El Blok Hotel

"El Blok's curving, concrete, Brutalist-style building looks like it crash-landed from outer space, and its otherworldliness sets it apart on the island of Vieques, which is a 25-minute flight from San Juan. The perforated gray walls are reminiscent of coral, with light and shadows evoking the feeling a reef. The 26 rooms feel natural, modern, and minimalist, with furniture that wouldn't look out of place in a SoHo boutique. All rooms feature balconies and rain showers, and for the lucky voyeurs in the crowd, showers in most rooms are peek-a-boo. Placita, helmed by chef Alex Espinal, serves modern Puerto Rican cuisine, either fired in a mesquite grill or spun on a rotisserie, with dishes like grilled tuna over coconut basmati rice or pork shank with chimichurri. Two bars set two different moods: Rooftop is a cocktail hotspot featuring live music and DJs, and La Tertulia on street level features a fire pit." - Kathleen Squires

"El Blok has the laid-back attitude of a Caribbean resort with all the style of a modern, design-forward city hotel. Steps from the beach and the oceanfront walkway in the heart of the lively town of Esperanza, El Blok is in the center of all the island's action. The hotel's rooftop pool and bar offer panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, making it one of the best places in Vieques to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"What are your first impressions of this place as you arrive? El Blok's curving, concrete, Brutalist-style building looks like it crash-landed from outer space, and its otherworldliness sets it apart on the island of Vieques. The perforated gray walls look a bit like coral, with light and shadows evoking the feeling a reef—one that happens to be on dry land. Any interesting tidbits to note? This adults-only hotel was designed with sustainability in mind, and it has earned a LEED Gold certification to prove it. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? The 30 rooms feel natural, modern, and minimalist, with furniture that wouldn't look out of place in a SoHo boutique. All rooms feature balconies and rain showers; for the lucky voyeurs in the crowd, showers in most rooms are peek-a-boo. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? Wi-Fi is complimentary. What are our on-site dining options? Anything good? La Placita serves modern Puerto Rican cuisine, either fired in a mesquite grill or spun on a rotisserie; with dishes like grilled pork chops alongside pigeon pea risotto and locally caught lobster. Two bars set two different moods: Rooftop is is a cocktail hotspot and La Tertulia down on street level, “was born out of a need for our community to gather and share and heal post Maria,” according to management. A fire pit serves as the centerpiece for game nights and live music. What type of travelers will you find here? Cool, eco-conscious, bare-foot castaways. How do we get there? A 25-minute flight from San Juan or a 90-minute ferry ride Ceiba, Vieques draws visitors with its generously sandy beaches, bioluminescent bay and beautiful wild horses. However, travelers best heed El Blok website’s advice when it comes to the ferry: “Don’t listen to anyone who tells you otherwise or says [ferry tickets] can be purchased via the web or by phone. It’s just not so. Additionally, expect delays, long lines, limited access to bathrooms and refreshments while you wait and the possibility of being bumped off because of a large number of residents or boat malfunctions. Don’t even think of bringing a car over as those spaces are very limited. If we sound like Debbie Downer here it’s because she actually runs the ferry system. It’s a pain.  Fly if you can.” Is there anything you'd change? That ferry service. Once we're there, what stands out? The beach is just across the street. Bottom line: Why are we picking this hotel? For an honest, fashionable back-to-the-beach eco-stay." - Kathleen Squires

"El Blok’s strikingly modern aesthetic, pared-down vibe, and uncompromising comfort make it a surprising Caribbean find. Located in the small coastal town of Esperanza on the Puerto Rican island of Vieques, the 22-room hotel opened its doors in 2014. San Juan–based architecture firm Fuster + Partners is behind the cool, contemporary design, with concrete wrapping the exterior, a central light well illuminating the interior, and a rooftop pool drawing guests from the beach just across the street. The furniture was carved from locally sourced driftwood and hardwoods, and works by Puerto Rican artists Javier and Jaime Suarez decorate the common areas. Distinctive touches such as an after-hours vending machine, Aesop amenities, and an obsession with local coffee contribute to an alternative yet luxe vibe. Should you ever want to leave the property, the El Bike program enables guests to explore Vieques without renting a car." - AFAR Editors