visit culebra island

The Ultimate Culebra Travel Guide

Updated March 2024 ,   the Ultimate Culebra Travel Guide was originally written in January 2017

Culebra is Puerto Rico’s little gem off the east coast with some of the world’s most stunning beaches and a fun relaxed pace. Are you looking for beautiful, idyllic beaches, yet laid back, sans designer store, and barely touched the Caribbean? Good, this is the place for you.

Sitting in between Puerto Rico and St Thomas, Culebra is geographically speaking a part of the Spanish Virgin Islands. Though Culebra translates out to snake island, the island is also nicknamed Última Virgen, meaning the  last virgin .

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Looking for more in Puerto Rico? Check out  Cabo Rojo

Getting In & Out

Culebra is officially part of Puerto Rico, and therefore, part of the US. You will most likely be arriving from the island of Puerto Rico. US citizens only need a driver’s license/state ID card and foreigners will, of course, need to enter using a passport.

You can arrive to Culebra by flight or by ferry. Due to the frequent breakdowns of ferries that leave people stranded and the difficulty in purchasing tickets, I strongly recommend spending the money to take the flight to avoid the upset and headaches.

The ferry takes about 60-90 minutes (depending on the ship) to travel between Puerto Rico and Culebra. This is the cheapest option, but the ferry comes with a few caveats.

Ferries used to depart from Fajardo, but since 2018 have been departing from Ceiba according to friends in Puerto Rico. Tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal office in Ceiba for about $2.50 one way or $5 roundtrip (plus plan to pay 0.60¢ per day for parking), however, many times the ferry is completely sold out (also worth noting is that residents of Culebra and Puerto Rico have priority over tourists on tickets) and it’s quite common for some of the ferries to be broken down and not in service.

I would advise booking your tickets in advance via Puerto Rico Ferries  to (hopefully) avoid any headaches.  If you are combining a visit to Culebra with Vieques you can also take the ferry between Vieques and Culebra as well.

The sea can be notoriously rough between Puerto Rico and Culebra, so if you are prone to sea sickness I would try to avoid the ferry, or at least prepare yourself for the worst. I also do not recommend the ferry for those on tight schedules as you should expect hiccups getting to/from Culebra.

More expensive but more efficient and predictable. Air Flamenco &  Vieques Air  offer connections to Culebra from both Isla Grande Airport and Ceiba Airport.

Ceiba is the cheapest option as it is lies on Puerto Rico’s east coast. The flight lasts about 15-20 minutes and will set you back $99 roundtrip. Expect to pay a little more from Isla Grande.

Being part of the USA the currency is, of course, the US dollar.

There is one ATM on the Island at the Banco Popular in Dewey near where the ferries dock. Otherwise, just stock up on cash before leaving Puerto Rico. Cash is still the favored form of payment here, however, several grocers, shops, and restaurants around Dewey accept Visa and Mastercard.

Tipping at restaurants is expected just like anywhere else in the USA. 15% is the norm.

The lines can be a little blurred here. You can spend a lot and live a little more luxuriously or you can kick around on the backpacker budget, though not quite as dirt cheap as you’ll find in Southeast Asia or Central America.

Considering that this is the Caribbean and the natural beauty of some of the beaches Culebra really is a bargain for what you get. From tent camping to lovely villas, walk or cycle the island or rent a golf cart…. you have plenty of options here that will fit most any budget.

Accommodation

You have a plethora of options here considering just how small the island is.

Your cheapest bet will be camping on Flamenco Beach. Camp slots are $20 per night with up to 6 people allowed to stay at each site. There are restrooms available albeit online reports say they’re pretty dismal.

If you don’t have your own camping gear don’t sweat it, gear can be rented nearby. As well as there are a few food kiosks just in a little way from the beach (trust me, you can’t miss them). Want more info on camping in Culebra?  Check out Camping Culebra .

Recommended Hotels/Hostels

Budget Culebra International Hostel | Culebrahostel.com |

Midrange Posada La Hamaca |  Booking.com  |

Splurge Club Seabourne Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

There are also several Airbnb listings around Culebra, you can shop them  here .

Where To Eat

There are several small shops and grocery stores around the island where food and alcohol can be purchased if you’re trying to save. Expect similar prices to what you pay in Puerto Rico.

There are also several restaurants and bars around the island, expect to find dishes priced between $3 on up to $25 or more. There are prices to fit most budgets around in Culebra.

Cheaper options can be found at Zaco’s Tacos, El Panino, and Tiki Grill. Personally, I think my favorite dish I sat down to in Culebra was at the Krusty Krab, the grouper there is perfect.

Transportation

From my experience on Culebra, I personally recommend renting a golf cart from either  Carlos Jeep Rental  or  Jerry’s Jeep Rental . A golf cart will run you about $45/day. You can’t beat having the wind whip through your hair, plus it’s a blast. Jerry’s also rents scooters for the same price per day.

Another, slightly cheaper option is bicycle rental. Start by calling 787-645-5355 (La Romana Apartments) where bicycles can be rented for $20/day or $120/week.

The most expensive option is renting a full-on jeep from either of the aforementioned rental companies. Expect to pay $70+/day.

Official public transit doesn’t really exist here. There are Publicos around the island operate as taxis, expect to pay $3-5 depending on the length of the journey.

What To See & Do On Culebra

Beaches, beaches, and more beaches. Of course, catching a nice sunset, snorkeling among some pretty pristine corals, and kicking back are going to be the most popular.

The roughly 30 square kilometer island is home to about 1,800 residents, with Dewey being the main town on the island. This is where your main concentration of shops, hotels, restaurants, bars, and the ferry terminal are located. It’s fairly small, so no need to worry about getting yourself too lost here. For those traveling in by air, the airport is located just slightly north from Dewey.

Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach is regularly ranked as one of the top 10 beaches in the world. A long strip of sugary white sand with turquoise crystal clear waters lapping at its shores.

A main draw is checking out the tank further down the beach. It’s been covered in colorful graffiti and is a must-see if you end up out here.

The US navy used to use Culebra as a bombing and gunnery practice site and were eventually chased out, and this a remnant. There is also another tank hidden back in the trees off the beach as well.

You can camp a little back from the beach, find out more  here .

A nice, normally fairly quiet beach on the eastern side of the island. On a clear day, you can see clear over to  St. Thomas . But don’t worry if you don’t have perfectly clear skies, you’ll still be able to take in views of nearby Cayo Norte and Isla Culebrita.

Isla Culebrita

Isla Culebrita can be reached by renting a private boat (will run you about $150-200 for the day). If you think the beaches back in Culebra are quiet, these are barely touched. You may have it to yourself.

Going to the USVI too? Plan your visit to  Trunk Bay, St. John

Playa Tamarindo & Playa Melones

Both on the west coast, nearly right next to each other and usually pretty calm. Perfectly situated for a great sunset. Bring your bug spray, the sand fleas come out in full force at dusk.

Parallel park your golf cart on one of the roads and walk around Culebra’s compact little town. A number of shops, restaurants, and bars are all located along the main streets here.

Snorkeling/Diving

Stroll into a dive shop in Dewey and you can easily set up a trip, or if you have your own snorkel gear you can venture out from your chosen beach. Don’t worry if you’re a meticulous planner- you can book snorkeling trips in advance  here . There are plenty of good places to snorkel- check out that map earlier in the post for dive sites.

Shop Culebra snorkeling trips here

Culebra is super safe, even at night. Head down to any of the beaches and listen to the waves crash ashore and gaze up at the night sky. Flamenco is a great option for a nighttime visit as it’s far enough away from Dewey that there’s not tons of light pollution. You’ll probably even run into some families out camping and some fisherman.

Short on time?

If you only have a day to spare on your trip to Puerto Rico and want to see Culebra, a great option for you is to take a catamaran day trip from Fajardo. These types of tours will set you back about $120 For a visit to Flamenco as well as other beaches on the island, snorkeling, and lunch.

Check out Culebra day tours  here

Culebra is generally a pretty safe place. Just use the usual precautions and you can avoid most unfavorable situations.

Health Concerns

Mosquitos and roosters are about the only two nuisances around the island. Mosquitos can carry Dengue out on Culebra, so make sure to bring bug spray. Zika is present in Puerto Rico in general as well.

Roosters mostly will wake you crowing at the morning sun, but sometimes they can be a little aggressive and steal food right off your plate at a restaurant (I witnessed it).

Internet & Phone

Most US carriers will work and coverage falls under your US plan. Wifi is available at most hotels.

Other Important Information

• English and Spanish are spoken throughout Culebra.
• Culebra is a part of Puerto Rico, meaning that it is also part of the USA. Check out the  US gov website  to find out if or what sort of visa you may need to visit.

Have Any Questions About Traveling Culebra?

Ask in the comments sections below!

More Posts from Puerto Rico and the Caribbean:

How To Visit Trunk Bay From St Thomas

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How to get to Maho Beach (the Airport Beach) from the Saint Maarten Cruise Port

Two Days In Santo Domingo & Boca Chica

The 16 Best Things To Do In Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

10 Day Dominican Republic Itinerary

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico Travel Guide

6 thoughts on “the ultimate culebra travel guide”.

VERY helpful, I decided to book the plane from San juan to bulebra, thank you nicole

Oh good, hope you had a great time out there!

Hi Nicole, I work remotely so internet speed and reliability is critical. Do you have some information on what I might expect. Thank you, Jeff

Hi Jeff, Mobile coverage on the island is generally good, though outside of Dewey you can expect some spots where mobile internet isn’t as strong (in Dewey I always had at least LTE). In Dewey most all accommodations have wifi available too.

Hello, My family and I were planning to visit Culebra in April of 2022 but its my understanding that they are have been having serious seaweed problems that the government is not addressing. I understand many islands are having this problem. Check this video out and if you have any comments I would appreciate it.

Check this video out:

https://youtu.be/BJ1a7mmUmz0

Hey Bill, I did see the news about the sargassum problems in the area last summer. It’s hard to say what it will look like by April 2022, but hoping for the best for your trip!

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Things To Do In Culebra – Your Complete Travel Guide

Home to Flamenco Beach, one of the best beaches in the world, and amazing snorkeling, it’s no wonder why Culebra is one of the most beautiful islands in  Puerto Rico . From where to eat and the best things to do in Culebra, we have the ultimate Culebra travel guide waiting for you below!

In this article we share the best advice on where to eat and the best things to do in Culebra. Whether your spending just one day on Culebra or have a few days to spare, this slow-paced Puerto Rican island will give you the tropical getaway fix you’ve been fiending for..

Things To Do In Culebra, Puerto Rico

There are lots of exciting things to do in Culebra but it is always a good idea to research all the exciting things to do when you visit the white sand beaches of this small island, or anywhere for that matter.

Proper planning will help you budget more effectively so you can fit as many activities and adventures in your holiday as you can.

Jump Ahead To:

Visiting Culebra – Planning Tips

Ok, so first things first, you’re probably wondering how to get to Culebra, Puerto Rico , right? Well, we have a complete guide on the best ways to get to this tropical island paradise. Be sure to check that out so you know what transportation option is best for you.

Moving on….

So, there are a few things we want to call out about Culebra before we jump into our “what do on Culebra” list.

• How Big Is Culebra | About 7mi (11km) long and 2mi (3km) wide
• Culebra Bombing | Yes, bombing. The US Navy used the island of Culebra as gunnery and bombing practice site. Not all bombs have been accounted for so when snorkeling or hiking, please use caution.
• Culebra ATM | There is one ATM on the island. Located by the ferry terminal, Banco Popular, is where you can get some cash.
• Culebra Grocery Store | Colmado Carniceria Milka is a great spot to grab a few essentials, just expect minimal selection.
• Culebra Gas Station | If you decide to rent a jeep, you may need to top off. Total Villa Pesquera and Dakiti Gas Station are your options.

If you’re looking to venture off of Culebra island, check out our full Puerto Rico itinerary!

How Many Days Do You Need In Culebra?

A day trip to Culebra is possible if you want to see the highlights, like snorkeling and Flamenco Beach.

However, if you want to get a feel for the best Culebra has to offer, we recommend spending at least 2-3 full days on the island.

Check Out: 13 Amazing Things To Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Spend a Day at The Famous Flamenco Beach

Ok, first up on our list of things to do in Culebra is Flamenco Beach. Ranked among the top beaches in the world, Flamenco Beach is an absolute must-see when visiting Culebra.

Located about 3 miles from the Culebra Ferry terminal, Flamenco Beach is about a 10-minute jeep-ride away.

Spend your day tanning on its soft white sandy beaches, swim in the crystal clear waters, and take a walk down the beach to the abandoned, painted military tanks.

Flamenco Beach Good To Know’s

• Flamenco Beach Admission : $2 per person + parking ($5 per jeep, $4 per golf cart)
• Beach Rentals: If you need some beach chairs and umbrellas, you can rent these from a few vendors located right next to the parking lot and just before the main entrance of the beach. Beach chairs and umbrellas are $5 each.
• Flamenco Beach Food : There are a few food kiosks located right next to the main beach entrance. We promise you won’t go hungry or thirsty.
• Lockers & Storage : There are lockers you can rent if you are needing to store items that can’t get wet or sandy. The locker fee is $5 for a small locker and $10 for a large one. (It’s ideal to avoid leaving anything important in your rented jeep or golf cart.)
• Flamenco Beach Snorkeling: Home to some amazing snorkeling, you can rent a mask and snorkel at one of the kiosks at the main beach entrance for $15.

NOTE: A few no-nos for Flamenco Beach are no glass bottles, no animals (like dogs or horses), and no bonfires or grilling on the beach.

Check Out: Puerto Rico Vacation Planning and Travel Guide to get great travel tips to plan your ultimate Puerto Rico vacation.

Flamenco Beach Camping

Located just behind the beach you’ll find a camping area where visitors can pitch a tent for the night. The fee is $30 per night/per two-person tent.

The campsite offers basic amenities like drinking water, showers, and bathrooms making it a lodging option for those wanting to get up close and personal with the flora and fauna of Flamenco Beach.

If you’re looking for ab accommodation right on Flamenco Beach that’s not a campsite, book your stay at Casona 1D for the perfect beach getaway.

Don’t Miss Happy Hour at Dinghy Dock

If an open-air beach bar offering up amazing views of the bay filled with sailboats sounds good to you, then Dinghy Dock is your spot. With happy hour specials on food, beer, and booze, an ice-cold beer at Dinghy Dock is a must when visiting Culebra.

Check out: Santurce Street Art – A Guide to San Juan Graffiti Neighborhood

Book a Scuba Diving Trip

Culebra is home to some of the best scuba diving in Puerto Rico and with two dive shops located on the island, booking a two-tank dive is a no-brainer.

If you’re looking to book a scuba diving trip, Aquatic Adventures or Culebra Divers are who you should call. Both shops offer two-tank dives for around $120 and that includes lunch.

Or, you can check out Sea Ventures Pro Dive Center for more details on their 2 tank dive options to Culebra.

Whichever company you go with, Scuba Diving is not a bad way to spend a day, if you ask us!

Swim With Sea Turtles at Tamarindo Beach

The second most popular beach in Culebra is Tamarindo beach. Why do you ask? Well, because of its sea turtle population.

Located about a 10 minute jeep ride away from the Culebra Ferry Terminal and 6-minute jeep-ride away from Flamenco Beach, Tamarindo beach is a snorkeling paradise.

A part of Cayo Luis Peña Nature Reserve, Tamarindo Beach is nowhere near as developed as Flamenco Beach but that’s also part of its charm.

You’ll find no rental or food kiosks here. Meaning, whatever you need for your day here, you must bring those items with you. But, the natural beauty of the spot makes it worth it.

NOTE: Tamarindo beach is a safe haven for sea turtles so PLEASE do not touch them or feed them and please pick up your trash.

