Sun Bay Beach

This beach is famous for its pristine environment, making it a perfect destination for visitors who appreciate natural beauty and serene surroundings. For those who like to stay active, Sun Bay also offers scenic hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and hidden gems within the island’s tropical landscape. The trails are suitable for all fitness levels, with some paths leading to remote sections of the beach that are ideal for quiet reflection or a secluded swim.

Facilities and Services

Sun Bay Beach is equipped with a wide range of amenities to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable:

• Sanitary Facilities: Clean, well-maintained public restrooms are located throughout the beach area.
• Showers: After a swim or a day spent in the sun, visitors can rinse off with fresh water at the convenient shower stations located near the beach entrance.
• Lifeguards: Lifeguards are stationed on the beach during operational hours, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers and beachgoers.
• Food Kiosks and Cafeteria: Satisfy your hunger with local snacks, refreshing drinks, and traditional Puerto Rican food at the beachside food kiosks or the cafeteria.
• Picnic Tables: Multiple picnic areas with tables offer a relaxed space to enjoy meals with family or friends while overlooking the water.
• Camping Area: Sun Bay Beach offers a designated camping area for visitors who want to enjoy the beach overnight and experience Vieques’ natural beauty under the stars. It’s a perfect opportunity for those who want to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
• Parking: Ample parking is available for vehicles, motorcycles, and buses, making it easy for groups and families to access the beach.
• Private Security: The beach benefits from round-the-clock security patrols, providing peace of mind for all visitors.

Water Activities and Sports

Sun Bay Beach is a prime destination for water activities, with its calm, shallow waters perfect for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Some of the popular activities include:

• Swimming and Snorkeling: The clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the underwater world is teeming with life, including starfish, colorful fish, and vibrant coral. For snorkelers, the bay offers an accessible and rich environment to explore.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The relatively calm waters make for an excellent setting to try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Rentals are available at the beach for those who wish to explore the shoreline at their own pace.
• Jet Skiing and Boating: For visitors seeking an adrenaline rush, jet skis are available for rent, while boat tours provide a relaxing way to explore Vieques from the water.
• Windsurfing and Kiteboarding: Sun Bay’s moderate wind conditions make it a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding, drawing enthusiasts from around the world.
• Recreational Fishing: Fishing is a common pastime along Sun Bay’s shore. Visitors can try shore fishing or hire a local boat to take them to deeper waters for a chance to catch a variety of fish species.

Hiking and Wildlife

In addition to water-based activities, Sun Bay offers scenic hiking opportunities for those looking to explore its natural beauty on foot. The hiking trails offer access to breathtaking viewpoints where visitors can see panoramic views of the beach and the surrounding tropical landscape. These trails are perfect for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the lush environment of Vieques.

A unique feature of Sun Bay Beach is the presence of semi-wild horses that often graze in the surrounding areas. These horses are a distinctive part of Vieques’ wildlife and add a magical element to the beach’s atmosphere. The sight of these horses roaming freely through the beach’s green areas makes Sun Bay even more special.

Opening Hours and Access

• Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Beach Access: Open 24 hours a day, with official service hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday and holidays. During the high season (May to August), services are available from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.

Rental Services

For those in need of additional comfort, Sun Bay Beach offers various rental services:

• Umbrellas, beach chairs, and tables
• Water sports equipment such as kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear
• Outdoor Gazebo Rentals: A double gazebo measuring 13 × 25 feet, with a capacity for up to 50 people, is available for group activities or private events.