Bravo Beach Hotel

The main doorway to Bravo Beach Hotel is just off the street next to the free parking area. The gate (accessed via buzzer) leads to an open courtyard with some mature trees for shade and outdoor seating areas. The Spanish Colonial structure and tile pathway are crisscrossed with strands of white lights that give it a romantic vibe at night. Because of the property's small size, the young American owners (Carl and his wife) or a member of the staff will often come out to personally greet each incoming guest. After check-in, guests typically get a quick tour of the property.Bravo Beach has two parts: the oceanfront hotel section, and Casa Roja, a red building across the street housing apartment-style units. Guests at either property are able to use the amenities over at the main building: the two separate pools with lounge chairs, the breakfast area, and the honor bar. After the staff have gone home in the early evenings, the scene becomes even more peaceful, with maybe a guest or two watching the sunset at the infinity pool. This area closes at night, but the 24-hour Garden Pool next to the honor bar may attract younger guests (though families do not need to worry about a loud party scene). All guests are given a code to get in and out of the gates after hours. Besides occasional noise from roosters crowing and neighborhood dogs barking, Bravo Beach Hotel is a peaceful and laid-back retreat.

Vieques is a laid-back island off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, and is known for its wild horses and beautiful beaches. However, the narrow, rocky beach in front of the hotel, in the Bravos de Boston neighborhood, is not a notable example. The island’s biggest town, Isabel II, is within walking distance, and offers restaurants (including a fun taqueria), a few bars, shops, and grocery stores. This is the only direction worth walking in, as the other direction leads to a housing area that may have the occasional unfriendly dog roaming the streets. Vieques does have its share of poverty and theft (especially of camera equipment) so it's best to lock the car doors and always make sure rooms and balconies are locked.During check-in, staff provides a helpful map of Isabel II's highlights. A rental car is recommended to access other areas of the island, including better beaches (Balneario Sun Bay is a 15-minute drive, as is the Bioluminescent Bay). It takes 15 minutes to drive to the airport. There is a ferry that runs from Fajardo on the mainland, directly into Isabel II, but most locals and tourists agree it’s best to take a flight from San Juan (usually under $100 per person). Parking is free at the hotel.

This small property has 13 rooms in the main oceanfront section, and five apartments in Casa Roja, the red building directly across the street.Rooms have basic beachy decor -- tile floors, sturdy wood furniture, and in most rooms, fabric accents in blue, yellow, or green. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, air-conditioning units, and beach towels. Most have oceanfront views from balconies on the first or second floors, while a few have courtyard views (these are the cheapest). Though rooms show slight weathering and wear (such as older tile floors), the young American couple that bought the hotel from previous owners are making improvements over time. Decor is slightly different from room to room, and some rooms feel slightly more contemporary than others. Most bathrooms have walk-in showers -- some could use an upgrade -- with toiletries in eco-friendly containers. The honeymoon suite (La Luna de Miel) has a four-poster bed, direct views of the ocean, and an expansive private deck.Casa Roja is the newest addition to the property, offering five one- and two-bedroom apartment units with fully equipped kitchens, living/dining areas, and large furnished balconies, though there are no ocean views.

Though the beach here is nothing to brag about, the actual ocean views -- especially at sunset -- are quite beautiful. The oceanfront infinity pool in front of the property has lounge chairs for sunbathing and tables and chairs for enjoying breakfast. This area closes at night.The Garden Pool is behind the main building and sits in a quiet area. This is open 24 hours a day, and is next to the honor bar which offers self-serve cocktails, beer, water, and soda, but no wine. Guests simply write in their names and what they' have consumed, and pay cash upon departure. Both pools are cleaned daily.Beach items are free to use, such as coolers, chairs, and boogie boards. Umbrellas are also offered in the office, but there is a rental charge.Daily continental breakfast is served next to the infinity pool and includes coffee, juice, water, toast, cereals, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, and fresh fruit.Free Wi-Fi is offered in the common areas only, and it can be spotty.