Grab a Coffee at Blac Flamingo Coffee

A little sleepy from all that island sun? Well it sounds like you need some fuel. Make a pitstop at Blac Flamingo Coffee for a little pick-me-up.

From expertly made lattes and espressos to artisan breakfast options, Blac Flamingo Coffee is a quaint coffee shop that has an amazing hipster vibe.

A perfect way to start the day if you ask us.

Visit Culebrita Island

Isla Culebrita is a small island off the east coast of Culebra. This island is uninhabited and you can reach it by taking a water taxi since it is very close to Culebra. The tiny island is part of the nature reserve so it is also a wildlife refuge for wild animals.

On this island, you can go and visit the Culebrita Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the Caribbean. The island also offers beautiful sandy beaches to walk and lots of beautiful scenery to explore.

Just be sure to clean up any trash to keep your trip environmentally friendly.

Rent a Jeep and Explore The Island

If you’re looking for the best way to explore and get around the island of Culebra, we definetly recommend renting something with four-wheels. For us, that was a jeep!

There are two jeep rental agencies on the island, Carlos Jeep Rental and Jerry’s Jeep Rental . Costing anywhere from $50 – $75 a day, a jeep is a great way to see the island and beach hop.

If renting a Jeep is be a little too pricy, both locations offer Golf Cart rentals as well for around $40 a day.

While renting a car is the easiest way to explore the island, a car is not 100% necessary. If you want a more active way to explore Culebra, consider renting a mountain bike. Give Dick & Cathie Bike Rental a call (787) 742-0062.

Visit Cayo Luis Pena

This is another small uninhabited island off the west coast of the island. You can take a water taxi to the island and enjoy nature walks, snorkeling, and swimming. No visitors are allowed to stay overnight since the island is a wildlife refuge but it is still a terrific spot to spend your day if you love peace and quiet.

There any many exotic species native to here as well, so wildlife lovers will absolutely be at home.

Book a Culebra Tour or Rental

If you’re looking for some extra fun in the sun, consider booking a Jet Ski for a few hours.

If you want something a little more chill, some paddle boarding or a fishing trip might be more your speed. Or perhaps you just want to cruise the beautiful waters of the Caribbean with a boat tour. If that’s the case, give Gammy’s Water Tour a call.

Regardless of what you do, just be sure you get plenty of beach time in. Culebra is an island after all 🙂

Visit the Other Beaches

Flamenco beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island but there are many other beaches to visit and explore. Each of these beaches offers something unique in terms of clean water, natural beauty, and tranquility. Some of the best beaches to explore include Zoni Beach, Melones Beach, Playa Tamarindo Grande Beach, Playa Sardinas Beach, Playa Resaca beach and many others.

Some of these beaches like Melones Beach or Tamarino Grande Beach are considered hidden gems because they are not as populated and they do look completely different from the normally white sand beaches such as Zoni beach.

If you have the time, each beach is totally worth checking out.

Check out the History Museum

It is always good to learn about a location’s history. The Museo Historico de Culebra is an ideal spot to visit if you want to know more about this island. This museum isn’t particularly large but it does offer quite a few interesting things to see.

Here you can learn about how the island used to be the site of Camp Roosevelt.

Where to Eat In Culebra?

Looking for a few Culebra restaurants to check out to get your fill of tasty food? Well, we have a list of some popular places to grab a meal just below.

• For Beach Bar Food and Good Vibes: Dinghy Dock
• Fresh Seafood & Caribbean Eats: El Eden
• For a Taco Fix: Zaco’s Tacos
• Organic, wholesome fare: Vibra Verde
• For a Burger: Tiki’s Grill
• Coffee and Breakfast: Blac Flamingo Coffee
• For a Slice: Heather’s Pizzeria

Culebra Nightlife & Bars

Culebra, Puerto Rico isn’t known for its nighttime adventures. The nights here are mostly peaceful with not too many things to do. If you’re looking for a night out on the island, we definitely suggest a beer (or four) at Dinghy Dock. Offering live music and great views of the bay, let’s just say we spent many blissful hours here.

If you want a few other places to check out to get your nightly libations on, Mamacitas Guest House, The Spot, and El Batey are a few other great bars on Culebra.

Is Culebra Safe to Visit?

With the island being so small, crime is not a real issue in Culebra. You’ll want to use caution when driving as some of the island roads are bumpy and not well maintained though.

All in all, there was never a point when we felt unsafe. Just use common sense by keeping valuables out of sight and locked away and you shouldn’t have a problem.

The most dangerous part about visiting Culebra is probably the snorkeling. Even though the waters are clear and shallow, you still need to practice caution to stay safe. The rocks can be pretty sharp and there are also predators (keeping a respectful distance will also keep you safe).

When traveling to any new place, its always a good idea to make sure you have proper insurance to protect yourself if something happens. We have travel insurance through World Nomads and we will say, it has come in handy a time or two.

Where to Stay on Culebra

• The Luxury Inclined:    The Seabourne Hotel offers private balconies and bay views, making this hotel perfect for relaxing. With an easy to access dock and signature rum cocktails, a few days at Seabourne will have you feeling right.
• The Budget Conscious:   Hotel Kokomo is located in the center of town close to the ferry terminal, restaurants and bars. Offering private rooms with AC, Kokomo is a great place to call home for a few days.
• Something in Between:   Mamacitas Guest House is situated along a water way. With an onsite restaurant and bar, Mamacita’s is a great location on Culebra.

For more accommodation choices and places to stay on Culebra,  you c an check the latest place and prices here to secure an unforgettable Puerto Rican accommodation.

WANT MORE INFORMATION ON PUERTO RICO?!

9 Can’t Miss Day Trips from San Juan

13 Amazing Things To Do in Old San Juan

The Best Bars & Nightlife in San Juan

The Best Places to Eat in San Juan

Santurce Street Art – A Guide to San Juan Graffiti Neighborhood

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For more travel tips, guides and awesome travel shots, be sure to poke around our site, follow us on Instagram  @wanderingstus ,  Pinterest  and on  Facebook . Oh and if you have any questions, let us know in the comment section. We’re happy to answer. Or, just leave us a positive note!

Happy Travels,

– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stüs)

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25 Best Things To Do In Culebra, Puerto Rico (2024)

• Things To Do

Culebra is a small island located off the east-coast of Puerto Rico’s main island.

It’s home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and incredible marine life.

I’ve been living in Puerto Rico for the past 14 years, and Culebra is always my go to place for a vacation.

In this article, I will cover the 25 best things to do in Culebra, Puerto Rico:

1. Visit Flamenco Beach 

Culebra is well known for its award-winning Flamenco Beach.

The water is crystal clear, and the sand is pure white.  

Below is a video of Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico:

Flamenco Beach is also a great place to snorkel and scuba dive.

You can read more by checking out our article Flamenco Beach – All You Need To Know .

2. Snorkel with the turtles

Snorkeling with sea turtles is an experience like no other. 

Upon snorkeling the beautiful scenery and calm, turquoise waters of Culebra, you’ll find yourself swimming with manta rays, abundant sea life, and sea turtles! 

Tamarindo beach and Melones beach are where you’ll snorkel with the sea turtles. 

Below is a video of what it’s like to snorkel with the turtles in Culebra:

Check out other places to snorkel in Culebra and Puerto Rico in our article 25 Best Snorkel Spots In Puerto Rico .

3. Visit Culebrita

Did you know that Culebra has a smaller island off the coast?

It’s called Culebrita. It’s a lovely deserted island that’s only a short water taxi trip from Culebra.

It’s part of the Culebra’s National Wildlife Refuge, there’s only one man-made building on the island, and it’s an antique lighthouse. 

You can also sign up for a tour that will take you there or rent a charter boat or kayak there. 

Below is a video of Culebrita island: 

For information about exploring Culebra, read our article 12 Best Tours & Excursions In Culebra .

4. Museum of History

Visiting El Polvorin museum is something fun for both adults and kids to enjoy! 

You’ll appreciate the concise history of Culebra and its distinctive heritage.

You’ll also see displays of local “ Tainos ,” such as children in wooden canoes, at Museo El Polvorin. 

The museum also displays Navy items from when Culebra was utilized as a test site for bombs.

5. Scuba diving

With abundant coral reefs, colorful fishes, and other marine life, scuba diving is popular here in Culebra.

Many tour companies offer scuba diving tours, and they will provide all of the necessary equipment. 

The average depth of the dive sites around Culebra is about 30 feet, so it is perfect for beginners. 

Culebra is a beautiful place to go scuba diving, an experience you will never forget.

Below is a video of what it’s like to scuba dive in Puerto Rico:

Check out the 30 Best Scuba Diving Sites in Puerto Rico , where Culebra made the list a few times.

6. Culebra National Wildlife Refuge

The Culebra National Wildlife Refuge protects more than 20% of Culebra.

This includes extensive lengths of shoreline and all of the island’s surrounding islands, such as Cayo Luis Peña. 

Established by US President Theodore Roosevelt in 1909, you can explore various beaches, dry woods, mangroves, and seagrass beds.

This refuge also serves as a home for endangered sea turtles and is one of the Caribbean’s greatest seabird breeding sites.

7. Explore the Mangrove Forest

Locals have started rebuilding mangroves along the Culebra beach to maintain the natural ecology. 

Visiting the Culebra mangrove forest will give you an understanding of the important function of mangroves in fostering marine and coastal habitats for endangered seabirds and sea turtles.

Be careful not to harm the creatures in the mangrove forest while you’re there.

8. Visit the beach tank

Perhaps the only thing more famous than the white sand and turquoise water at Flamenco beach is the rusted, graffiti-covered military tanks that stand on the shore. 

The tank, a throwback from Culebra’s time as a naval base, has become one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic and photographed landmarks. 

You can find this tank by taking a left upon entering the beach and walking to the far end of Flamenco Beach.

Below is a video of the famous beach tank found in Flamenco Beach:

9. Relax at Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo Beach is Culebra’s second most famous beach.

Tamarindo Beach is a unique shoreline in Culebra, with a combination of light golden sand and vast walkways of pebbles and coral stone washed ashore by the sea.

Tamarindo Beach, which is part of the Cayo Luis Pea Nature Reserve, is not as developed as Flamenco Beach but that is part of its attractiveness.

10. Enjoy local cuisine

Culebra is home to some delicious local cuisine you should take advantage of.

You won’t find any chain restaurants here.

Instead, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh, authentic Puerto Rican food. 

The seafood is delicious here, as Culebra is right in the heart of the Caribbean. 

So try local dishes in Culebra – you won’t be disappointed!

11. Admire a sunset at the beach

If you’re looking for a truly stunning sunset, Culebra is the place to be.

There’s something about the gentle waves and the warm sand that makes watching the sun go down an unforgettable experience.

Culebra is the perfect place to watch the sunset because it is so secluded. 

It is a special moment that you can share with your friends or loved ones.

Watching the sunset at Culebra is an experience that you will never forget.

12. Surf at Playa Zoni

Zoni Beach, located on Culebra’s northeastern shore, is one of the most beautiful beach experiences you will have in Culebra. 

Because of its white sands and blue seas, Zoni is equally as attractive as the famed Flamenco Beach. 

Below is a video of Zoni Beach in Culebra:

If you love to surf, Zoni Beach is the perfect place to be when visiting Culebra.

Make sure to bring your surfboard!

If you are looking for other surf spots, then check out our article about the 10 best surf spots in Puerto Rico .

13. Check out the public library

Culebra’s public library is open to anyone and is excellent for book swapping.

Across the open-air patio, you’ll find a little movie theater where you can see current films and eat buttery popcorn that they present twice a week.

You also get free internet access and a computer lab.

14. Dive with a divemaster

If you’re thinking about diving in Culebra, it’s worth considering doing so with a divemaster. 

In Culebra, many divemasters are familiar with the area and can help you find the best spots to dive. 

They’ll also be able to provide you with tips on how to stay safe while diving and what to look out for. So if you’re looking for a divemaster in Culebra, book a diving tour. 

It could make all the difference to your diving experience!

15. Kayak around the beaches

Kayak around the beaches of Luis Pena Cay, where the sea is quiet and clean. You’ll want to stop along the road to soak in all the beauty.

You can paddle around at your own pace, stopping to swim or explore whenever you like. 

Kayaking is also a great way to meet other people interested in the outdoors. 

So if you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend your day, be sure to go kayaking around the beaches in Culebra.

16. Paddle board at the beach

Paddle boarding is a great way to get out on the water and enjoy the incredible views of Culebra’s beaches. 

The turquoise waters and white sand beaches are truly stunning, and paddle boarding is a great way to enjoy them. 

And because you are standing on the board, you have a great view of the fish and coral below.

Be sure to bring your snorkeling gear to take a break to admire the beautiful sea world underneath you.

17. Rent a private boat

Chartering a private boat is the best way to see Culebra. 

You can customize your itinerary to suit your interests, whether you want to spend time snorkeling, fishing, or just exploring the island. 

Chartering a boat also gives you access to parts of Culebra that are inaccessible by land, like remote beaches such as Tortuga beach and uninhabited islands like Culebrita. 

So if you’re looking for an authentic Culebra experience, chartering a private boat is the way to go.

18. Visit the bioluminescent bay

If you’re staying in Culebra, you must visit the neighboring island of Vieques to see the bioluminescent bay.

Vieques is only 15 miles from Culebra; you can take the ferry from Culebra to Vieques at certain times of the month .

You can read our article to learn how to get to Vieques . 

Mosquito Bay is full of single-celled organisms called dinoflagellates that light up when disturbed, creating an unforgettable experience. 

Learn more by reading our article about Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays .

19. Scooter around Culebra

Scootering around Culebra is the best way to explore the island. 

You can quickly get to all the beaches and attractions without having to walk or take a car. 

Scooters are also more environmentally friendly than cars, so you can feel good about reducing your carbon footprint while on vacation. 

So if you’re looking for a fun and efficient way to get around Culebra, rent a scooter during your stay.

20. Visit Playa Carlos Rosario

Carlos Rosario Beach is one of the most incredible beaches for diving or snorkeling.

With its calm seas and variety of flora and fauna, you’ll be amazed when discovering the underwater reefs on one side and the lush, thick flora on the other.

Below is a video of what Carlos Rosario beach looks like: 

Since this is an undeveloped beach, I recommend bringing everything you need, like snacks, food, and water, for a comfortable stay.

21. See the colorful fish at Melones Beach

Melones Beach is another beach perfect for snorkelers to visit!

This is not the best beach for bathing because of its rocky bottom.

The finest snorkeling location is just over the boulders on the right side of the beach. 

Below is a video of what it’s like to snorkel on Melones beach:

You’ll be floating over a coral reef garden home to a diverse tropical fish population with striking stripes and colors.

22. Enjoy a private beach at Brava Beach

Brava Beach is another perfect beach for surfers .

It’s a 30-40 minute hike to reach Brava Beach, but it’s worth it once you arrive at this hidden gem.

Hiking to this beach is part of the fun; you’ll wander through mangroves and vegetation and immerse yourself like this island.

This beach is not ideal for swimming due to its large waves and fierce waters.

Below is a video of what Brava beach looks like: 

If you’re not a surfer but love hikes, you’ll enjoy dipping your feet in the calm waters and exploring the stretch of beach, which is almost always empty.

23. Rent a Jeep or golf cart

If you’re planning to stay in Culebra for more than a day, enjoy the experience of exploring the island in a rented Jeep or golf cart.

The island is your oyster when exploring on your own.

You can rely on something other than taxi vans to go anywhere. 

It’s great for getting around the island’s many beaches, especially if you like to beach hop. 

24. Happy hour 

Happy hour is the perfect way to wind down after a long day of exploring. 

Culebra is a beautiful island, and there’s no better way to enjoy its stunning views than with a refreshing drink in hand. 

Happy hour is also a great time to socialize with other travelers and get tips on where and what to see. 

