My husband and I just got back from five blissful days in Vieques, Puerto Rico, otherwise known as heaven on earth. If you're in the market for a honeymoon locale that's easy to get to (there's no passport required, and it's just a quick puddle-jump from San Juan), about as laid back and relaxing as it gets, and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this might just be the spot for you.
We rented a great little place, Sandcastle Casita, which is located on the grounds of the brand new W hotel. It was beautiful, really inexpensive, and had everything we needed: an outdoor kitchen, a saltwater pool, a rental car for getting around the island, ocean views. . . sigh. There isn't much to do in Vieques besides hang out in the sun, so we spent our days bopping around from beach to secluded beach. At night, we hung out in the adorable little waterfront town of Esperanza, drinking Medallas (the local beer) and eating fish tacos. Let me know if you plan on going, and I'll recommend a few of our favorite places!
The pool view from our casita.
Postcard-worthy Red Beach, on the southern shore.
One of many wild horses that live on the island.
From: Tweets that mention Travel: Off the Beaten Path in Puerto Rico - The Bride's Guide : Martha Stewart Weddings -- Topsy.com | 2/21/11 at 11:53 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by guerillagirl and MarthaStewartWedding, weddingchitchat. weddingchitchat said: Travel: Off the Beaten Path in Puerto Rico http://bit.ly/dPPxKT [...]
From: Tegan M. | 2/21/11 at 3:04 pm
Perfect timing! We were looking at Jamaica for our honeymoon in September and are booking this week. This looks exactly like what we were looking for though-- someplace laid back where we could relax, avoid the "party" scene, and do some snorkeling. I would LOVE to know the inside scoop on your favorite places. My fiance has already emailed the owner of the villa to check that the dates we want are available. What an awesome deal, too!
From: Cass | 2/22/11 at 9:27 pm
We are planning on a Puerto Rican honeymoon. But so far we only have our flight and first two nights in San Juan figured out.
We have been at a loss with what else to do! The island looks so beautiful, but each town has its own flavor. How do we choose?
From: Roxy | 3/16/11 at 10:09 pm
I'm so glad I stumbled on your page! We are planning a Vieques honeymoon. And for those who are considering puerto rico - just do it! San Juan is beautiful - like a european town...by the beach. El Convento Hotel in Old San Juan is so romantic!!
But onto my Vieques question.... the "private pool" in the sandcastle casita, was that just for you or shared with other guests staying there??
I GREATLY appreciate your assistance!! :0)
From: Cara | 3/22/11 at 12:42 pm
Hi Tegan- honestly, the inside scoop is that the entire island is incredible! All of the beaches are amazing, but our favorites were Silver Beach, Navio Beach, and Secret Beach. You have to drive out quite a ways to get to them, but that's what makes it fun. And the snorkeling is great at Red Beach (the only downside is that it's a little more crowded than the others). In Esperanza, we loved Duffy's. It's totally casual, with great food and a fun bar where the locals hang out. For a nice meal, check out El Quenepo, which is also in town, and the restaurant at the the W hotel- a bit of a drive from town. Both were really delicious.
Cass, If you're talking about towns in Vieques, I'd definitely try to stay in Esperanza (in our experience, the other town, Isabel II, didn't seem quite so quaint and beachy). That said, the island is filled with places that aren't near either town, and they're all great. It's such a small place that you can really stay anywhere and still be close to restaurants, bars, and beaches.
And Roxy, they only rent to one couple at a time (unless you're traveling with another couple, in which case they'll rent both casitas at once). So the only people you'd be sharing the pool with are the owners. And while we were there, we only saw them twice. They're lovely, and there if you need them, but we definitely didn't feel like we were sharing space with them. The pool felt like it was ours. But honestly, if you go, I have a feeling you won't want to leave the beach
From: Bianca | 4/12/11 at 1:24 pm
Cara- Thank you for your post! it is very helpful. We are looking to go end of September. Where did you rent your car from? I have looked at two places online that do car rentals. We just need something with all wheel drive. Thanks!
From: Cara | 4/12/11 at 1:39 pm
Hi Bianca! We rented our car from the owners of the property we rented. There are a few places on Vieques that rent Jeeps. I have heard good things about Martineau Car Rental. Have an amazing time!!!