La Plata & Sun Bay in Vieques

La Plata

La Plata is gorgeous.  There generally aren't that many people there, so you can have most of the beach to yourself.  There is the "Gallery" that you can wade to, there is decent snorkeling, and there are coconuts to drill into and drink the milk from!  Did I mention the soothing sound of the waves and the view?  I will start off by saying this...There are NO topless beaches in Vieques; however, if you wanted to go topless after all of the other beachgoers have left, this is your spot ;)  There is no shade, unless you leave the beach and walk back to your vehicle.  Ditch the umbrella!!!  You have got to make a canopy to protect your beer on ice!  Read my earlier post about canopies.  Our friends Curt and Lorrie that have the blog "After the Mortgage" perfected the beach canopy. It withstands the ocean wind quite well.  It's definitely a must!  On a side note: 

• Do not walk around near the foliage without shoes.  Sand burs are terrible.  I pulled many out of my foot! OUCH!
• The sea grass looks lovely to sit on, but check where you are sitting.  I almost sat on an urchin. 
• Always keep valuables with your person.  There is some petty theft that has been reported.  Keep your vehicle windows down so somebody doesn't have the chance to bust them out thinking there is something inside worth having. 
• I always keep in mind when traveling, that it is not my home and some of the places we visit are poverty stricken.  I know that I haven't walked in those shoes, so we are mindful of ourselves by having respect and mindful of our property. 

The "Gallery" is a little beach you wade to that has rocks and other objects balanced.  I was lovingly told its NOT stacking.  If you want to know the creator, they are there a couple months out of the year.  Look for Judy and Andre.  They are neat people that you could spend the day with listening to adventures they have had and lived.  It's very neat to see and I think everyone picks out a favorite.  There is also some good snorkeling around the rocks on the way there. 

The "Gallery"

Looking out from the "Gallery" toward the sea grass!  Watch where you sit because it may be on an urchin!  Ouch! 

Brad's point of view

Side view of the "Gallery" looking back towards La Plata

Sun Bay

Sun bay is the quintessential beach from every post card you have seen.  There are palms to sit under, there are calm waves, there are coconuts, and there are the occasional dogs and horses that visit for an afternoon siesta.  Your vehicle is right there where you can see and I believe there is a snack/food area.  Keep in mind...if you are looking for seclusion, this is certainly NOT the beach for you. I DO not recommend going topless, either ;)

This beach is postcard worthy!

You never have to be in the sun unless you choose to be!

Sometimes you have a chair malfunction, so make sure your chairs are in proper working order :)

Selfie with friends!

Used our coconut tool (get one cheap on Amazon) to get a fresh drink and eat some fresh meat!

Someone loved our shady spot under the palms!

Whether you like seclusion, people, shade, sun, waves, or snorkeling, there is a beach for you!  This is two of many that Vieques has to offer, so go EXPLORE!!!

XOXO...Becky