25. Book a tour

The best way to ensure you’re getting the whole experience of exploring Culebra is to book a Culebra tour.

Consider booking a jet ski tour for a few hours, renting a private charter boat to visit the cays and islands, or even a fishing trip!

FAQ section

What are some free things to do in culebra.

There are few free things to do in Culebra. You can visit Flamenco Beach or Playa Tamarindo for free.

What are some things to do in Culebra at night?

Culebra nights are more peaceful and not famous for its nightlife. You can visit the bars like Dinghy Dock to listen to live music, or visit Mamacitas Guesthouse and visit its tropical bar.

Final thoughts

Culebra is a small island in Puerto Rico that you must visit.

With so much to offer, you’ll never want to leave this island. The best things to do in Culebra are Flamenco Beach and snorkeling.

I recommend dedicating an entire day to visiting Culebra, starting early in the morning and returning back to the main island later in the evening. 

If you have a few days to spare, rent an Airbnb and a Jeep so you can really enjoy the magic Culebra has to offer.

I also recommend that you visit the neighboring island of Vieques to see the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world; this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Miguel Concepcion

Writer at PuertoRico.com. I’ve lived in Puerto Rico for 14 years and have experienced every inch of this stunning island. Growing up in Puerto Rico has helped me truly learn about the rich culture and extensive history this island has to offer. I share my local knowledge in all of the articles that I write.

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Culebra’s Best Things to Do & Places to Visit Puerto Rico – 2024 Guide

Culebra Puerto Rico   ⎜ Things to Do in Culebra

Save a Spot – Popular Tour to Culebra

Instead of seeking a WiFi Zone in Culebra, plan on bringing plenty of sun lotion, an underwater camera, and snorkel gear, you’ll have amazing experiences worth sharing with friends and family after you leave.

Culebra is not your average Caribbean vacation destination, there are no fancy man-made attractions here, and that’s exactly how both resident and repeat visitors prefer it.  The main attractions in Culebra are the ones that nature alone created, the ones that remain untouched and unharmed by development and tourism exploitation.

In Culebra visitors are allured and captured by the simplicity and richness of attractions that only God could create.  There are a few other attractions such as the museum where you can get to know more about the history of Isla de Culebra.

Visiting Advise - On your own or with a tour guide?

On your own:   If you’re staying on the east coast of Puerto Rico , go to the Ceiba ferry very early so you can get the earliest ticket and have more time in Culebra.  Buy round-trip tickets!  There’s so much beauty in Culebra, we highly recommend you stay two nights, rent a jeep and explore. 

Culebra with a Tour Guide / Charter:  If you’re only visiting for a day, we encourage you to book a tour that covers all the details so you can make the best of your time in Culebra and Puerto Rico .  We have provided you with top-rated tours specific to attractions and activities.  You may have to book a transfer from San Juan to Fajardo , where most tours depart to Culebra.

Time Needed in Culebra

A day trip to Flamenco Beach in Culebra is on the list of best things to do in Puerto Rico .

If you are staying in Culebra, we recommend you stay at least two nights to explore the coastline and enjoy the best snorkeling under the Puerto Rican flag.  A full week is perfect to see the top beaches, snorkel, and hike the trails at a relaxed pace.

Culebra may be small, but the beauty and enchantment keep many coming back year after year.  Once you visit the beaches of Culebra and Vieques you’ll be spoiled for life.

Swim, Snorkel, Relax & Play at Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach is the main attraction on the island of Culebra.  Included on the  world’s best beaches lists , this ought to be your first stop and one you can’t miss.  Your greatest issue at Flamenco may be convincing yourself to leave in order to explore the rest of the island.  Be sure to walk to the left end of Flamenco to see the Navy tanks, bring your snorkel gear to explore the reefs, and of course taste the traditional food at Flamenco kiosks.

+ Flamenco Beach - Culebra, Puerto Rico

Top Rated Tours to Flamenco Beach from Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Go snorkeling in culebra.

Culebra is one of the best snorkeling destinations in the Caribbean, one of the few islands left with a healthy coral reef system.  We both love and hate to tell you about it, people tend to destroy these treasures for lack of education and conscience.  Culebra welcomes you to enjoy our reefs but kindly begs that you help us preserve our reefs by never touching, stepping, anchoring, fishing, or taking anything away.

The best beaches for snorkeling on the main island of Culebra are Carlos Rosario ,  Melones ,  Tamarindo ,  Flamenco , &  Punta de Soldado .

Top Rated Snorkeling Tours to Culebra

Book a day trip to culebrita.

The offshore island of Culebrita is a mini Culebra with its own enchantments… The crystal clear waters surrounding Culebrita are captivating with water as clear as glass tinted in turquoise and emerald green.  In Culebrita you can enjoy the Jacuzzi / Tidal Pools, and take a hike to the lighthouse ruins.  A charter guide is the best way to enjoy the best of Culebrita, they’ll take you to Tortuga Beach and the best snorkeling spots.  

Top Rated Tours to Culebrita Island 

From Culebra

From Fajardo

Get Lost & Explore the Island

Many travelers staying on the main island of Puerto Rico head to Culebra for a day trip with Flamenco Beach as their main attraction on the list.   We invite Culebra’s visitors to rent a jeep or golf cart and simply take a few hours  to drive around the island.  Once you drive around, we are confident you’ll join the long list of travelers that come back for the island’s enchanting allure.  You’ll be making many stops along the way, you’ll want to photograph colorful homes, the beautiful Ensenada bay, the green rolling hills, spectacular sweeping vistas of the coastline dotted with sailboats… and the chicken crossings.

Culebra’s beaches are turtle nesting sites, the sand on the shores are home to sea and land creatures.  You’re welcome to explore our island, we just ask that you’re a good guest by helping us protect our shores.  Please don’t drive or park on the sand, that includes dirt bikes and golf carts.

Go Kayaking in Culebra

Kayak on the west coast beaches along the Luis Pena Cay, the waters are calm and very clear.  You’ll want to pause along the way to take in all the wonder around you…you’ll wanna take a kayaking break to put on your snorkel gear in order to explore the gardens below the surface.  Book a tour with a friendly knowledgable tour operator for both safety and making the most of your time in Culebra.

Top Rated Kayaking Tours in Culebra

From Ceiba 

For Visitors Already in Culebra

Get to Know Culebra’s History at Museo El Polvorin (Museum)

On your way to Zoni Beach, be sure to stop by El Polvorin Museum   where you can learn about the history of Culebra, watch a few documentaries, and purchase some great souvenirs and books to take home.

+ Museo El Polvorin  - Culebra, Puerto Rico

The island offers various hiking trails leading to gorgeous secluded beaches with excellent snorkeling and scenic views along the way.  Some of the popular hiking trails lead to  Brava Beach ,  Resaca Beach  (more difficult), and Carlos Rosario.  The offshore island of Culebrita offers various hiking trails to lighthouse ruins with heavenly views.

Go Scuba Diving in Culebra

Culebra and its archipelago of islands offer about 50 dive sites from shallow to 75 feet with excellent sea life and pristine conditions.   Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced diver, Culebra will overdeliver expectations.

+ Scuba Diving Charters

• Culebra Divers  +1 787-742-0803
• Culebra Snorkeling and Dive Center  +1 787-435-3662
• Aquatic Adventures   +1 515-290-2310

Scuba Diving Tours in Puerto Rico

Have fun counting sea turtles.

Glide alongside turtles on the beaches of Flamenco and Tamarindo Grande, beautiful beaches with magical experiences underneath the surface.  If you don’t see any turtles at Flamenco, then head over to Tamarindo Grande, typically there’s a higher number of them there.

Watch the Sunset

You spent a full day in Culebra, take a half-hour to just sit down and admire a live unique painting being brushed and unveiled right in front of you…one more memory to add to a perfect day in Culebra.  Head to  Melones Beach , one of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset with easy access.

Go Fishing in Culebra, Puerto Rico

The waters around Puerto Rico and its offshore islands like Culebra are teeming with sea life.  Coral reefs and shallow waters lure in predators like bonefish, tarpon, snapper, jack, snook, grouper, and king mackerel.

There are charters available for fly fishing or light tackle fishing for these types of fish.  If you desire to go deep-sea fishing, charters are available that target tuna, sailfish, wahoo, kingfish, barracuda, and mahi-mahi.

– Culebra Bluewater Charters – 201-654-5290

Paddleboarding in Culebra

While Condado Lagoon in San Juan is a very popular destination for paddleboarding in Puerto Rico, those wishing for more tranquil settings head to the Spanish Virgin Islands of  Vieques and Culebra.  Culebra’s waters on the west coast around the Nature Reserve are calm.  Paddleboard on your own, schedule lessons, or go on a guided tour.

• Bright Paddle – +1 787-710-4324
• Culebra Snorkeling & Dive Center – +1 787-435-3662

Go Surfing in Culebra

The few that get to ride the waves on these waters prefer to keep the best spots as a secret, various spots are only accessible by boat.  Mamacita’s Guest House offers surfing classes for all ages on our pristine beaches.   Here is a nice article on Culebra surfing.

Boating & Sailing in Culebra

Culebra is actually an archipelago made up of 18 islands, cays, and keys, making it a preferred destination for sailors and boaters.  Schedule a boat charter for more excellent snorkeling spots, fishing, and the opportunity to visit more beautiful beaches only accessible by boat. Be sure to make it to Culebrita, there you can enjoy a day basking under the sun at Tortuga Beach, and go for a hike up to the ruins of one of the oldest lighthouses in the Caribbean.

Bicycling in Culebra

The island of Culebra is small offering easy access to popular beaches that can be reached by bike for those that enjoy the sport.  There are various hiking trails perfect for mountain biking for avid riders.  For those on a tighter budget, bicycling is a great option to explore the island.

Birding “Birdwatching” in Culebra

While you enjoy the beaches in Culebra or take a nature walk on the trails you can observe and hear the sounds of native birds.  Culebra is a National Wildlife Refuge providing a safe place for a diversity of migratory birds throughout the year, a great place to go bird watching.

More Things to Do on the Main Island of Puerto Rico

San juan puerto rico.

• San Juan Puerto Rico – Things to Do
• Best Day Trips from San Juan
• Romantic Things to Do in San Juan Puerto Rico  
• Food & Cultural Experiences in San Juan
• Puerto Rico – Top Things to Do
• Puerto Rico East Coast
• Puerto Rico North Coast
• Puerto Rico West Coast
• Puerto Rico South Coast

Puerto Rico   ⎜ Culebra Puerto Rico   ⎜ Things to Do in Culebra

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17 Best Things to Do in Culebra Puerto Rico [2024]

LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO IN CULEBRA PUERTO RICO?

You’ve come to the right place! We enjoyed a wonderful trip to Puerto Rico and were so glad we had the chance to explore Culebra Island. Located just off the east coast of Puerto Rico, Culebra Island is full of some of the world’s most stunning beaches with a laid-back atmosphere. 

Visiting Culebra was one of our favorite parts of our trip to Puerto Rico. On our next trip, we are planning on camping at Flamenco Beach, so we have a little more time to enjoy the beautiful island, delicious food, and enjoyable atmosphere. 

Until then, we’re happy to share with you some of our favorite things to do in Culebra, Puerto Rico, as well as some tips to help make your adventure top-notch! Taking some time to explore Culebra will be well worth your time, we promise! 

Things to Do in Culebra Puerto Rico 

Culebra Island is best known for its unspoiled beaches and while you should plan on spending lots of time at the beach, there are other fun things to do and places to explore on the island of Culebra. It is a quiet island with lots of activities to enjoy in nature.

1. Flamenco Beach 

The easiest and most famous place to recommend is Flamenco Beach . It is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful top beaches in the world, and within a few footsteps on the beach, you will see why. One of the island’s main attractions it’s a horseshoe-shaped beach surrounded by green rolling hills and beautiful blue water.

Because of the limited access to Culebra, Puerto Rico, the beach was not very busy while we were there. The waves were the perfect size to let Rowen and Raven swim in the turquoise water. Snorkeling is also a popular activity on the beach. A visit to this beach is definitely one of the best things to do in Culebra Island, Puerto Rico with kids. 

There are bathrooms at the beach and some small changing rooms. Toilet paper was not always stocked in the bathroom, so it would be a good idea to bring some of your own. We love taking these compact travel toilet paper rolls .

Just outside the beach gates, there is usually a truck renting chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear. There is also a small food court with picnic benches just inside the beach gates.

In addition to playing on the beach, be sure to check out the military tanks. They are found on the west end of the beach and in the brush behind the beach.

2. Luis Peña Nature Reserve – Tamarindo & Carlos Rosario Beaches

Luis Peña Nature Reserve is a nature reserve that protects the coral reefs, seagrass beds, and the mangrove forest in the area. The reserve includes both Tamarindo and Carlos Rosario beaches and is a popular place for scuba diving. 

Tamarindo Beach 

The main highlight of Tamarindo Beach is snorkeling. There are parts of white sand beaches here, but it is mixed with pebbles and pieces of coral, making it not quite as soft and nice as Playa Flamenco.

The beach is about a mile long and has beautiful ocean views. The water is pretty shallow for about five feet out but then drops off.

The water is very calm, which makes it a great place for kayaking. This is the most popular place to see sea turtles in Culebra. It is a safe haven for the turtles, so remember to keep your distance! Manta rays and other species of fish are often spotted here too.

The coral reefs are beautiful and a sight to see for sure! Kayaking and looking for wildlife through Luis Peña Marine Reserve is one of the most fun things to do in Culebra, Puerto Rico. 

Keep in mind there are no rentals and facilities at Tamarindo Beach. You will need to bring your own food and snorkel gear. There are lots of parking spots available.

Carlos Rosario Beach 

Carlos Rosario Beach is often considered the best place to go snorkeling in Puerto Rico. It’s usually pretty quiet and makes for a peaceful beach experience. That said, be prepared for some rocks and other ocean debris on the beach. It’s not our favorite beach, but the exceptional snorkeling makes up for it. 

There is a beautiful reef that circles the entire cove. There is usually good snorkeling out by the boat buoys on the left. Be on the lookout for the sign showing the snorkeling areas. Expect to see lots of live corals and Caribbean marine life. If you’re lucky, you might see a turtle or stingray.  

If you’re up for a trek, you can walk from Flamenco Beach to Carlos Rosario Beach. The route is about a mile up a hill and then back down to get to the beach. If you’d rather travel by water, you can kayak there or catch a ride on a water taxi. 

3. Zoni Beach 

Zoni Beach is located on the eastern side of the island and is considered the second most popular beach on Culebra Island. It is a beautiful beach with amazing shades of blue. If you’re looking to avoid potential crowds at the famous Flamenco Beach, this is a great option.

The best time to visit the beach is at low tide. The water is calmest from spring until early fall. There are no facilities here, so make sure to bring your own food, sunscreen, and snorkeling equipment. There are some rocky parts at the beach and in the water, so make sure to bring some good shoes.

4. Explore Culebra National Wildlife Refuge 

The Culebra National Wildlife Refuge is about 1,480 acres and 23 islands! The refuge makes up more than 20% of the island of Culebra. If you decide to visit the refuge you can anticipate some amazing hiking, birdwatching, and quiet beaches. This is one of the best places to go in Culebra!

The refuge is also an important habitat for the endangered sea turtles as well as a variety of different seabirds. It is home to more than 50,000 birds, and your family will love spotting new ones throughout your adventure in the refuge! 

5. Visit Culebrita Island

Culebrita Island is one of the smaller islands off the coast of Culebra and is home to Playa Tortuga. It is a small, uninhabited island with no public transportation going to it. To get there, you will either need to charter a boat or join a local tour.

The boat ride over is about 25 minutes, and you may just have the place to yourself. This is one of our favorite Culebra activities!

The beach on Isla Culebrita is similar to Flamenco Beach but much more secluded. You can spend the day snorkeling, lying on the beach, and exploring the island. A unique point of interest on the island is the ruins of the old Culebrita lighthouse.

