La Plata Beach
Vieques, Puerto Rico
La Plata Beach, located on the eastern coast of Vieques Island, is nestled within the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Renowned for its powdery white sand and vibrant turquoise waters, this secluded beach offers a serene escape perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, or enjoying a peaceful day with family and friends.
Despite its exceptional beauty, La Plata Beach remains relatively quiet and less frequented compared to other beaches on Vieques. Its remote location makes it a hidden gem, ideal for visitors seeking a tranquil, private beach experience. The beach is flanked by rocks and rolling green hills, creating a picturesque backdrop. The western end is often lined with seagrass, adding to the natural appeal of this pristine shoreline. The water’s gentle waves cause the sand to shimmer and glow, creating a magical effect when the sunlight hits the shore.
For those seeking an unforgettable snorkeling experience, the rocky areas on either side of the beach are teeming with marine life. Be sure to bring your snorkeling gear to fully explore the underwater world, which includes vibrant fish and other aquatic creatures. Just a short walk over rocks to the east leads to Platita Beach, a small, secluded cove that offers additional beauty and tranquility.
Getting There
To reach La Plata Beach, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended, as the road to the beach can be rough and bumpy. The beach is remote, and as such, there are no public facilities like restrooms or food kiosks. Visitors should plan ahead and bring supplies such as water, food, and sun protection.
Activities and Attractions
La Plata Beach offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages:
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The rocky areas at either end of the beach offer some of the best snorkeling opportunities on Vieques, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.
- Kayaking: The calm waters are perfect for a peaceful kayaking adventure, allowing you to explore the shoreline at your own pace.
- Paddleboarding: For a relaxing water sport, paddleboarding is a great option.
- Jet Skiing: For those seeking a thrill, jet skiing is available in certain areas of the beach.
- Surfing and Windsurfing: Depending on the wind and wave conditions, the beach offers great spots for surfing and windsurfing.
- Walking and Jogging: With its serene atmosphere and natural beauty, La Plata Beach is ideal for a morning jog or leisurely stroll along the shore.
- Camping: For an authentic nature experience, visitors can camp near the beach, surrounded by the peaceful environment of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.
- Boating: Explore the coastline from the water with a relaxing boat ride.
Services and Amenities
While La Plata Beach offers unparalleled natural beauty, it is quite remote and does not have the typical amenities found at more popular tourist spots. Visitors should come prepared, as the beach does not have restrooms, food kiosks, or changing facilities. It’s important to bring water, snacks, and sun protection for a comfortable day on the beach.
Address and Map
Physical address:
La Plata Beach
Laguna La Plata Rd
Puerto Diablo
Vieques, Puerto Rico 00765
High Season: May to August, when the beach sees more visitors, especially on weekends and holidays.
Low Season: September to April, offering a quieter, more relaxed experience for those seeking solitude.
Admission: Free
Parking: There is ample parking available, though a 4x4 vehicle is recommended to navigate the rough access road.
Nearby Places:
La Plata Beach is located close to many other beautiful and pristine beaches in Vieques. Some of the most notable nearby beaches include:
- Punta Vaca Beach
- Esperanza Beach
- Playa El Gallito
- Caracas Beach
- Blanca Beach
- Sun Bay Beach
- Barracuda Beach
- Galíndez Beach
- Cofi Beach
- Punta Arenas Beach
- La Chiva Beach “Blue Beach”
- Media Luna Beach
- Navío Beach
- Escondida Beach "Plateada Beach"
- Pata Prieta Beach
- Tapón Beach
- Rompeolas / Mosquito Pier
- Puerto del Ferry
- Playuela Beach
- Negra (Negrita) Beach
- Airport Beach
- Mosquito Bay “Bioluminescent Bay”
- Grande Beach
- Cayo de Tierra