach
• Orchid Beach features deep blue waters and ideal for surfing.
• Sombe or also known as Sun bay is the site for the island’s “Balneareo” or public beach with all facilities you can expect.
It’s popular with families and campers.
• In Mosquito Bay is a phosphorescent one due a phenomenon caused by millions of a tiny form of marine life.
Get there by air from San Juan or by ferry from Fajardo
Getting to Vieques is easy. From San Juan International Airport the flight is about 20 minutes.
Also there are some flights from St Croix and St Thomas USVI and from Fajardo Puerto Rico, located on the east coast of the main island.
You can get there from Fajardo Puerto Rico by ferry in about an hour.
The ferry operates three times a day. For schedules call the Puerto Rico Port Authority Office at 800—981-2005
While in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Vieques Puerto Rico for a couple of days or think of it for your next Caribbean Family Vacations.
Top 10 Hassle-Free Travel Tips
1. Leave your passport at home, on purpose! Avoid the hassles of customs and immigration lines by traveling to places like Puerto Rico, where no U.S. passport is required for travel between the United States and the Island!
2. Shed your winter coat and gloves in lieu of resort-wear. Remember to pack your favorite bathing suit, pair of shorts and sandals.
3. Pack all your liquids and gels in a one-quart sized plastic bag, all in 3 ounce containers or smaller. U.S. Federal regulations do not allow anything more than that onboard the airplane.
4. Don’t forget to pack bug repellent for your adventure, especially if you’ll be visiting a rainforest.
5. Book your favorite experience with one of our Tour Operators
6. Bring plenty of sunscreen if you’re planning to go to the beach or one of Puerto Rico’s amazing outdoor attractions.
7. Bring your favorite MP3 player and make sure to download some podcasts before leaving home, including a new one on GoToPuertoRico.com!
8. Take advantage of airlines’ online check-in to get you some extra sleep-in time before heading to the airport.
9. Bring your credit cards or cash for all the shopping you’ll do on your vacation.
10. Be sure to wear shoes that you can easily take off during the security checkpoints at the airport!
Information by http://www.le-caribbean-islands.com