The tour also includes the use of snorkeling equipment, beach chairs, and umbrellas. This tour does leave from Culebra so you will need to make sure you have plans to already be on the island by the time the tour leaves.

▶️ BOOK Culebrita Boat Day Trip

6. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding  

Kayaking and paddleboarding can be some of the most serene or playful ways to enjoy time on the water in Culebra. The calm waters of Tamarindo Beach make it an amazing place for both activities.

Remember, there are no rentals available at Playa Tamarindo, but there are some available at different locations around the island. 

7. Go Snorkeling 

The island of Culebra has some of the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico. One of the best places to go snorkeling here is Flamenco Beach. You can easily get to the first reef from the shore. There are usually quite a few people snorkeling on days with calm waters.

Another popular place to snorkel at Flamenco Beach is Shark Cages. You can find the reef here on the right of the beach, where the rocks start. If you don’t have your own snorkel gear, you can rent it at Flamenco Beach.

If you want to snorkel a little off the beaten path on Culebra, Tamarindo Beach is also a great place to visit. There are calm waters here and a wide range of sea life. It is very common to see turtles and stingrays there, as well as a bunch of different kinds of Caribbean fish.

The beach at Carlos Rosario is a secluded yet beautiful place to snorkel on Culebra Island. It is part of the Culebra Nature Reserve, which helps protect underwater life. There is a trail from the parking area that goes down to the beach. 

Melones Beach is another excellent location for snorkeling if the other Culebra beaches don’t fit what you’re looking for.

If you’d rather snorkel in a guided experience, there are some amazing tours offered on Culebra. Culebra Island Snorkel with Turtles Adventure would make for an amazing family memory during your Puerto Rico family vacation. 

▶️ BOOK Culebra Island Snorkel with Turtles Adventure

8. Go Boating 

One of the best ways to experience Culebra is on a boat. Many catamaran and other tours like All Day Beach & Fun Experience by Catamaran are ready to whisk your family around the beautiful island.

This type of experience allows you to capture some of the island’s best highlights while some also offer additional fun, like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking, too! 

▶️ BOOK All Day Beach & Fun Experience by Catamaran

9. Go Hiking 

Though Culebra is known for some of the best beaches, so much beauty and splendor can be enjoyed on the land as well. For those not looking for anything too strenuous, there’s a simple loop around Flamenco Lagoon that offers excellent views of the area. 

As we mentioned before, the hike from Flamenco Beach to Carlos Rosario Beach is the best way to break a bit of a sweat before enjoying the joys of the beach. And don’t forget, some of the most lush and rewarding hiking on the island can be explored at Culebra National Wildlife Refuge. 

10. Go Fishing

Even anglers will be happy in Culebra! Fishing charters are popular here, so if you’re interested in sinking a line during your vacation there definitely are resources to do so.

The island’s shallow bays have made it a popular destination for fly fishing, especially during the winter months. Bonefish can be challenging to snag, but you might be lucky! 

Deep sea fishing for barracuda, tuna, and sailfish is one of the great things to do in Puerto Rico Culebra. Even spearfishing is okay in Culebra, so that makes for an adventure in and of itself! Best of all, fishing licenses are not required, so check that one off your list! 

11. Explore the Island on a Bike  

If you’re looking to get around the island in a fun and healthy way, consider renting bikes during your visit. Biking is one of the most fun things to do in Isla Culebra, Puerto Rico, because it’s such a free and easy way to make your way from place to place and allows you to enjoy the weather and landscape up close. 

There are a few places you can rent bicycles from on the island at a reasonable rate. 

12. Visit the Culebra Museum of History 

If you’re interested in learning more about the history, culture, and ecology of Culebra, a visit to the Museo Historico de Culebra (Culebra Museum of History) is well worth your time. The small museum has exhibits that focus on the island’s unique history, covering the indigenous Taino residents and the military occupation.

It is a free museum, but donations are always welcome.

13. Take a Tour 

Joining a tour is a great way to visit Culebra. You get the benefit of letting someone else do the planning, and you get to sit back and relax. Plus, I also love all of the knowledge and experience guides share during the tours. We always learn so many cool and interesting facts.

If you are interested in joining a tour, there are tours leaving from San Juan or Fajardo on the main island of Puerto Rico, or you could meet up with a tour group when you are already on the island of Culebra.

Culebra Tour Leaving from San Juan

This tour includes pickup and drop-off in the San Juan area of mainland Puerto Rico, which is very convenient if you don’t have a rental car. After pickup, you will take a private boat over to Culebra.

A great choice for beach lovers, you get to visit two of the most popular beaches, and the use of snorkel equipment and instructions are included. Plus, lunch is included!

▶️ BOOK Culebra and Flamenco Beach Snorkel Tour from San Juan

Culebra Tour Leaving from Fajardo

If you have your own transportation or are going to be on the east side of the main island, you can book a tour leaving from Fajardo. Fajardo is about an hour east of San Juan.

This tour focuses on the great snorkeling spots around Culebra. You will get to visit two different spots on Culebra.  

Lunch is included, as well as some alcoholic beverages. Snorkeling equipment, as well as transportation to Culebra, is included in the tour.

▶️ BOOK All-Inclusive Culebra Snorkeling Trip from Fajardo Tour

Things to Do in Culebra Puerto Rico at Night 

Culebra, Puerto Rico, is a small town, so there’s much of a nightlife scene aside from a few bars that stay open a little late. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Culebra PR at night, check out these fun spots. 

14. Dance the Evening Away at Dinghy Dock 

Dinghy Dock is a Culebra favorite for a good time. It’s a wonderful open-air beach bar to devour some tasty seafood, enjoy a beer, and the bay views, all while live music fills the air.  

We weren’t able to visit in the evening, but we did enjoy lunch at Dinghy Dock. In the clear water, there are giant tarpons that often eat diners’ leftovers. Rowen and Raven loved watching them swim while eating their lunch. 

15. Let the Evening Slip by at Mamacita’s Restaurant and Bar 

Mamacita’s is a no-frills eatery where the atmosphere is casual. The food isn’t anything to write home about, but it can be a fun, lively spot to hang out in the evenings in Culebra. 

16. Grab a Drink at The Spot

The Spot is a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. A small island bar, their drinks and fun company are known to be amazing, but there isn’t much seating inside.

Don’t be surprised if you stop by and see everyone hanging out on the street and the steps leading into the bar. 

17. Make Friends with the Locals at El Batey

If you’re looking for a fun sports bar atmosphere with a local flair, check out El Batey! They have flat-screen TVs to watch if there’s a big game you want to check out. Or you can jump into a game of pool yourself or take it to the dance floor! 

How to Get to Culebra Puerto Rico

Working out the logistics of getting to and from the island can be a little tricky, depending on your travel plans. If you take some time to do your research and plan, you won’t run into many difficulties.

You can get to Culebra, Puerto Rico, by either airplane or boat. The major deciding factor in this is cost.

The easiest and fastest way of traveling to Culebra Puerto Rico, from San Juan is to fly. There are flights leaving out of the airport in San Juan. It is a very short flight with stunning views of Puerto Rico and Culebra Island.

The Culebra ferry is a much cheaper option but doesn’t have a convenient San Juan departure. You would need to make your way to Fajardo, which is about an hour east of San Juan, to take the ferry. 

The last option is to join a tour that is going to Culebra. What is very nice and convenient about many of the tours is a lot of them offer pickup and drop-off from the Old San Juan area. If you don’t want to rent a car or aren’t comfortable driving, this is a great solution. 

Culebra by Ferry

There are two different types of ferry options when traveling on the Culebra Puerto Rico ferry from Fajardo. The first is the passenger ferry. The ride takes 45 minutes, and the boat travels fast. The second is the cargo ferry, which moves slower and takes about 90 minutes. 

The waters along the boat ride can be rough, so if you or anyone in your family struggles with motion sickness, it is a good idea to bring some Dramamine . We would also recommend the slower ride for any family prone to motion sickness. We did not have any problem with motion sickness on the cargo ferry.

A ferry ticket to Culebra is $4.50 per person for a round-trip. It’s a great price, but the savings comes with some trade-offs. If you are planning to purchase tickets at the ferry terminal you should arrive no later than 90 minutes before the departure time for the best chance to be able to get tickets. 

We got there about an hour early on a weekend. We were able to get tickets for our desired departure time, but the return time was full, so we ended up leaving the island later than we originally planned. Make sure you purchase a round-trip ticket to ensure you have a way to get back to the main island.

If you decide to take the ferry, just know that you will need to be flexible with your schedule and overall travel plans. 

Culebra by Air 

Flights to Culebra from San Juan are usually around $40 each way. You will save a lot of time going by airplane. The flight time is about 10 minutes. You can buy tickets through Air Flamenco or Vieques Air Link. It is a good idea to buy tickets ahead of time as each plane only has ten seats available.

If you are on more of a budget but still want to fly, you can fly out of Fajardo. This will require you to get to Fajardo, which, again, is about an hour east of San Juan. So, there is a time commitment associated with this choice.

You can rent a car to drive over to Fajardo or hire a taxi to take you over.

Where to Eat in Culebra Puerto Rico 

In addition to Dinghy Dock, we also ate at the Krusty Krab . It’s another seafood restaurant, but it’s well worth a stop in. 

It has a casual flair to it, as the menu is written on a chalkboard and is always changing. If the fish tacos are on the menu, order them! They were delicious and came in a very large serving size. Keep in mind this is a cash-only restaurant, so be prepared. 

Other popular spots to eat around town include Zaco’s Tacos and Tiki’s Grill !

Where to Stay in Culebra Puerto Rico

There are not any large resorts or hotels in Culebra, Puerto Rico, but there are a handful of small hotels and private rentals. If you are interested in a private rental or hotel, Cozycozy is a great resource for finding a place to stay on Culebra. On the site, you can compare a wide range of bookable Airbnb, apartment, hotel, and bed and breakfast offers.

El Navegante de Culebra 

⭐️ Rating 8.8/10 | 📍 Location : 254 Calle Pedro Marquez in Culebra | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

A great hotel option in the heart of Culebra is El Navegante de Culebra . It is two miles from Flamenco Beach. There is an onsite restaurant and bar. Plus, each room comes with air conditioning and WiFi.

They offer a variety of modern rooms ranging from standard queen bedrooms to standard triple rooms, which have a twin bed and full bed. It is also close to restaurants and is a quiet area.

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at El Navegante de Culebra  

Club Seabourne Hotel

⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍 Location : State Road #252, Playa Sardinas II Ward in Culebra | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

If you’re looking for a place outside the city, Club Seabourne Hotel is another great option. It is two miles from the town center and four miles from Flamenco Beach. There’s also an outdoor pool and hammock; it’s a perfect place for relaxing in the beautiful Culebra weather.

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Club Seabourne Hotel

Camping on Culebra Island

If you want to save money on accommodations or spend more time outdoors, you can bring your RV and stay at many of the great nearby RV parks and campgrounds. If that’s the case, we recommend checking out The Dyrt, the #1 camping app. The Dyrt Pro has so many great resources to make planning your trip so easy:

• Take advantage of PRO Membership discounts to save up to 40% on campground costs
• Plan camping road trips with the Trip Planner
• Find free dispersed camping locations
• Use the Dyrt app anywhere with offline access

We have arranged with The Dyrt to give the CS Ginger viewers a FREE 30-day Trial using the code “csginger.” Normally, the trial is 7 days!

Tips For Visiting Culebra Puerto Rico

Transportation on Culebra Island

Public transportation does not really exist on the island. Taxis operate throughout the little island and charge $3-5 depending on the length of the ride.

If you are just looking to see Flamenco Beach, there are shuttles that will take you from the ferry terminal to the beach. The shuttle prices are about $5.00 per person per way. Depending on how many people you have and how you want to spend your time on the island, this is a simple option.

We rented a Jeep for about $45 from Carlos Jeep Rental . In addition to car rentals, they have golf carts available. The golf cart rental costs less money, but if you have a car-seat-aged child, you are not able to rent the golf carts. It is nice to have air conditioning in the jeep.

There is a shuttle that will take you from the ferry terminal to Carlos Jeep Rental. It isn’t bad on foot either if you want to spend some time on a short walk wandering the streets of Culebra, Puerto Rico.

Internet and Phone Coverage on Culebra Island

Most United States phone providers will work on the Caribbean island and fall under your US plan.

Safety and Health

Mosquitos can carry Dengue as well as Zika in Puerto Rico, so make sure you bring adequate bug repellent.

We used Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent while we were there, and it worked great. We did not get any mosquito bites and had a good user experience. They carry both spray and lotion versions.

▶️ SHOP Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent

Toilet Paper

Toilet paper is sparse on the island. Most of the restrooms we visited did not have any, so we recommend bringing your own. We love the compact rolls that easily fit in a backpack or purse.

▶️ SHOP Toilet Tissue To Go

Power Outages

You can expect power outages while visiting Culebra, Puerto Rico. They are a common occurrence on Culebra, so it’s wise to be prepared. While we were eating dinner, the power went out and the restaurant continued running as normal.

Cash Availability

There is only one ATM on the Culebra, Puerto Rico so bring some cash with you. Some places only accept cash, so it’s essential to have some on hand. Some of the grocers and shops do accept Visa and MasterCard.

FAQ: Things to Do in Culebra Puerto Rico

Yes! Culebra is a tiny island, and most people are happy and hospitable to tourists. As long as you use caution, the same as you would traveling to any location, to keep an eye on your belongings and practice common sense you should be all set!  Also, when driving around the island, remember to use caution on rocky and dirt roads. Some roads aren’t maintained as well, and you don’t want to put your Culebra Island adventures on hold due to road troubles!

No, you cannot drive from San Juan to Culebra . The only way to travel to Culebra from San Juan is by flight. Ferries are an option as well if you’re willing to commute to Fajardo. 

Air Flamenco and Vieques Air Link are the main airlines that transport passengers from San Juan to Culebra. 

Culebra Island is approximately 115 km from San Juan. Flights can get you out to the island in a manner of minutes, and the ferries can do the same in 45-90 minutes. 

We recommend spending a couple of days on Culebra Island. This will give you a chance to enjoy the most beautiful beaches, head out snorkeling, take a scuba dive adventure, and enjoy the downtown area. Staying on the island overnight will give you a more local and authentic vibe to the island rather than rushing on and off in one day.

The best time to visit Culebra Island is from November to March. The climate is dry with mild temperatures, perfect for swimming in the ocean. You will also avoid the monsoon season, which usually leads to humid temperatures.

The weather on the island of Culebra is beautiful year-round . The average temperature is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

The most popular place to see turtles in Culebra is at Tamarindo Beach and Luis Pena Marine Reserve .

Conclusion: Things to Do in Culebra Puerto Rico

Culebra, Puerto Rico, is a wonderland of pristine beaches and adventure. We had such a fun time exploring the island and hope this guide can serve as a helpful framework while planning your own trip. Here’s to enjoying all the amazing things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico! 

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Candice Steele is the owner of CS Ginger, a blog that helps travelers explore the United States in their RVs. Since 2017, she and her family have been providing valuable insider tips about travel experiences suitable for families. They love exploring the country in their RV and offer helpful insights to make RVing easy and family-friendly.

12 Comments

I need to put Puerto Rico on my bucket list. Yummy food and so many beautiful beaches. It looks like you guys had the beach to yourself, what a great trip!

We would definitely recommend it. Puerto Rico is the perfect mix of culture and beaches without needing a passport! We were spoiled to have the beach almost completely to ourselves.

We really enjoy go to one of most Beautiful beaches we had so much fun the water was the most beautiful colorI love being their in Puerto Rico at Culebar beach we will go back.

We want to go to Culebra again as well. There is a campground just a few steps away from the beach that we want to stay at.

