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Not too long ago, the night sky of Isla de Vieques was filled with the afterglow of military tests. Now, the only glow you can find emanates from the famous bioluminescent bay and the stars in the night sky that hangs above this untouched slice of paradise off mainland Puerto Rico.

From World War II to 2003, Vieques was home to a US naval base. Many thought that any existing natural beauty of the island would have been battered and tainted by the military activity. On the contrary, the "close door" policy adopted by the US Navy during the sixty years of occupation actually deterred tourists and prevented the island from falling into the clutches of mainstream tourism, unlike many of its Caribbean neighbors.

For any would be traveler to Vieques, it would be prudent to base yourselves in either Isabel Segunda or Esperanza. A great way to get around this 21 by 6 mile island would be through renting a car from one of several agencies. Martineau Car Rental (787-741-0087) offers jeeps at $60 per day and Steve's Car Rental (787-741-8135) for $45 per day. A four-wheel drive is a must if you intend to negotiate through the rugged terrain to get to the best beaches on the island.

The three most popular beaches are designated with navy-styled color codes: Red Beach, Blue Beach and Green Beach (known to locals as Baha Corcho, Baha de la Chiva and Punta Arenas). A drive to one of these beaches might test your patience and your bones but what lies at the end of the journey is definitely worth it.

With the gazebos and kiosks lining the coastline, Red Beach is more family-oriented and one of the most popular on the island. The turquoise waters off the Red Beach are absolutely primed for scuba diving and snorkeling. Seekers of peace and solitude might want to head to Blue Beach, aptly named for its magnificent blue waters. Here, you can have a romantic beach walk without tripping over noisy kids and sun tanners. If you prefer a beach filled with flora and fauna, head to Green Beach. Besides being a great place for observing wildlife, the waters are great for snorkeling too.

As the boat moved, it left in its wake a shimmering blue-green trail.it felt like I was in a fantasy novel: a common anecdote from tourists who have had the opportunity to visit the "Bahia Fosforescente" or the Bioluminescent Bay. This natural phenomenon is due to the unusually high concentrations of bioluminescent dinoflagellates in the waters of Puerto Mosquito. It is best explored on a moonless night and boat tours typically last for two hours. Island Adventures Biobay Tours (787-741-0720) offers tours starting from $25.

You can absolutely have a safe swim and literally frolic among billions of these amazing creatures. Using words to describe this natural phenomenon really does not do it much justice. You really have to see it to appreciate its beauty. A picture taken of this unique experience would have friends back home thinking that you scored a role in a sci-fi flick!

For a unique perspective, challenge yourself to a mountain bike tour. With the island riddled with bike trails, a ride would definitely let you see the geological wonders and the pristine beaches of Vieques. La Dulce Vida Mt. Bike & Adventure Co. offers rentals starting from $25 per day.

Take a chance to visit Vieques and its wonderful landscape, the way nature intended it to be!

Learn more about this author, W.H. Garcia.
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