Where is El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) located?

El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) is located in Vieques, Puerto Rico. The exact coordinates are 18.141831, -65.475514. You can use GPS navigation or follow signs to Vieques and look for beach access points.

Is El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) good for swimming?

Yes, El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) is a public beach open for swimming. The beach has calm waters, making it ideal for swimming.

What facilities are available at El Gallito ( Gringo Beach )?

El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) is a natural beach. Facilities may be limited, so consider bringing your own supplies.

What activities can I do at El Gallito ( Gringo Beach )?

Popular activities at El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) include swimming. The beach is perfect for a day trip from Vieques.

Is there parking at El Gallito ( Gringo Beach )?

Parking near El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) may be limited. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) - Vieques | Puerto Rico Beach Finder

At a glance

El Gallito ( Gringo Beach ) is a secluded beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico, known for calm waters and scenic views. A compact north-coast beach in Vieques tucked between two rocky points along Highway 200 near the airport.

Swimming

Check conditions

Snorkel

Limited

Family

Family-friendly

Access

Short path

Best for

Scenic
Secluded

Getting there

Short path.

Best time

Year-round calm conditions thanks to the sheltered cove and Vieques' Caribbean-leaning location.

Know before you go

Heads up

Calm, sheltered waters suitable for swimming.

No lifeguard

Swim with a buddy and know your limits.

Parking

Roadside pulloff along Highway 200. Unpaved shoulder fits 4-5 cars. No lot or markings. Easy to miss if you are not looking for it — watch for other parked cars as your marker.

Limited facilities

Bring water, shade, and food for the day.

Conditions today

89°Overcast · feels like 96°

☀ UV Very high 💨 Wind 7 mph

☀ Sunrise 6:09 am🌙 Sunset 6:26 pm

Where it is

Vieques · The Cays18.14°N 65.48°W

Ways to experience El Gallito

Bookable tours and activities at and around this beach.

Viator partner

Official photo for Vieques: Sea Turtle Snorkeling Small-Group, Photos & Snacks on Viator

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About El Gallito

A compact north-coast beach in Vieques tucked between two rocky points along Highway 200 near the airport. The golden sand and calm waters make it a favorite Sunday gathering spot for locals. The sheltered cove naturally protects swimmers from open-ocean swells, creating ideal conditions year-round. No facilities available on-site, so plan accordingly with supplies and shade.

Local tips

✔Bring everything — no facilities, no vendors, no shade structures. A pop-up tent or umbrella is essential

✔Visit on a Sunday to experience the local vibe; weekdays offer solitude but you will have the beach completely alone

✔Pull off along Highway 200 near the beach access — the shoulder accommodates a few cars at most

✔Respect the local gathering culture on Sundays — this is a neighborhood beach first, visitor beach second

Plan Your Visit

What to Bring+

Sun and Water Protection:

Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)—Puerto Rico's tropical sun is intense, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM
Reusable water bottle
Hat or visor for head protection
UV-blocking rash guard or swim shirt

Shade and Comfort:

Pop-up beach tent or umbrella (essential; natural shade is limited)
Beach towel
Flip-flops or water shoes (rocky headlands may have sea urchins)

Food and Hydration:

Cooler with meals, snacks, and plenty of water—no food vendors at or near this beach
Thermoses for hot or cold beverages

Supplies and Safety:

First-aid kit (no lifeguard on duty)
Floats or inflatables for lounging on calm waters
Camera with extra battery and tripod for sunset shots
Binoculars for coastal views
Trash bags for leaving no trace

About This Beach

History & Background+

El Gallito (Gringo Beach) is located in Vieques, an island municipality situated 8 miles off the southeast coast of Puerto Rico. Vieques was formerly used by the US Navy and has since transformed into a nature and beach destination. As an offshore island community, this area offers a distinctly different pace from mainland Puerto Rico.

This compact cove on Vieques' north coast is tucked between two rocky headlands along Highway 200, creating a naturally sheltered swimming area protected from open-ocean swells. The surrounding waters are influenced by both Atlantic and Caribbean currents. The beach has become a favorite weekend destination for Vieques residents, particularly on Sundays when families gather with coolers and music, offering visitors a genuine slice of authentic island social life.

Conveniently located near the airport along Highway 200, El Gallito serves as an accessible swimming spot for travelers arriving by plane. The relative isolation of Vieques has preserved the natural coastal environment, and beaches like this one reflect the ongoing relationship between local communities and the sea.

Nearby Attractions+

El Gallito is situated in Vieques, which offers several attractions beyond the beach itself. The island's main draws include natural wonders, local culture, dining, and nearby beaches worth exploring if you have extra time.

Mosquito Bay (Bahía de Mosquito): The brightest bioluminescent bay in the world—a must-see nighttime experience if visiting Vieques.
Sun Bay (Playa El Saco): A larger, more developed beach on the south side of Vieques, well worth a visit.
Esperanza Beach (Playa Malecón): Located in the town of Esperanza with restaurants and waterfront atmosphere.
Mosquito Pier (Rompeolas): Scenic pier area offering views and snorkeling opportunities.
La Chiva (Blue Beach): Another nearby beach with distinct character and scenery.
Isabel Segunda: Vieques' main town, a short drive away, featuring the central plaza, local shops, cafés, and a chance to experience everyday Puerto Rican town life.
Local Restaurants and Kiosks (Chinchorros): Serving traditional Puerto Rican fare including fresh seafood, mofongo, tostones, empanadillas, bacalaítos, and piraguas. Ask locals for their favorite spots—the best food is often at the least conspicuous establishments.
Weekend Markets and Fiestas Patronales: Throughout the year, towns host festivals featuring live music, food, and cultural performances celebrating patron saints.