Beautiful beaches, great people. I love the west side of the Island, Aguadilla, Rincon, Isabela. Great waves for water sports. We ended up buying a condo in Aguadilla. Not by the water but have ocean view.

Oh how awesome. We are hoping to go back in the next year and spend more time on the west side of the island. We heard it was so beautiful over there.

Can I purchase an umbrella on the island?

Hi Beth Ann. You can rent an umbrella right at Flamenco Beach if that’s where you’re planning on going. If you’re wanting to use it for a longer period then I would recommend bringing an umbrella over from the main island.

This is a very complete guide. Puerto Rico is on our list so will get back once we can travel again!

I’m glad you found it helpful Ilse. Puerto Rico is such a beautiful place and you can’t beat the beaches there. I hope you get to visit soon.

Thanks for the tips on Culebra, we will be visiting in 2 weeks! Check out my travel site for some tips too!

Oh fantastic! We loved it there so much. We want to go camping there the next time we go back. Have a great trip!

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Isla de Culebra, Puerto Rico Travel Guide

By: Author Vagrants of the World Travel Writer

Posted on Last updated: October 12, 2023

Home >> Destinations >> Isla de Culebra, Puerto Rico Travel Guide

Located approximately 30 km off the east coast of the Puerto Rico mainland , Isla de Culebra (which translates to “Island of Snakes” in Spanish) is one of 143 islands that belong to Puerto Rico. However, only Isla de Culebra and the island of Vieques are inhabited.

Table of Contents

Isla de Culebra Travel Guide

In this guide, we’ll explore the island, how to get there, things to do in Culebra, as well as the best time to visit, and how to make the most of your trip.

Why Travel to Isla de Culebra?

If you’re already traveling to mainland Puerto Rico, making an effort to travel that bit further to Isla de Culebra will reward you with an old-school Caribbean relaxed vibe and some of the best diving and snorkeling in Puerto Rico, so don’t forget to pack your favorite scuba mask . 

If you have spent any time snorkeling on the west coast or near San Juan , you’ll notice the waters of Culebra are calmer and full of turtles, starfish, and other tropical and exotic fish.

There is no need to worry about safety in Puerto Rico or on the island. Isla de Culebra is a great place for independent exploration. Thanks to its small size, it’s easy to hire a jeep or buggy to explore the island on your own.

Another great reason to travel to Isla de Culebra, the island has some of the best weather in the Caribbean. It is not surprising, so many Americans choose to spend the winter months in Culebra.

There are over ten beaches, including some which may be a little more difficult to reach but are wonderfully secluded. There are also the smaller islands of Culebrita (meaning “Little Snake”), Cayo Norte, and Cayo Luis Peña.

Travel Tips for Isla de Culebra

Best time to visit isla de culebra.

With the island’s climate best described as semi-arid, as well as the overall small size, Isla de Culebra receives less rainfall than the mainland.

Temperatures are consistently between 82°F and 90°F most of the year, although these can rise as high as 95°F in the summer months.

Culebra is great to visit all year round. However, much like the mainland of Puerto Rico, a popular warm weather winter escape from the US , the best time to visit is in the winter dry season between late November and June for a rain-free trip.

Even in the rainy season between June and November, levels rarely reach as high as 150mm in any month. Showers are usually isolated, lasting a few hours at most. 

Sometimes, a bit of rain in these humid and hot areas of Latin America is like a breath of fresh air, so it is better to welcome them rather than detest them.

Be mindful, the months between June and November are also the official hurricane season in the Caribbean with the peak time starting from August. 

How to Get to Isla de Culebra

When looking at the map, Isla de Culebra may seem difficult to reach but is relatively easy to do.

Ferry to Culebra

There are two options for reaching this beautiful island. The first (and most economical way) is to take a ferry from Fajardo, which is roughly a 45-minute drive from the capital San Juan.

How to Get To Fajardo

Local buses are the cheapest but slowest and can be unreliable. There is a shuttle service from the airport, or your accommodation could arrange for a local driver. Expect around $80 one way for a taxi and approximately $45-$50 for an Uber. 

Purchase a ticket from the ferry terminal at Fajardo. The ferry trip will take around an hour and a half and may include a stop at Vieques Island first. Be aware, the ferry to Culebra is very unreliable and rarely leaves on time, so be patient. 

You will arrive in the southwestern portion of the island, commonly known as “Dewey,” where you will find dive shops, restaurants, and golf car rentals and  the Hotel Kokomo  adjacent to the ferry exit.

Fly to Culebra

The other, more expensive way is to fly into the small airport on the island.

The Culebra airport only has a domestic route that arrives from San Juan (good for connection when arriving in the country) and also La Ceiba.

Find the Best Accommodation Deals in Culebra

Things to do in Culebra

Discover the best things to do and see on the island, including some smaller cayes and more off the beaten track trips you can take.

Isla de Culebra is full of fantastic beaches, and one of the best is the Flamenco beach.

Ranked year after year not just the best beach in Culebra but as one of the top beaches in the world. The pristine white sand beach blends perfectly with the multi-colored hues of the Caribbean Sea for a postcard-perfect island setting.

Great for both diving and snorkeling, the island was once used for military training, which is why an abandoned tank lies on the shoreline . A popular photo opportunity for visitors.

Other cool beaches include Playa Resaca and Playa Brava; however if you are strapped for time, head to Playa Melones, which is closest to the ferry port. A lovely beach with swimming-friendly waters.

Best Beach Safety Gear : Relax on the beach without worrying about your valuables. We have found the Best Beach Safe Solutions for a stress-free day by the pool or at the beach.

Isla de Culebrita

The island of the little snakes sits just off the eastern coast of Culebra, so it is a bit of a trek to get to. Uninhabited, it has some cool gems to visit and can easily be done as a day trip from the main island.

You can access the small caye by water taxi, which will cost around $60 per person and will pick you up at an arranged time.

In Culebrita, you can visit an old abandoned lighthouse that has been out of service since 1975 by following the trail path from where the water taxi drops you. It should take about 20 minutes. You can also visit Tortuga beach, which is frequented by green turtles hence the name.

Museo Histórico de Culebra

Perhaps not the first thing you would imagine yourself doing on a tropical island. However, a visit to the Isla de Culebra museum is an excellent break from the heat and a nice change from the beaches.

Learn about the history and story of Culebra. The museum has ancient artifacts of the Taíno (indigenous peoples of the Caribbean who lived here) preserved despite the arrival of the Spaniards. It also covers the history and presence of the military who made the Puerto Rican Islands their home.

Experience Real Island Life

As soon as you arrive, you will feel time stop, and the Caribbean chill tempo will take over. Sometimes the best thing to do is just relax with a margarita on the beach.

At the beach, it is possible to try jet-skiing, surfing, or even kite-boarding. Grabbing a bike and exploring by yourself at your own pace is also nice, and as mentioned, you can also hire a jeep or golf cart to see more of the island.

Isla de Culebra: Off The Beaten Track

The most popular thing to do in Culebra is to head to Flamenco beach, with its pristine turquoise waters and infamous tank. Also, depending on how much time you plan to spend here and your budget, you should check out Isla de Culebrita for a more off the beaten path experience by hiking around the island, checking out the lighthouse and looking for nesting turtles.

Another great thing to do is hire a golf cart, and head up to the quieter sides of the island. Head up to the north coast to join one of the small snorkeling tours. It is an excellent opportunity to swim with turtles, sting-rays, and a myriad of exotic fish.

It’s relatively cheap, and while you can also do it independently, the locals always know the best times and places for the best possible marine life sightings. 

Ready to Visit Culebra? 

We have delved into “the Island of the Snakes,” which is just a short ferry ride over from the Puerto Rico mainland.

We have explored the things you can do and see, short day-trips, how to get to the island, when is the best to go, and some off the beaten track recommendations.

If you are thinking of visiting Puerto Rico, plan a side trip from busy San Juan to visit Culebra Island for more relaxed vibes. Culebra is one of the most beautiful islands in Puerto Rico and is 100% worth a trip.

About The Author

Daniel James

Daniel from Layer Culture is a cultural traveler based in Colombia who dedicates his time to learning Spanish whilst exploring life in both Central and South America.

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Things to do in culebra – puerto rico’s laid back island.

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Just 17 miles east of Puerto Rico is a small and laid back island of Culebra. This unspoiled piece of Caribbean, is an ideal place to get away from the noise and unwind. The tiny island of Culebra is where you won’t find any big resorts, fancy restaurants or raging night life. In fact, there isn’t much going on after dark. Even though there aren’t many things to do in Culebra, you can easily fill many days with visiting different beaches (there are 13 of them), snorkeling, sunbathing and boating.

Culebra is best know as being the home of Flamenco Beach, often voted as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. For that reason alone, both locals and tourists take a day trip the main island of Puerto Rico, to enjoy the famous beach. And while Flamenco Beach is, in fact, unbelievably beautiful and worth the trip, there’s so much more to Culebra than that.

Flamenco Beach might be the star, but the island has 12 more stunning and unspoiled beaches and if you plan a longer trip, you can visit them all. After spending a week exploring this incredible island, I put together a list of my favorite things to do in Culebra, as well as other practical tips you might need to plan a similar trip.

Table of Contents

About Culebra

Dewey is the only town on the island . It has a couple of supermarkets, a post office, 2 gas stations and a few restaurants. Even though streets have names, vague directions like “by the ferry” or “past the bridge” are sufficient. The island is so small, that if you spend a few days in Culebra, you are guaranteed to see the same people all over the island.

Things to do in Culebra, Puerto Rico

Some might say Culebra is a sleepy island and it definitely has a very laid back vibe. But if you enjoy water, beach and nature, you will find, that there are plenty of things to do in Culebra to keep you busy. We spend a whole week on the island and never run out of things to do.

Spend a day on Flamenco beach

No visit to Culebra is complete without spending time on Flamenco Beach . It’s the star of the island, and the reason many even come to Culebra. It’s often named one of the top beaches in the world and I admit, I did wonder if it would live up to the hype. The answer is YES, it does. Flamenco beach is a beauty.

When you step on Flamenco beach, you can see the appeal of it right away. This 1 1/2 mile long beach has the picture perfect white sand and stunning turquoise water. It’s wide and never feels crowded, even on busiest days. If you head from the main path all the way to the left and all the way to the right, you will find some amazing snorkeling spots right off the beach.

There is an area off the beach with a few kiosks selling food, drinks and beach accessories. Like all beaches in Culebra, Flamenco is public and free, but there is a parking fee, if you arrive by golf cart or car ( $5 plus $1 extra for every additional person ).

READ MORE : Is Flamenco beach in Culebra worth the hype?

Visit Carlos Rosario beach

Carlos Rosario is a beach, that you are very likely to have all to yourself. Even though it’s close to Flamenco Beach, it’s not very well known and visited. There are no signs to point you in its direction, what’s more, the “entrance” to it is a chained gate, which would turn most people away.

So how exactly can you get to this secluded piece of paradise? Head to the Flamenco Beach parking lot, look for a chained gate and walk through the opening. From there, follow the trail for about 20 minutes until you reach the beach.

Take a boat ride to Culebrita

One of my favorite things to do in Culebra was leaving Culebra. Not far though. If you have a few days on the island, be sure to take a day trip to Culebrita. This small, uninhibited island is a natural reserve and part of Culebra National Wildlife Refugee, that is open to visitors during the day.

If you love Flamenco Beach, just wait till you see Playa Tortuga. This horse shoe shaped beach is the main beach in Culebrita, it has the most beautiful white powder sand and the color of the water is unreal.

Make sure to take a walk to the end of Playa Tortuga, towards the rocky area until you reach the so called “Baths”. These are basically large tidal pools with bath warm water and some great snorkeling. The pools are surrounded by huge rocks and the water splashing against them creates this beautiful and remote spot. To get there, you do have to climb over some rocks, many of them slippery, so be sure to wear proper shoes . These Keens are perfect and they will come in handy on other rocky beaches in Culebra as well.

Make sure to hike to the top of the hill to see the abandoned lighthouse , or I should say what remains of one of the oldest lighthouses in the Caribbean. The lack of upkeep and destruction by hurricanes, left the once beautiful lighthouse in ruins. The red brick of what remains is gorgeous, as are the views from the top of the hill. And you just might get the last chance to visit the lighthouse before it’s gone. There are plans to turn the historic structure into a visitor center.

How do you get from Culebra to Culebrita? The only way to get to Culebrita is by boat and you have several options to do it. Generally it’s an all day excursion, either by sailing or a motor boat. Some trips include food and snorkeling, others are transportation only. It all depends how you want to spend your time on the island and what your budget is.

We opted to spend a day aboard a 30 ft catamaran with Captain Bill ( and his dog Gigi ), which included lunch, snorkeling and sightseeing. It was without a doubt one of the highlights of our week long stay in Culebra. Captain Bill has been sailing his whole life and having been in Culebra for 25 years, he knows the island and waters really well. You can find out more and contact Bill through his website here.

If Captain Bill is booked up, another great choice is taking a similar trip with Louis from Cayo Norte Water Taxi. You can also pre-book Culebrita Boat Day trip here.

If you are on a budget, but still want to take a day trip to Culebrita, you can get there by Water Taxi. This kind of trip includes transpiration only. For about $50, they take you there and come back at the end of the day to bring you back to Culebra. H2O Water Taxi comes highly recommended If that’s your preference, don’t forget to pack a cooler with food and drinks for the day, as there is absolutely nothing on Culebrita.

PRO TIP : Two must things to bring on a boat trip to Culebrita are a dry bag for your camera and water shoes .

Go snorkeling on Tamarindo beach

Playa Tamarindo is one of the best beaches on the island to do some snorkeling. This is where you are very likely to swim with sea turtles, as well as other wild life. That’s the great thing about Culebra, you don’t need to venture out very far to experience it. Most snorkeling can be done right off the beach, and that is true for Tamarindo as well. All you need is to grab your snorkeling gear and head out.

If you are hoping for some sea turtles encounters, go on the earlier side. There are a couple of kayak tours, that depart from Tamarindo Beach and sometimes that disturbs the turtles. Unfortunately, we were there in the afternoon and didn’t see any, but there were plenty of fish and we also had stingray sightings.

Tamarindo Beach is not far from Flamenco Beach and is easily accessible from the road. Once you get there, head as far to the left as you can. That’s where the best snorkeling is!

Visit Zoni Beach

In the northeast part of Culebra is another secluded and beautiful piece of paradise. Zoni, the locals’ favorite, is a wide and sandy beach, with water all different shades of blue. The waters do get a bit rough at times, so it’s good to keep that in mind, since the beach has no lifeguards. When you look out in the distance you can see St Thomas, Culebrita and other small islands.

Zoni beach is also the site for Leatherback and Hawksbill turtle nesting, so if you happen to be there in season, which is from April to June, you might see some areas of the beach marked off.

Getting to Zoni beach is a treat on its own, as the 20 or so minute hilly ride from town is very scenic. There are no facilities on the beach, so pack a cooler with lunch, drinks and anything you might need.

Watch the sunset at Melones Beach

Melones is the closest beach from Dewey, the main and only town on the island. This is one of the rocky beaches in Culebra, and while it might not be the best for sunbathing, it sure is the top spot to watch the sunset. Bring a chair or sit on the back of your golf cart and enjoy it.

How to get to Culebra

Getting to culebra by ferry.

Getting to Culebra by ferry is the cheapest option ( one way ticket costs $2.25 ), but can be quite a hassle. Tickets need to be purchased in person, at the ferry terminal, and are sold on first come first serve basis. Since the ferry is a means of transportation for a lot of residents and they have priority, there is no guarantee you will get a seat. Also, the new ferries in use have smaller capacity than the older ones, which means there are fewer seats.

UPDATE : things just got easier in terms of getting ferry tickets to Culebra. As of April 2019 you can look up schedules and book tickets online. This is a limited ticket inventory set aside for online booking. If online tickets are sold out, you can still get them at the Terminal ( as long as those are not sold out yet ).

