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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.   When we decided to go, I had no idea how much of an adventure it would actually be. This isn’t the kind of beach where you pull into a paved lot, grab your towel, and walk 30 seconds to the water. It requires effort — and honestly, that’s what makes it unforgettable. The first glimpse of the black sand against the turquoise water stopped us in our tracks. It didn’t feel touristy. It felt earned. 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). Ready? Let’s go!  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 ...

๐ŸŒ About Me

 Hi, I’m Sheila Hayes, the mom and travel content creator behind SheMamaMaps — where I help families travel smarter, not harder.


I’m a Florida-based mom of one (plus four cats!), a travel content creator, and points-and-miles enthusiast by heart.


Over the years, I’ve turned my lifelong love of travel into a business that helps families just like mine ditch the overwhelm, stretch their budgets, and make unforgettable memories — whether it’s a cruise, a multi-destination trip overseas, or a weekend road trip.






✈️ What You’ll Find Here

This blog is where I share:


  • Practical family travel tips (without the Pinterest-perfect pressure)
  • Cruise advice and port guides (I’ve been on more than a few!)
  • How we use points and miles to fly for almost free
  • Real-life reviews of destinations, excursions, hotels, and travel products
  • And the honest truth about what family travel actually looks like

Because let’s be real: Family travel is magical, chaotic, and hilarious.


๐Ÿงญ Why “SheMamaMaps”?

“SheMamaMaps” is my way of mapping out smoother, smarter adventures — so you don’t have to learn things the hard way. I do the research, test the hacks, and create the guides so you can skip straight to the fun part.


Whether you’re dreaming of a big international trip, a family cruise, or your first travel rewards redemption, I’m here to cheer you on — and show you how to make it happen.


๐Ÿ’ฌ Let’s Connect!

You can find me (and follow our family adventures) here:



๐Ÿงณ Start Here:

If you’re new, here are some great posts to check out:



Thanks for being here. Whether you’re just dreaming or already booking flights, I hope SheMamaMaps gives you the tools — and confidence — to take your next family adventure.


Happy travels!


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