El Blok
What We Love
- The views of the Caribbean Sea and Vieques’s mountainous interior
- The wood-grilled fish and steaks at chef Jose Enrique’s open-kitchen restaurant
- Relaxing by the rooftop plunge pool with chef Jose Enrique’s signature cocktail (Puerto Rican rum, fresh-squeezed star fruit juice and ginger)
What To Know
- The 21 guestrooms are stylish but no-fuss; there are no TVs
- The vibe is casual, and going barefoot is encouraged
- Easy access to bike rentals, riding and hiking trails
- Children 17 and under are not permitted
- The bar opens at 5 p.m.
Amenities
- Adults Only
- Bar
- Free WiFi
- Handicap Accessible
- Parking On Site
- Pet-friendly
- Pool
- Restaurant
Overview
The Lowdown
The curved concrete four-story El Blok is the debut project of music executive Simon Baeyertz. Baeyertz’s intent was to create a simple, beachy retreat that’s big on relaxation and laid-back socializing. The guestrooms have floors clad with hidrolico tiles in a geometric pattern, and the hand-plastered walls are purposely left unfinished. All rooms have terraces with dramatic views and Magniflex organic hybrid foam mattress with colorful striped throws. The second floor of the hotel is a breezy open-air space that includes a bar and restaurant. Chef Jose Enrique’s eatery features versions of his lauded Puerto Rican dishes such as bacon and egg empanadas and seafood soup with coconut; his signature cocktail is made with Puerto Rican rum, fresh-squeezed star fruit juice and ginger — it’s best enjoyed by the rooftop plunge pool.
In the Area
The sole reason travelers flock to Vieques is the pristine white sand beaches — and if you’re not on the beach or appreciating the view, you’re napping or enjoying a cocktail or a casual meal. The small island boasts 40 beaches, and the concierge will give you insider tips on the best ones to visit if you’re not content with the one in front of the hotel. (However, chances are you’ll be happy to laze away your stay on-site.) If you are in the mood to dine out, the hotel isn’t far from El Quenepo, which serves a cosmopolitan take on traditional Puerto Rican fare. If you choose to tear yourself away from the beach, the 19th-century Count Mirasol Fort has art exhibits and an intriguing collection of Vieques artifacts, along with an amazing view of the island.
How to Get There
Reviews
We could not have been more thrilled with El Blok. It somehow manages to be be laid back, posh, ridiculously hip and simple all at the same time. The building's architecture is very sculptural and a treat in and of itself. The rooms are simple and small. Nothing fancy, but very functional and well thought out with private balconies. The roof top is charming with a pool that is basically hot tub shaped with fun floating flamingos and other touches. The bar and restaurant are great, offering some of the only fine dining on the island. Our bar tender was particularly charming and taught us to play one of the board games laid around the area. It's an easy place to just hang out. El Blok is at the tip of the strip of restaurants and bars in Esperanza and an easy walk to all as well as to lovely Sun Bay Beach. This visit was such a delight overall. Can't wait to come back.
We have stayed before and wanted to this time but the hotel was booked for our dates. This is our top choice on Vieques. Stay here if you can. We just came for drinks, which was great. Extremely friendly and accommodating staff. We will be back!
Excellent service, good place to have you dream vacation sadly we didn't stay longer. Good location in front of the beach. Walking distance to amazing restaurants. Rooms are clean and beautiful, perfect for a romantic get away... Love it. 110% recommend.