As of October 2018, all ferries are operating out of the new terminal in Ceiba (no longer Fajardo). Aside from the passenger ferry, there is also a cargo ferry, that passengers can use, but these have a limited capacity. The ferries between Ceiba and Culebra run 7 days a week: passenger ferry 3 times/day and cargo/passenger ferry 7 times/day. It’s about a 45 minute ferry ride to get to Culebra.

Here’s the current April-June 2024 schedule Monday – Friday

Ceiba to Culebra ferry

• 6 am, 12.30 am – passenger ferry
• 3.30 am, 7.30 am, 9 am, 3.30 pm, 7.30 pm – cargo/passenger ferry

Culebra to Ceiba ferry

• 7:30 am, 3.30 pm – passenger ferry
• 6 am, 9.30 am, 11.30 am, 5.30pm, 9:30 pm – cargo/passenger ferry

Here’s the current April-June 2024 schedule Saturday and Sunday

• 6 am, 8 am, 2 pm, 5.30 pm – passenger ferry
• 4 am, 7 am, 12.30 pm, 6.30 pm – cargo/passenger ferry
• 7.30 am, 11 am, 4 pm, 8 pm – passenger ferry
• 7 am, 9.30 am, 3 pm, 9.30 pm – cargo/passenger ferry

Getting to Culebra by Air

If you don’t want to deal with to deal with getting to and on the ferry, flying is a good alternative, although quite a bit more expensive. However, if you are going to Culebra for more than a day and you factor in the cost of taxi getting to the ferry terminal in Ceiba, I think it’s the best option. It’s quick, hassle free and the views are breathtaking. Looking back, the flight over gorgeous blue waters was actually one of my favorite things to do in Culebra.

There are many options of airports and airlines to choose from, depending which part of Puerto Rico you are leaving from.

From San Juan International Airport

This is the airport to use if you are connecting through Luiz Munos Marin International Airport ( SJU ) from abroad. You can fly from SJU in San Juan with Seaborne Airlines. Book your Seaborne flights here

From Isla Grande Airport in San Juan

This airport is minutes away from Old San Juan, and a convenient one to use, if that’s where you are prior to flying to Culebra. At this airport you have a choice of Flamenco Air and Vieques Air Link .

From Ceiba Airport

Flights from this airport will be the cheapest and shortest. Two airlines offering flights from Ceiba airport are Vieques Air Link and Flamenco Air .

PRO TIP : Do not overpack. All the planes flying to Culebra are tiny planes have a weight limit, and understandably, they are serious about it.

Culebra snorkeling day trip

The main focus of this guide is to showcase the best of Culebra for those who choose to spend a few days on the island. However, if you are short on time and you’d like to experience it in a different way than just the typical day trip to Flamenco beach, taking a Culebra snorkeling day trip might be the way.

The boats going for a day trip to Culebra leave from Fajardo and the 6-7 hour trip includes stops at Carlos Rosario Nature Reserve and Cayo Luis Peña. These are some of the most beautiful spots and can be reached only by boat. You can book this trip here.

How to get around Culebra

Culebra is a small island, but you still need some means of transportation to get around. Especially if you plan on spending a few days there and want to explore, which you absolutely should. Most people rent either a golf cart or a Jeep. There are a couple of rental places right by the airport, one of them being Carlos Jeep Rental , which is the one we used.

Golf cart or Jeep? We had a golf cart for a week, and thought it was sufficient for what we needed it for. The island is so small, that even to get to the beach on the opposite end of it, it didn’t take more than 30 minutes. The speed didn’t matter, as we were never in a rush. Jeep will be easier on some of the dirt roads, and you won’t get rained on. It will hold more gear and you can safely leave your stuff in a locked car. Other than that, I found the golf cart to be good enough to meet our needs.

Where to stay in Culebra

The accommodations in Culebra are simple and choices are limited to small hotels, rented villas and Airbnb. Don’t look for big hotels or resorts, because you won’t find them on this island.

Club Seabourne – a boutique resort in the hillsides of Culebra, a perfect place if you want to be a bit removed. It’s a few minutes away from town, so having either a Jeep or a golf cart is a must.

Mamacitas Guest House – this is a simple guest house right in town with a restaurant and a bar downstairs, right on the canal. A short walk from the ferry terminal, restaurants and Milka supermarket.

Palmetto Guesthouse – a small 6 room guest house in a central location. Close to Costa del Sol supermarket and the airport, yet removed enough, so it’s quiet.

Villa Flamenco Beach – this 6 apartment villa gives you a very rare opportunity to stay right on Flamenco Beach. There really are only a couple of places right on it, so this is a very special place. Because of it and the amazing hospitality, Villa Flamenco Beach has a lot of repeat visitors, so make sure to inquire early!

Where to eat in Culebra

Although the list of restaurants on the island is not very extensive, there are a few good places to grab a meal. Much like the entire island, all places are very casual, so there’s definitely no need for fancy attire. Here are a couple of restaurants I would definitely recommend:

Zaco’s Tacos

This was my favorite place, and we ate there more than once. Great food and atmosphere. Ahi Tuna Taco was delicious, and it was possibly the best taco I’ve had in my life. My husband, on the other hand, raved about the Pork belly taco. Another bonus : they have dark beer on tap , which was a welcome change from the Medallas served in most places.

Krusty Crab

This small place is close to the ferry, and with just a handful of tables, it fills up fast. Be prepared to wait if you show up anytime after 6pm. It’s BYOB. If you don’t score the table, and don’t want to wait, you can always grab a take out.

Dinghy Dock

Dinghy Dock is definitely the place to go for a drink with the view. This waterfront restaurant has a great vibe and is the most hopping place of the island. The fresh fish is great, and they make killer drinks!

Food stands

If you drive around the island, you will sure encounter a few food stands. Whether it’s fish or lechon , it’s a filling cheap meal.

Things to know before you visit Culebra

• Supermarkets – Culebra has 2 main supermarkets: Costa del Sol and Milka. The first one is close to the airport, while the latter is in town near the bridge. Milka has better selection of products, but is a bit pricier than Costa del Sol.
• Currency used in Culebra is American dollar.
• Bank – there is one bank on the island, Banco Popular and this is the only ATM to withdraw cash.
• Credit cards – a lot of places take credit cards VISA, Mastercard and Discover. However, some small restaurants and food stands are cash only.
• Sunscreen – bring and use lots of sunscreen , more than you think you should. The sun is really strong, and a lot of the beaches offer very little shade.
• Bring water shoes – beaches like Tamarindo and Carlos Rosario have some rocky spots.
• Language – even though the official language is Spanish, most people speak English as well, especially in hotels, restaurants or tour operators.

• 16 Fun Things to do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Is Flamenco beach in Culebra worth the hype?

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13 thoughts on “ Things to do in Culebra – Puerto Rico’s laid back island ”

I love coming across unspoilt parts of the world like this – Culebra looks absolutely beautiful! It’s my dream to see turtles nesting one day, so perhaps Culebra is the place to do it!

Me too! Culebra is a beauty, and I was so happy to see how well they recovered after the hurricane!

Wow it looks gorgeous! I didn´t know this place existed, will definitely keep it in mind for the next journey across the ocean 🙂

It’s quite a place !

Culebra looks like a little slice of paradise! Great tips for visiting.

It really is !

Looks absolutely stunning – I am always surprised by the hidden corners of this world and their beauty. Also that name – crusty crab – just cracked me up 😉

It’s amazing that is so close to San Juan, yet feels like it’s world’s away.

Thanks for all this info! Is it safe to leave your stuff unattended in a golf cart (beach chairs, umbrella, boogie board)? I wouldn’t leave valuables but might want to stop for s drink somewhere after a day at the beach.

We’ve done it a few times and never had any problems. The golf carts come with a lock, that you can also use to attach your stuff to the cart.

Thanks so much for sharing! How long is the ferry ride to Culebra?

You’re very welcome. It takes about 45 minutes to get from Ceiba to Culebra on the passenger ferry.

It is what everyone says it is- unspoiled, stunning beauty, pure relaxation, wonderful people, outstanding restaurants, and world class snorkeling. It is a bit of a challenge to get there, but after traveling there three times now, I can say it is not so bad. The worst part is getting to the ferry from San Juan- takes 45 min to an hour if there is traffic. The ferry itself is only 45 minutes, and enjoyable on a nice day. Once you are on the island, it is easy- everything is so close, and convenient. Getting a vehicle or other transportation is hassle free if you plan ahead. Often times if you have a host, they assist you with details. Everyone on the island seems genuinely customer friendly. You do see the same people all week, which is nice if you are looking to socialize. What I really love about Culebra, is you feel you are in someone’s home, not an artificially created tourist spot, which in my opinion is a breeding ground for bad behavior and disrespect. This feeling can ruin a vacation for me. Love this place with all my heart!

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Gorgeous Culebra Puerto Rico: 25 Things to Do + Best Beaches & How to Get There

Posted on Published: December 9, 2021  - Last updated: March 5, 2024

Culebra Puerto Rico is what every Caribbean island should be. Bright, turquoise water. Lush, soft sand. Rolling hills that hug the beach. Perfection.

This is your guide to everything you need to know before you go and things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Culebra is a small island off the coast of mainland Puerto Rico, but boy does it pack a punch! Culebra is beautiful, fun and the perfect spot for a getaway to paradise! And bonus – it’s home to one of the world’s best beaches , Flamenco Beach .

If you’re traveling to Culebra Puerto Rico, this guide will help you figure out how to get there, what to pack , where to stay and things to do in Culebra . This gorgeous island has so much to offer – let’s get going!

Get the complete  Puerto Rico Travel Guide  for everything you need to see and do in Puerto Rico!

Ultimate guide to Culebra

This post is going to cover a lot! Use it to plan your time on this amazing island. Here’s what you can expect:

How to get to Culebra

• Culebra Ferry – pros and cons
• Flights to Culebra – pros and cons
• How to get around the island
• Fantastic Culebra restaurants
• Best sunset locations
• Shopping spots on the island
• Secluded beaches in Culebra
• Best beaches for snorkeling, families and more
• What to pack
• Where to stay in Culebra
• Tips for visiting

Quick note: if this is your first time to Puerto Rico, I highly recommend staying on the mainland for at least 2 nights before arriving on the island . Check out all the cool things to do in Old San Juan , the San Juan Fort and El Yunque National Forest. There’s so much to do on mainland Puerto Rico!

Quick note #2: this guide provides everything you need to know about Culebra assuming you’re spending more than a day on this island. However, if you’re short on time and looking for a Culebra day trip, here’s a Flamenco Beach and snorkeling tour from San Juan or day trip to Culebra from Fajardo .

First, where is Culebra Puerto Rico?

Just 18 miles off the eastern coast of the mainland Puerto Rico is this itty bitty island. Covering just 10 square miles, the island is home to less than 2000 residents. 

Here’s a map with a good view of the island including the best beaches, attractions, restaurants, accommodations and more.

Train, plane or boat. Just kidding!

Let’s go through the 2 options for getting to Culebra Puerto Rico . These 3 factors will help in your decision:

• How quickly you want to get there
• Your budget
• Location and transportation on mainland Puerto Rico

Just like the battle of Vieques vs Culebra , there are pros and cons to each.

Culebra Ferry

The most affordable way to get to Culebra is by taking the ferry .

Ferry to Culebra Puerto Rico – Pro’s

• Affordable option at less than $5.00 per person.
• Departs from Ceiba, allowing you to see more of the mainland vs. just staying in San Juan.
• Several departure options throughout the day.
• Short, 45 minute ride from mainland Puerto Rico to Culebra.
• Space for large groups.

Culebra Puerto Rico Ferry – Con’s

• Only one ferry company operates from mainland, so you’re at the mercy of their system.
• Not convenient for planning; reservations can be difficult. Ferry priority is for residents (which makes sense) limiting number of seats for visitors. Tickets sell out quickly online and monthly schedules are released at the end of the previous month. Check the Puerto Rico Ferry Facebook page for release schedules.
• Visitors must arrive more than an hour before departure to see if tickets are available (if online reservations aren’t confirmed).
• If you’re staying in San Juan, you’ll need to arrange transportation to Ceiba to catch the ferry. Rent a car , taxi or ride share, which will increase your cost to get there.

So, should you take the Culebra Ferry? If your plans are flexible and you’re looking for an affordable option, yes!

Flights from San Juan to Culebra

The most reliable way to get from San Juan to Culebra is to fly.

With just a couple of flight options direct from the mainland USA, most visitors will need to leave from the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan in order to fly to Culebra’s small airport: Benjamin Rivera Noriega Airport.

Flights to Culebra Puerto Rico – pros

• Guaranteed to have a reservation. Pay for it and just like a regular flight, the seat is yours.
• Departs from San Juan. Convenient if you’re staying in Old San Juan to get a simple ride share to the airport, vs finding transportation across the island.
• Short, 30 minute flight.

Flights to Culebra Puerto Rico – cons

• More expensive option to get to Culebra, with costs exceeding $60/person, per flight.
• Limited flying options: 2 carriers, Cape Air and Air Flamenco . and fewer flights throughout the day, vs ferry departure times.

So, should you fly to Culebra from San Juan? If can afford the airfare, yes!

(I personally chose to fly to Culebra from San Juan via Cape Air and had a fantastic experience.)

Pro tip: catch the first flight out of the day and hit the beach by 9:00am – including breakfast!

Getting around the island

When traveling to Culebra, you’ll need to rent a golf cart or Jeep. There is no rideshare, small cars and it’s not a walkable island. And riding a bicycle everywhere sounds great in theory, but it’s an extremely hilly island with really rough roads, so it’s not practical.

I highly recommend a Jeep. The roads are rough and some inclines would be extremely difficult with a golf cart. Oh, and muddy too!

You can rent a jeep from Carlos Jeep Rental or Jerry’s Jeep Rental . Both are located practically right across the street from the airport and offer convenient pickup services at the ferry dock, too.

Driving around a Caribbean island on a Jeep is a good time. Although, the last island I golf carted around was Put-in-Bay, Ohio on Lake Erie , which was a blast, too!

Anyway, be sure to reserve your rental in advance because on this tiny island, there’s limited supply.

Be sure to read to the bottom of this post for what to pack, best places to stay in Culebra and top tips for a spectacular experience! For now, let’s get into the best activities on the island.

Things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico

If you’re here because you want to know what there actually is to do – and if it’s worth a visit – I got you!

Here’s a list of the top activities and things to do in Culebra.

1. Visit the gorgeous Flamenco Beach

This just miiiiight be the thing that drew you in. Flamenco Beach is rated as one of the top beaches over and over again. And trust me you’re gonna agree once you see it for yourself.

You may have heard it called Culebra Beach – but in fact, it’s name is Flamenco Beach, and it’s another level of perfection!

A few things to know about Flamenco Beach:

• It’s a crescent shaped beach with stunning turquoise water, super soft sand and the surrounding area looks like a real-life dream. Seriously.
• There are a few amenities like rinse stations, food and drinks.
• You can rent chairs, a beach umbrella and other gear for the day – at a cost. Take cash or have your Venmo ready.
• It costs $2 per car and $5 per person to enter. #worthit

Location:  312 PR-251, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

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2. Eat at Zaco’s Tacos

One of the island favorites is Zaco’s Taco’s! Open for limited hours on the weekends, try the beef tacos, Baha fish tacos, chicken tandoori tostada. The menu changes daily, so since you’re on an island, go with the flow, ok? 😉

Oh, and the fresh, homemade salsa is to die for so be sure to add that to your order, too.

Location: Cll Pedro Marquez, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

3. See the manatees in Culebra PR

One of the coolest surprises I had during my time on Culebra Island Puerto Rico was seeing manatees! The last time I’d seen some was in Anna Maria Island, Florida and it really surprised me that they are as far south as Puerto Rico.

