Rustic Retreats and Island Luxury: The Top Five Hotels in Vieques

Quite simply, it's like nothing else on the island. The W Retreat & Spa, the first W retreat in this part of the world, does its best to respect its natural environment while offering the chic signature of the W. The result is a breathtaking hotel on the beach that's oozing rustic luxury, from the airy, minimalist rooms to the expansive, inviting lobby, to the secluded spa. The W Vieques is more than a hotel; it's a state of mind, an escape in the true sense of the word. Add a gourmet restaurant under the auspices of world-famous master chef Alain Ducasse, two gorgeous infinity-edge pools, a "European" beach where clothing is optional, and you've got an idea of the details that make this retreat beautiful, whimsical, and stylish.  

Harmony with nature is a consistent theme here. There are no windows in the rooms (mosquito netting keeps the bugs away at night), no air conditioner, and no elevators. The walls and floors are concrete. There are open-air showers. And the genius of its design is such that, while removing many so-called creature comforts, the Hix House doesn't sacrifice your comfort.

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The only hotel on this list in the town of Esperanza, the Malecón House is a chic boutique spot in the heart of the bustling boardwalk. Steps from the water and Esperanza's restaurants, shops and bars, the inn has ten beautifully appointed rooms in a modern minimalist style that's perfectly suited to island life. 

Don't come here if you want to watch TV, dine at a fancy hotel restaurant, or order room service. The Malecón House won't be for you. But if you want to embrace a Caribbean island experience in comfort and style, it will do nicely.