2 Best Hotels in Vieques and Culebra, Puerto Rico

The most sophisticated place in Culebra is an assemblage of lovely plantation-style cottages on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Fulladoza Bay. Though just a five-minute drive south of Dewey, it feels completely isolated—in a good way. Come here to unplug, opting for one of the spacious villas, tastefully decorated in crisp white with soaring ceilings, modern rain-showers, and large balconies. The family villa sleeps five. The friendly staff is more than accommodating and can help set up snorkeling and diving trips, as well as transportation to the beach.

Taking its name from a centuries-old tamarind tree rising more than three stories through the center of its main building, this plantation-style property—with a barrel-tile roof and wood-shuttered windows—was once a dance hall but is now one of the island's prettiest hotels. You can easily find a spot all to yourself, whether on a shady terrace or beside the pool. "Caribbean chic" may be the best description of the combination of well-chosen antiques, elegant wicker furniture, and vintage travel posters. The penthouse is the nicest room, with a separate entrance on the third floor and a massive private terrace overlooking the ocean. The made-to-order breakfasts are a great reason to get up early, and on-site horseback riding along the beach is a lodging perk.