Anyway, I saw 2 manatees while at the pier in Ensenada Honda in Culebra. It sounds like locals regularly see manatees, so if you spend a little time at the pier, you may just find them too!

Location: PR-250, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

4. Visit the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge

Part of the main island of Culebra and 22 smaller islands in the area, including over 1500 acres of land make up the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge . These marine ecosystems are protected including seabird nesting areas, dry tree forest, the boulder forest and so much more.

Fun fact: an estimated 40,000 Sooty Terns (a type of bird) nest on the Peninsula Flamenco. This happens to be the largest seabird nesting colony in all of the Caribbean.

The easiest ways to enjoy the refuge is to hike to Resaca Beach to see a completely natural and preserved area of the island. This is also a sea turtle nesting area, so respect any signage that’s placed there seasonally.

Isla Culebrita is also part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge. It’s available via boat for a day trip – see #10 below.

Location: here’s a map of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge

5. See Hector el Protector the Troll

One of the most unique things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico is see the wooden troll. It’s there to protect the island – a mascot of sorts! It also greets passengers that take the ferry to the island. If you’re not taking the ferry, you can see the troll from the marina.

The troll is a unique, manmade art structure by the artist Thomas Dambo . I first saw his work by visiting the Breckenridge Troll in Colorado. Thomas and his team have such a unique way to recycle materials and show the world that recycling is a way of the future..

Hector El Protector troll actually was demolished by Hurricane Maria. The residents missed him deeply so they set up a fundraiser to pay for plane tickets for the team to come back and rebuild him. What a cool story!

Anyway, if you’re downtown to grab a bite to eat, stop by the marina to see the wooden troll .

Location: 8M2X+92 Culebra, Puerto Rico (Terminal de Lanchas de Culebra)

6. Feed the Tarpons (a unique thing to do in Culebra Puerto Rico)

Large Tarpon fish are quite the sight to see in the bay. Unlike mainland Puerto Rico or even Florida, they’re protected in Culebra which means they’re plentiful!

The locals feed them and encourage it – and obviously the Tarpons love it too! If you eat at Dingy Dock’s or Mamacita’s , you can feed the Tarpons from there.

Location: 8P22+V7 Culebra, Puerto Rico (Dinghy Dock’s)

7. Dinner at Dinghy Dock’s (one of the best restaurants in Culebra Puerto Rico)

Speaking of Dinghy Dock’s – this is one restaurant you gotta try! A favorite of visitors and locals, the food at Dinghy Dock’s is some of the best you’ll taste on the island.

From coconut shrimp to grilled Mahi Mahi to skirt steak, it’s a spot worth visiting. Grab a cocktail for happy hour or go for dinner. You’ll have waterfront views while dining on some good food!

Note:  there will likely be a wait at Dinghy Dock’s, so come a little early!

Location: 8P22+V7 Culebra, Puerto Rico

8. Catch an amazing sunset

Okay, I can’t promise you’ll get to see an amazing sunset. But I can recommend a few spots to watch the sunset in hopes it turns magical for you!

Note: these locations are more remote, with little to no services. Bring what you’ll need to enjoy your sunset! 😍

Best sunset locations on Culebra:

• Playa Tamarindo Grande
• Carlos Rosario Beach
• Playa De Cascajo
• Punta Soldado Beach

9. Culebra snorkeling with the sea turtles

Tamarindo Beach is known for it’s snorkeling! On a good day you’ll see plenty of sea turtles, rays and a variety of fish. In fact, snorkeling is one of the top things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico!

Unfortunately, the reef is mostly dead at Tamarindo Beach, which means the vibrant colors you’ll see in places like Turks and Caicos and while snorkeling in Kauai aren’t possible here. However the sea turtles are still pretty cool to see! 

Just be sure not to touch the sea turtles! Leave nature be and stay a distance during photos.

With a rocky, stone shoreline, you’ll really want to bring water shoes !

Note: there are no services at Tamarindo Beach, so be sure to bring your own snorkel gear . My husband and I travel with snorkel gear to all our beachy destinations, and this is the snorkel set I used on Culebra Island Puerto Rico. I have it in teal and it worked great! 

Location: Tamarindo Beach Road, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

10. Day trip to Culebrita Island

Okay, okay, this one is not technically on the island. However it’s one of the top things to do in Culebra because it’s a simple day trip on a boat from the coast to Culebra to Culebrita. 

Culebrita is a tiny, uninhabited island about 5 miles from Culebra. It’s a beautiful island with gorgeous beaches and clear water. If you’re feeling adventurous, the island also offers old lighthouse ruins, hiking trails and natural pools for swimming.

Book it now : day trip to Culebrita

By the way – this day trip to Culebrita reminds me of the tour from Fajardo on mainland to a tiny, uninhabited island. Icacos Island, Puerto Rico is equally as stunning!

11. Jeep the island

I know we already talked about rental cars. But here’s the thing: one of the best parts about traveling is the ability to explore!

Driving the Jeep down the many dirt roads is a great way to see this island! Get ready for a bumpy ride!

It’s beautiful and you’ll see stunning landscapes. Just be sure to honor the locals and don’t trespass while exploring. 

12. Pina Colada on the beach (one of my favorite things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico)

Fun fact: did you know the Pina Colada originated in Puerto Rico? That’s right! It was created in Old San Juan at Barrachina restaurant, which you can still visit today.

So it’s rather fitting that you can sit on a beach in Puerto Rico while drinking a delicious frozen Pina Colada! The only beach on the island where you can buy frozen cocktails is Flamenco Beach. The little beach hut selling cold drinks has them for less than $10!

Pro tip: if you’re looking for a budget-friendly Pina Colada hack, try taking your own mixers and travel blender ! You’ll have to pack your blender in the checked luggage, but it can be worth it!

I’ve taken my travel blender to many beachy destinations and it’s a great way to save some cash! In this case, be sure to bring a collapsible cooler , insulated mugs to keep your drink cold and reusable straws . And of course, enjoy responsibly!

Anyway, it’s one of my favorite ways to spend a beach day. So grab a Pina Colada, put your toes in the sand and enjoy the beach!

Location: 312 PR-251, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

13. Shop for souvenirs

Whether you’re faced with a rainy day or just need a break from the sun, shopping for souvenirs can be a fun time on vacation. 

While the island is small, there’s still a few shops to check out. When visiting downtown, you’re most likely to hit an open store on the weekend or in the afternoon. Remember, you’re on island time so if you come across a shop that’s not open, check back later!

Shopping in Culebra PR:

• Galeria de Regalos
• Mi Pequena Partia Boutique

14. Experience the beautiful Zoni Beach (another favorite on this list of things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico)

Looking for some privacy? Or maybe a little more peace than the large crowds and tours that bring people to Flamenco Beach?

Give Zoni Beach a try! The picturesque palm trees and beautiful bay will have you falling in love with this island. With a view of Cayo Norte and Culebrita Island, it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

Here’s another reason why it’s way less crowded: you may have to walk through rocky water to enjoy it. And it has more seaweed than other beaches.

If you’re heading to Zoni Beach, I highly recommend to take water shoes with you . Especially during high tide, you’ll have to walk through a strip of really narrow beach in order to get to the good part. 

These are the water shoes I recommend – I take them on all my beach trips and wore them to walk through the rocky shore at Zoni Beach.

Don’t let the short walk scare you – this beach is a gem on this island! And speaking of gems in Puerto Rico, you should definitely check out the Black Sand Beach in Vieques . It’s as short flight to get there, but oh-so unique!

Location: Fraile, Culebra 00775, Puerto Rico

15. Ride jet skis

One of the coolest ways to experience this island is from a jet ski! It just might be a highlight of your trip, which says a lot considering all the amazing things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico!

By taking a jet ski tour , you’ll get to see this gorgeous coastline from the water and experience hidden beaches not accessible by land! Visit the most scenic spots on the island, without the crowds!

16. Go boating in and around Culebra Puerto Rico

Fun fact: Culebra Puerto Rico is part of an archipelago including 18 small islands. It’s quite literally perfect for any boat lover! Whether you rent a yacht, take a Culebra snorkeling excursion or fishing tour, there are so many places accessible only by boat!

Seeing all the tiny islands from the airplane on the way to Culebra made me want to check out all those empty beaches. What better way to do it than exploring via boat?

17. Experience the vibrant colors of Culebra PR

This island is naturally beautiful. With lush greenery on the hillside, gorgeous beaches and stunning water. There’s not doubt you’ll love it.

The locals have done a wonderful job of making the island vibrant and beautiful, too. Taking a walk in downtown, you’ll see street art, brightly painted signage and inviting storefronts. Homes and businesses are painted all colors of the rainbow, which is so fun!

As you experience this island, remember to respect private property as you witness this tiny island’s charm.

18. Cool treats at Rolls of Heaven

Is it time to cool off with a sweet treat? Get this: Rolls of Heaven makes ice cream and popsicles! It’s literally perfection in a restaurant. 😆

Oh, and they have over 20 fresh flavors of popsicles! With flavors like Fruit Punch, Strawberry Raspberry Mojito, Coconut Cinnamon, Oreo and Pina Colada, you’ll have a hard time choosing.

Then, over to their Heavenly ice cream…(see what I did there?) Choose from creations like Reese’s & Oreo Ice Cream Roll, Banana Split Roll and Cookie Monster Taco Roll – you’ll find something delicious!

Location: 8M2X+XC Culebra, Puerto Rico

19. See the painted tanks on the beach

Back on Flamenco Beach, wrap yourself in history and a little bit of art by checking out the tanks. It’s one of the most kid-friendly things to do in Culebra, too.

At the end of Flamenco Beach sit 2 tanks – one in the water and the other just slightly off the beach.

The remnants of the US Navy’s target practice , the tanks were left on the island to rot when the Navy abandoned Culebra as a testing spot. The locals paint the tanks, to create something beautiful out of a tragic period of time.

Location: 8MMG+VVH, Flamenco, Culebra, Puerto Rico 00775

20. Visit the Culebra Puerto Rico museum

Every island has it’s history, and this one has a small museum to see it. There is a $2 fee to enter the museum, which is worth it for history lovers!

The Culebra Historic Museum showcases artifacts and memorabilia of the history of the island . See details about when the native Tainos lived on the island. Or check out the collection of artifacts from when the US Navy used the island as a bomb testing site.

There’s also a small gift shop inside the museum. Making a purchase is another way to help support the museum.

Location: 8P68+5P4, Fraile, Culebra 00775, Puerto Rico

21. Go hiking

One of the coolest experiences you might have on Culebra Puerto Rico could quite possibly be going hiking – to find a beach!

It reminds me of hiking the Hideaway Beach, one of the best beaches in Kauai, Hawaii . You gotta work to get there! And that means way less people, or quite possibly even the beach to yourself!

• Hike to Carlos Rosario Beach by parking at the Flamenco parking lot. It’s about 15 minutes walk.
• A strenuous hike, Playa Resaca is a 30 minute hike past large boulders in a dense tree area. You may be the only ones at this secluded beach!
• Brava Beach is accessible via a 30 minute hike from the Playa Brava trailhead.

For all of these hikes, I’d recommend comfortable water shoes , which double for hiking but also on the rocky shoreline. Be sure to take lots of water, snorkel gear , lightweight beach towel and anything else you’ll want to enjoy the beach as there are no amenities at these hidden gems!

22. Find a secluded beach (a must-do from this guide to Culebra Puerto Rico)

Some of my favorite memories of Culebra (and other islands, actually) are finding empty beaches and soaking in their magical charm. So while a few beaches were mentioned throughout this post, rely on the list below if you really want to find a spot all for yourself!

Culebra’s hidden beaches:

• Resaca Beach

23. Cocktails and views at Mamacita’s 

Mamacita’s is a staple on the island. Located right on the water, it’s the place to go for mofongo (the local cuisine in Puerto Rico) and it’s also a vacation property! So if you’re wanting to stay in town, this is a spot to consider.

But for the purposes of this list of things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico, I’m adding Mamacita’s to the list for food and drinks. With water views, it’s a great place to wind down for the day, and one of the more popular restaurants in Culebra.

Location: 64 Cll Castelar, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

24. Go kayaking

From Placencia, Belize to Siesta Key, Florida , kayaking is a favorite on any trip. So why not at a place as gorgeous as Culebra Puerto Rico?

Take a kayaking tour to see the beautiful coastline and what lies within the waters beneath! Explore the Luis Pena Channel Nature Reserve on a kayak. See colorful coral reefs, sea turtles and learn about the island’s ecosystems.

What a fun way to experience this beautiful island!

Book it now: kayaking tour

Location: Tamarindo Beach Road, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico (departure point)

25. Visit all the best beaches in Culebra (my favorite part of this guide!)

Alright, so a few beaches were already mentioned above. But you love options, right? So here’s the best beaches in Culebra, and what each beach is perfect for….

Best beaches with dramatic views:

• Flamenco Beach: it’s probably what drew you to this island. Rated as one of the top beaches in the Caribbean over and over again. It’s great for swimming, too. Enough said😊
• Resaca Beach: after a challenging 30 minute hike, you’ll see one of the most beautiful, empty beaches you’ll ever step foot on. Resaca Beach has pretty big waves, so swimming isn’t recommended. Dipping your feet in the water and enjoying the waves from afar – likely by yourself – is quite the reward after this hike!
• Brava Beach: with more seaweed than some of the others, it has a natural beauty to it. With rocky areas, this beach gets some pretty strong waves so it’s not recommended for swimming.
• Playa Manzanilla: one of the smallest, most remote beaches on the island offers dramatic views of this beautiful place. You’ll need 4×4 to get there, and it’s not ideal for swimming. It’s rocky shoreline with mangroves just might be a highlight of your trip!
• Zoni Beach: perfect for swimming and enjoying the waves. With views of the nearby islands, it truly makes a gorgeous day on the beach.

Best snorkeling in Culebra Puerto Rico:

• Melones Beach: perfect for snorkeling and watching the sunset. Grab your gear though, there are no services at Melones Beach.
• Playa Punta Soldado : known for its gorgeous sea life. Underwater is where Punta Soldado really shines. With colorful reefs and a variety of fish, rays and sea turtles, this has some of the most remote spot for Culebra snorkeling. Be sure to bring your snorkel gear though, there are no services here!
• Carlos Rosario Beach : offers some of the best snorkeling in all of Puerto Rico! Bring your own snorkel gear , and get ready for a 15-minute walk to the beach. Hint: that makes it even more secluded! With a beautiful reef system and small waves that create near perfect Culebra snorkeling conditions, it reminds me of snorkeling off the coast of Laughing Bird Caye, Belize.
• Playa Tamarindo Grande: snorkeling with sea turtles! Rocky shoreline with beautiful views of the caye just off the coast. (Note this isn’t the same as Tamarindo Beach – Tamarindo Grande is a different one!)

Beaches with the most calm water:

• Datiles Beach: perfect beach for kids, but can be tricky to get to. This extremely shallow beach is excellent for small children, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and more. It’s also in a great position for spectacular sunsets!
• Tamarindo Beach: previously mentioned for it’s snorkeling, it’s also a great swimming beach…as long as you have water shoes ! The waves are calm and perfect for floating. With a rocky bottom, you’ll want to protect those toes, though!

That’s a wrap of the things to do and see in Culebra Puerto Rico. Let’s continue on with helpful info for planning your trip!

What to pack for Culebra Puerto Rico

Whether you’ve been to 100 beaches or this is your first one, there are a few specific items you’ll want for your time on the island.

