El Gallito ( Gringo Beach )

Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico

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El Gallito, also known as Gringo Beach, is a small, compact beach on the north coast of Vieques Island, Puerto Rico, nestled between two rocky points along Highway 200 near the airport and the town of Isabel Segunda.

Its name "El Gallito" means "the little rooster" in Spanish, and despite the nickname "Gringo Beach," its origins remain unclear—some speculate it relates to the former W Retreat and Spa Vieques or U.S. military presence. This beach features golden to light tan sand (not the pristine sugar-white sand found on other Vieques beaches) and calm, often clear waters that make it excellent for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, surfing, and fishing, especially on calm days when the wind comes from the southeast.

The snorkeling on the eastern rocky point is particularly excellent when conditions are right. El Gallito is one of the easiest beaches to access in Vieques, with a paved road leading directly to it and parking right along the highway, plus some natural shade from overhanging trees. However, it has no amenities like restrooms, showers, or picnic areas, and visitors should bring all their own supplies.

The beach is relatively small and not very wide, the area near the point can have scattered trash, and water clarity varies depending on recent storms, but it remains reasonably clean and offers an authentic, local Caribbean experience rather than a polished tourist destination. It's a favorite spot for local Vieques residents, especially on Sundays for "Sunday Funday" gatherings with friends, and while traffic noise from the nearby highway can be heard, the sound of waves often masks it, creating a peaceful atmosphere for chilling and relaxing.