How to Get to the Black Sand Beach in Vieques (Playa Negra)
How to Get to the Black Sand Beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico (Playa Negra)
If you’re looking for one of the most unique beaches in Puerto Rico, Playa Negra in Vieques belongs at the top of your list. This isn’t a “park-and-walk” kind of beach—but that’s exactly why it still feels wild and untouched.
Below is the exact, step-by-step route we used to get there, plus tips so you don’t miss the trail (or ruin your shoes).
Step 1: Fly to San Juan, Puerto Rico
Start by booking a flight into San Juan (SJU). This is the easiest jumping-off point for getting to Vieques, especially if you’re coming from the mainland U.S.
Step 2: Uber to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal
From San Juan, take an Uber or rideshare about 1 hour east to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal.
👉 Pro tip: Build in buffer time and arrive 1 hour before your scheduled departure time. Ferries are scheduled, and you don’t want to miss yours.
Step 3: Take the Puerto Rico Ferry to Vieques
Book the Puerto Rico Ferry to Vieques in advance if possible. The ride takes about 30–45 minutes, and seas can be choppy depending on conditions.
Once you arrive, you’ll dock on the north side of Vieques.
Step 4: Taxi to Esperanza
From the ferry terminal, grab a taxi and head to Esperanza, a relaxed beach town on the south side of the island. This is the best base for food, rentals, and beach access.
Step 5: Rent a UTV or Side-by-Side
This step is key. To reach Playa Negra, rent a UTV (or side-by-side) in Esperanza.
Step 6: Drive to the Path Entrance
Use Google Maps or any GPS for Playa Negra Vieques, but keep an eye out for the sign!
You’ll see:
- A small sign
- An unmarked dirt path
- Limited space to park across the road from the dirt path.
Park your UTV here. This is as far as vehicles go.
Step 7: Walk 15 Minutes Past the Sign
From the sign, walk about 15 minutes through muddy terrain. The trail can flood.
What to wear:
- Sneakers, flip flops, or water shoes
- A bathing suit/cover up or clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Then suddenly—the sand turns black, the waves crash hard, and the beach opens up in front of you.
You made it.
Watch this full video belong to "How to Get to the Black Sand Beach in Vieques."
What Makes Playa Negra So Special?
Playa Negra’s black sand comes from volcanic minerals washed down from Vieques’ hills. The darker the sand, the better—so visiting after rain often delivers the most dramatic look.
This beach is:
- Wild and uncrowded
- Not ideal for swimming far out. We did but stayed very close to the shore. (strong waves)
- Perfect for photos, exploring, and soaking in the moment
Tips Before You Go
- Go earlier in the day to avoid heat on the trail
- Skip white shoes (trust me)
- Check weather and tide conditions
- Bring water—there are no facilities
Final Thoughts
Playa Negra isn’t easy to reach—but that’s the magic. If you’re willing to put in the effort, you’ll experience one of the most unforgettable beaches in Puerto Rico.
👉 Save this guide before your trip and watch the full video walkthrough on SheMamaMaps for a visual step-by-step.
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