Vieques, Wildlife refuge island in Puerto Rico
Vieques is an island off the coast of Puerto Rico, located about eight miles east of the main island and stretching roughly twenty miles long with a maximum width of four miles. Numerous sand beaches line the coastline, while large portions of the territory are now designated as wildlife refuge areas.
Christopher Columbus reached the island in 1493 during his second voyage and brought it under European control. For centuries the territory shifted between Spanish, British, and Danish rule before remaining permanently with Puerto Rico.
The nickname Isla Nena comes from Puerto Rican tradition and means little girl, a name expressing the special bond with the main island. Wild horses roam the grounds freely and have become a living part of the landscape over decades.
Small planes connect San Juan international airport to the island several times daily, while a ferry operates from the port in Ceiba. Most visitors rent a vehicle once there, as public transit is limited and many beaches lie away from the main settlements.
Mosquito Bay hosts microorganisms that produce natural light when disturbed in the water, making it the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. This glow is best seen at night when the water lights up with every paddle stroke.
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