Starfish Beach (Vieques) is a family-friendly beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico, known for families and snorkeling. Starfish Beach in Vieques is an ideal family-friendly destination featuring a shallow sandy pocket near Punta Arenas with a thriving starfish habitat. Facilities include parking.
- ✓ Parking
Short path.
Best season: December through April offers the most pleasant weather with lower humidity.
Swim with a buddy and know your limits.
Bring water, shade, and food for the day.
Ways to experience Starfish Beach
Bookable tours and activities at and around this beach.
Viator photoPopular near this beachVieques: Sea Turtle Snorkeling Small-Group, Photos & Snacks⚠️IMPORTANT: This activity takes place on the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Guests must take the ferry ⛴️ to Vieques in order to participate in the…◷ About 2 hours✓ Free cancellationFrom $89Check availability ↗
Viator photoPopular near this beachPrivate Island Kayak and Snorkel Tour in ViequesDiscover the vibrant underwater world of Vieques on this unique Private Island Kayak & Snorkel Tour. Paddle from shore to a secluded snorkeling site…◷ About 1 h 30 minFrom $120Check availability ↗Browse more tours on Viator ↗We may earn a commission when you book through Viator links, at no extra cost to you.
About Starfish Beach
Starfish Beach in Vieques is an ideal family-friendly destination featuring a shallow sandy pocket near Punta Arenas with a thriving starfish habitat. This protected marine area offers excellent snorkeling opportunities in clear waters with diverse marine life and outstanding underwater visibility. Look but don't touch the starfish to help preserve this natural wonder. Perfect for families seeking a safe, scenic beach experience on Puerto Rico's offshore island.
Local tips
What to Bring+
Sun & Water Protection:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) – apply regularly; the tropical sun is intense between 10 AM and 2 PM
- Hat or visor for additional sun protection
- Reusable water bottle – bring plenty of water and stay hydrated in the tropical heat
Snorkeling Gear:
- Snorkel set (mask, snorkel, fins) – bring your own for the best fit and visibility
- Underwater camera (optional) to document marine life
Beach Comfort & Shade:
- Portable beach umbrella or pop-up shade tent – highly recommended, as natural shade is limited
- Sand toys for children
Food & Supplies:
- Meals, snacks, and water in a cooler – there are no food vendors at or near this beach, so pack your own provisions
History & Background+
Starfish Beach is located in Vieques, an island municipality situated 8 miles off the southeast coast of Puerto Rico. Formerly used by the US Navy, Vieques has transformed into a premier nature and beach destination. As an offshore island municipality, this area offers a distinctly different pace from mainland Puerto Rico, with the surrounding waters influenced by both Atlantic and Caribbean currents.
The shallow sandy pocket near Punta Arenas creates an ideal habitat for starfish and other marine life. The relative isolation of Vieques has helped preserve the natural coastal environment and marine ecosystems. Clear waters with diverse marine life and excellent underwater visibility make this area particularly appealing for snorkeling and beach exploration.
The municipality of Vieques carries deep roots in Puerto Rico's history, and beaches like Starfish Beach reflect the ongoing relationship between coastal communities and the sea. Whether visited by local families on weekends or travelers discovering the area for the first time, this stretch of shoreline embodies the character of its unique surroundings.
Nearby Attractions+
Starfish Beach is situated in Vieques, which offers several attractions beyond the beach itself. The area is known for its natural wonders, charming town life, and nearby beaches worth exploring if you have extra time.
- Mosquito Bay (Bahía Bioluminiscente): The brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, located nearby and well worth a visit
- Sun Bay: Another excellent beach option for a day of exploration and relaxation
- Sea Glass Beach (Vieques): A unique beach with its own character and charm
- Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach): Features distinctive dark sand and a different beach experience
- Caracas Beach: Another nearby option, each beach offering distinct features worth discovering
- Isabel Segunda (Main Town): A short drive away, featuring a central plaza with church, local shops, cafes, and weekend markets or festivals throughout the year, particularly during patron saint celebrations with live music, food, and cultural performances
- Local Dining: Look for roadside kiosks (chinchorros) serving traditional Puerto Rican fare including fresh seafood, mofongo (mashed plantain with garlic), tostones (fried plantain slices), empanadillas, bacalaítos (codfish fritters), and piraguas (shaved ice with fruit syrup) at affordable prices
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Questions
Where is Starfish Beach (Vieques) located?
Starfish Beach (Vieques) is located in Vieques, Puerto Rico. The exact coordinates are 18.1569, -65.5134. You can use GPS navigation or follow signs to Vieques and look for beach access points.
Is Starfish Beach (Vieques) good for swimming?
Yes, Starfish Beach (Vieques) is a public beach open for swimming.
What facilities are available at Starfish Beach (Vieques)?
Starfish Beach (Vieques) offers the following facilities: Parking.
What activities can I do at Starfish Beach (Vieques)?
Popular activities at Starfish Beach (Vieques) include snorkeling. The beach is family-friendly and perfect for a day trip from Vieques.
Is there parking at Starfish Beach (Vieques)?
Yes, Starfish Beach (Vieques) has parking available.
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