5 Best Hotels in Vieques and Culebra, Puerto Rico

The most sophisticated place in Culebra is an assemblage of lovely plantation-style cottages on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Fulladoza Bay. Though just a five-minute drive south of Dewey, it feels completely isolated—in a good way. Come here to unplug, opting for one of the spacious villas, tastefully decorated in crisp white with soaring ceilings, modern rain-showers, and large balconies. The family villa sleeps five. The friendly staff is more than accommodating and can help set up snorkeling and diving trips, as well as transportation to the beach.

Several blocks north of the ferry dock in Isabel Segunda, this simple but attractive hotel makes a good home base for island exploration. Guest rooms are a bit spare in their decor, but all have flat-screen TVs with cable, and many have ocean views. If you're traveling with a group, the two-bedroom villa has plenty of entertaining space, and Casa Roja, a villa with seven rooms total, is across the street from the main property. Although it's a shame that the idyllic beachfront property fronts an un-swimmable beach (too rocky), the two pools, and the free use of beach chairs, coolers, and towels for beach excursions make up for it.

This collection of apartments on a hilltop makes for a calm, remote escape with views beyond the treetops and out to the ocean. Casa Maya is a particularly inviting accommodation with an infinity pool, hammock, and spacious stone shower. The decor is inspired by India. Rates vary depending on the unit. There is private parking and minimal host interaction.

Raising the bar for Vieques lodging are posh boutique hotels like this immaculate seaside escape, where rooms are decorated with rich wood furniture, luxurious stone flooring, and high-end linens. Four rooms open onto private balconies that drink in the sea directly across the street; all rooms feature marble baths and comfortable beds with playful splashes of color. A small pool and common terrace—where breakfast, featuring fresh-baked muffins and scones, is served—are open all day for relaxed lounging. Some of the island's best restaurants are a minute's stroll down Calle Flamboyán.