• Motion sickness medication. If you even get a hint of motion sickness, grab some medication before you leave home, or at the very least mainland Puerto Rico. Whether you’re traveling over by small plane from San Juan or on the Culebra Ferry, you’ll want to feel good during your time on the island…not sick.
• Beach attire. (I mean, obviously a swimming suit for the Culebra beach). But don’t forget a coverup or rash guard and sun hat (the sun is super powerful here!)
• Reef-safe sunscreen . This is important! Chemicals in traditional sunscreen can damage the coral reefs, causing major problems for marine life. This is my favorite eco-friendly sunscreen . And bonus – it smells great, too!
• Beach towel . Many accommodations don’t provide beach gear, or if you’re getting to the island in the morning way before you can check in, it’s best to carry your own. This is my favorite lightweight beach towel . It’s thin enough for packing and dries quickly. It also has a hidden zipper pocket for valuables!
• Snorkeling gear . There’s so many spots on this small island for snorkeling. If you’re not taking a snorkeling tour, be sure to bring your own gear. This is the snorkel set I took to Culebra PR and it worked perfectly!
• Water shoes . Mentioned previously, a great pair of water shoes will be perfect for walking on a few of the rocky beaches on the island. You can also repurpose them for hiking to a beach. These are my favorite water shoes and they go to every beachy destination with me!

These are the basics for your time on this island. For more beach essentials, check out this list on what to pack for a beach vacation.

Where to stay in Culebra PR

This guide cannot be everything you need to know about Culebra without some recommendations on where to stay!

After spending time on the island, it’s pretty easy to see that you really can’t go wrong. Deciding where to stay in Culebra will depend on your budget and preferences.

I booked a cute cottage to share with my husband using Booking.com . It had phenomenal views of the island and was definitely an adventure to get to! (It required 4×4 to climb to the top of the hill.)

If you want a quaint, affordable spot with stellar views, look for availability at Aleli Cottages . 

Here are a few more properties that just might be perfect for your stay.

Best places to stay in Culebra:

• Club Seabourne Hotel: this mid luxury spot offers beautiful views, breakfasts, pool and a great location.
• Oceana Villas: with top-notch views and perhaps the most amazing deck you’ve ever been on, this one just might be perfect for your island vacation.
• Island Charm Culebra: on a picturesque hillside overlooking the water, this quiet spot is ultra clean and offers a great value.

Tips for visiting Culebra Puerto Rico

Here’s a few more tips to make the most of your time on this beautiful island:

• Be flexible with your meals. There’s not a whole lot of Culebra restaurants. And depending on the day you might get one option for breakfast and one option for lunch. So this is your warning not to visit this island solely on the food. Instead enjoy it for what it is and be flexible.
• Be respectful to the locals. This is their island and you are a guest. Don’t litter. Don’t trespass. Abide by local laws and be polite. 
• Don’t touch the sea turtles. This technically goes for any sea life in any destination. When humans touch sea turtles, the bacteria on our hands can transfer to them, leaving turtles more susceptible to disease. Disturbing them can also change their feeding and mating habits, putting them at further risk. Respect the marine life and enjoy them from a distance.

Ultimate guide to Culebra Puerto Rico (a recap)

Are you ready to pack your bag and head to Culebra? It’s a gorgeous, laid-back island with just the right vibe for a vacation getaway. Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot for 2, a girl’s getaway or a long weekend with the family, Culebra has something for everyone.

With stunning beaches and a more natural feel than many other Caribbean islands and plenty of things to see and do, Culebra is surely a special place! Enjoy your time on the island!

Related content: Ultimate Guide to Stunning Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico Culebra vs Vieques: Which Island is Perfect for You? 28 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Old San Juan You’ll Love STUNNING Black Sand Beach Vieques, Puerto Rico: What to Know Before You Go Jaw-dropping Icacos Island, Puerto Rico: What to Know Before You Go

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Saturday 25th of March 2023

You have to try the key lime pie at dinghy docks. It’s amazing. Get there early for dinner because it is packed! Like 5pm early.

Thursday 30th of March 2023

Oh yum! I loved Dinghy Docks but didn't get the key lime pie. Maybe next time!!

SHAWN (CHANGO) HANILY

Friday 27th of January 2023

I first read about Culerbra in 2015 and was really intrigued by it. I have wanted go and explore it ever since. Life has been too full,busy,important, and I haven't been able to justify the time. But during covid quarentine bs, alot(everything)changed in my world. My old life doesn't exist anymore and I have no responsibilities holding me back. Literally, NO reason to not just go do what I want. There is a good chance I will use your wonderful guide to relocate there! Pretty sure you can count on it! Thanx again, You did do a fantastic job !

Shawn (amigos call me Chango)

Saturday 28th of January 2023

Wow Shawn, thanks so much for sharing. I'm so glad you found this guide. Whether you're there for a day or a month, I really think you're going to love Culebra! I'm crossing my fingers you make it there REALLY soon!!

Melanie Pagan

Monday 28th of February 2022

Thank you, this was very informative. I’ll be there in two weeks. I had a few questions if you don’t mind answering. Does the island close down at a certain time? Is there stores to grab toiletries and snacks? Im arriving on the last ferry and worried I wont be able to grab last minute items on the island.

Tuesday 1st of March 2022

So glad you found this helpful, Melanie! The island doesn't really 'shut down' but the number of stores on the island are extremely limited. Some restaurants are open late, but I'd suggest trying to find what you need right away when you get there. The downtown area (near the port) will be the best option to grab a few things. There are a few shops right in the downtown area that you could look to find your supplies. Have an excellent time in Culebra - it's a gorgeous little island!

Travel A-Broads

Sunday 12th of December 2021

I've always wanted to visit Puerto Rico since I was a kid! Love this guide and all of the beautiful photos. I had no idea there was a troll here too - I feel like I need a new goal of visiting places and finding those. So neat! Xx Sara

Wow! So many fun things to do. After reading your post, Puerto Rico is now calling my name.

Yay! Glad this post inspired you to take a trip. You'll love it there, Michelle!

Moyer Memoirs

Empty-Nest Travel Adventures

Beautiful Island of Culebra: Things to do on a Day Trip in Puerto Rico

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Last Updated on February 25, 2024

A day trip to Culebra Island: Paradise in Puerto Rico! 

You should definitely include all of these Culebra things to do on your Puerto Rico itinerary !  Culebra is an island that is a short day-trip from the main island of Puerto Rico.  It is Puerto Rico’s least populated town but is filled with exciting things to do for vacationers.

If you have extra time in your itinerary to Puerto Rico and you have already explored and toured all the historical sites in Old San Juan , visit Culebra Island and spend some time exploring all the white sand beaches on Culebra. It will feel like you have taken a trip to your own private island paradise!

I will tell you how to explore Culebra, how to get there, and everything you need to know about a quick trip to Culebra, the beautiful island in Puerto Rico!

Best Things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico

Where is culebra.

Culebra is a small island that is 17 miles to the east of Puerto Rico’s main island.  It is known mainly for beaches and snorkeling.  There is a lot of marine life including those adorable sea turtles swimming around Culebra’s healthy coral reefs.  The best beaches on the island are Flamenco Beach and Tamarindo Beach.

Important Note: There is another little island of Vieques , but Culebra is known for some of the top beaches in Puerto Rico and the better island spot for sailing, snorkeling, diving, and turtle watching. They are both outside the mainland of Puerto Rico and can only be reached by ferry or airplane.

How big is Culebra Island?

Culebra is a small island, measuring 7 miles by 5 miles. So spending 1 day in Culebra will be enough to see almost everything. If you extend your Culebra vacation, your itinerary will be filled with even more beautiful beaches and exciting snorkeling!

Follow along to learn about the CULEBRA ATTRACTIONS and all the wonderful things to do in Culebra Island Puerto Rico so that you can plan a PERFECT TRIP!

Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach is the best beach in Culebra, the best beach in Puerto Rico, and battles as one of the best beaches in the world .  It is 1 ½ miles long of white sand with a palm tree-lined backdrop and a great opportunity for beautiful green mountain vistas.

There are restrooms and changing facilities. There are a few Flamenco Beach food kiosks, picnic tables under the palm trees, showers, and vendors for chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear.  The island has spent a great deal of effort in renovating Flamenco Beach since it is quite popular with tourists.

There is a parking fee of $4 – $5 and a per-person ticket entry fee of $2.  It was a cloudy day when we were there… and in fact, it rained about 5 different times that day….  so the parking lot (and the beach!!) wasn’t that crowded.  I can imagine that parking gets difficult during peak times on days when the weather is beautiful.

The presence of official military tanks on Flamenco beach , one in the water and one on the land, give an eerie air to the whole beach since it can be seen in the distance as a large shadow looming in the water.  The tanks were left during the US presence in Puerto Rico.  Now, they sit, abandoned and rusting in the water.  They give an easel for those that love graffiti and a huge prop for those that love a unique selfie!

PRO TIP:   Wear water shoes around the tank in the water since there is a lot of rusted tank debris in the sand surrounding the tank.

How to get to Flamenco Beach

Depending on how you get to Culebra , there are a number of options for getting around Culebra. We opted for a golf cart rental.  It was so much fun tooling around that little island and going wherever we felt like going without a set driving itinerary!

The beach is only a short ride from the ferry dock.  You can easily drive there in a golf cart rental or take a taxi to Flamenco Beach from the Culebra ferry dock for around $10.

I discuss the options for getting to Culebra island itself, including the ferries to Culebra , in a later section.

Don’t want the hassle of driving?  Take a tour that includes the famous Flamenco Beach!

Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo Beach does not have as nice of a sandy beach as Flamenco Beach.  The shore at Tamarindo has more pebbles and rocks.  However, the bonus is a better opportunity to see sea turtles at Tamarindo since there are usually more here. Take your snorkel gear and look out for those beautiful creatures!

Zoni Beach is a secluded paradise. It is the second-most popular beach on Culebra, but you would never know it while you are strolling its shores. The long stretches of sand are empty and beckon you to stretch out under the sun rays. There are numerous palm trees where you can pull up and devour a good book while enjoying the sea breeze.

It is on THIS beach that we were able to get our postcard-perfect Culebra beach photo under the palm trees to capture the essence of our trip to Culebra. We sent it to all our family and friends to make them jealous!

Explore the whole Culebra Island in a day

If you enjoy colorful Caribbean houses, green mangrove forests (like the amazing El Yunque National Forest and its hidden natural slides ), and visiting more than the popular sites on a day trip, you can explore the rest of Culebra Island for some hidden treasures and more secluded beaches, like we did.

One day in Culebra Puerto Rico is definitely enough time to drive around the whole island in a rental car —or even more fun —a golf cart.

How to get around in Culebra

Culebra Island is small, but not THAT small.  Once you arrive at the ferry dock in Culebra, there is a small town of shops and restaurants, but after that, you will not be able to walk everywhere.  Some of the beaches are a 5 – 10 minute drive from the ferry dock. That is kind of far to walk to!

After all, why waste your whole day WALKING to the beach, when you could zip there quickly with some rented transportation and spend more time in the sun!

There are a few options available for transportation if you are wondering how to get around Culebra Puerto Rico! –Golf carts and Jeeps!

Golf Cart Rental on Culebra

We rented a golf cart from Carlos Jeep Rental .  It was really easy.  We reserved one ahead of time and when our morning ferry arrived in Culebra, the shuttle was there to take hubby to the rental building to pick up the golf cart.  It was not cheap, but it was really fun exploring the whole island of Culebra during our short day trip.  We drove around on all the little roads and up and down the hills, through the mangroves for a little over an hour, and definitely put some miles on our little golf cart rental!

Carlos Jeep rental also has jeeps —it’s in the name!! — if you want a bigger vehicle!

If you are thinking SMALLER, there are also several bike rental companies on the island that average about $20 per day for a rental. Even smaller — there are scooter rentals with a guided tour !!

If you don’t want to drive yourself around Culebra, there will be plenty of taxi drivers waiting at the dock to take you to all the popular destinations, like Flamenco Beach, and then back to the ferry dock at the end of the day.

Walk around downtown Culebra by the dock

Spend some time near the ferry dock station.  There are several small shops, restaurants, and bars to enjoy. If you are a foodie, exploring all the small eateries in this area is one of the fun things to do in Culebra Puerto Rico!

In fact, we ordered a to-go pizza from Heather’s Pizza (take-out was the only option during the pandemic!) and found a bench looking out over the water.  It was the first time we had a pizza with plantains on it!  Plantains are common fruits in tropical areas so I wanted to try them.  They are a variation of our common banana and I enjoyed the sweet contrast of the plantains on my pizza!  We ate our dinner while waiting for our return ferry to the main island of Puerto Rico.

More time in Puerto Rico? Follow my Ultimate Guide!!!

Kayak in Culebra Puerto Rico

Paddling along the clear blue water around Culebra in a kayak is a great way to enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere and sea life.  

WARNING:  The tantalizing views will make you want to jump in and do some snorkeling for one of your next adventurous activities in Culebra! …so keep reading on for snorkel and scuba diving activities in Culebra! You can’t leave Culebra without doing some snorkeling too!

Paddleboard in Culebra Puerto Rico

The water on the west coast of Culebra is very calm and perfect for paddle boarding.  There are places that you can rent equipment and even snorkel gear for viewing the sea life when you are done with your paddleboard!

Take a guided paddle board tour, or rent one and explore Culebra on your own.

Culebra Snorkeling

Culebra is one of the best spots in the world for snorkeling because the underwater reefs have not been touched by millions of tourists.  They are preserved and living with vibrant-colored coral and sea life. The best snorkeling beaches on Culebra are Flamenco Beach, Tamarindo Beach and Zoni Beach as well as many other hidden gems.

Scuba Dive in Culebra Puerto Rico

Explore even more of Culebra’s reef system with a scuba diving tour.  There are dozens of dive sites and depths for all levels of divers.  You will be amazed at what you discover in Culebra’s pristine waters.

➡️ Where to find the BEST scuba diving all over Puerto Rico

Culebra Wildlife Refuge

The National Wildlife Refuge was formed by President Theodore Roosevelt and is overseen by the US Navy.  In the Caribbean, it is made up of 22 islands including Culebra.  On your tour through the National Wildlife Refuge, you will see grasslands, mangroves, canyons, and forests.

Food on Culebra Island & Culebra Drinks

Speaking of dinner, there are a handful of notable sit-down restaurants.

Dinghy Dock, located near the Culebra ferry dock, is a must-see experience of dining in an open-air restaurant with a fun-loving atmosphere, a beautiful view of the bay, and a delicious Puerto Rican menu.

The island’s signature cocktail is a Bushwhacker, a tropical chocolate-flavored alcoholic milkshake! Don’t forget to order one of THOSE with your dinner on Culebra.

How to get to Culebra Puerto Rico

In increasing order of cost, the options for getting to Culebra Island from the main island of Puerto Rico are listed below.  Choose your method and then continue reading for further tips and advice for getting from Ceiba to Culebra.

Method of transportation for a Culebra day trip from San Juan:

• A 1-hour ferry boat ride to Culebra from Ceiba (less than $5 per person round trip)
• An excursion or day-trip to Culebra from Ceiba that plans the boat trip & Culebra activities for you
• A 30-minute plane ride to Culebra from San Juan International Airport (~$100 round trip)
• An excursion or day-trip to Culebra that plans a flight from San Juan Airport to Culebra and the activities for you (~$375)

Ferry to Culebra – Method 1

How to get to the ferry terminal in ceiba in order to get to culebra.

The ferry dock is located in Ceiba Puerto Rico and is a little less than 50 miles from San Juan.  If you are planning to take the ferry to Culebra, you will also need to plan a way to get to the ferry dock.  If you have already rented a car in San Juan , it will just be a scenic 1-hour drive from your San Juan hotel to Ceiba.

• Taxi from San Juan to Ceiba (~$90)
• Car Rental in Puerto Rico ($ depends on # rental days)
• An excursion or day-trip to Culebra that includes a flight from the San Juan Airport to Culebra and all the activities (~$375)

Ferry to Culebra from Ceiba

The high-speed ferry from Ceiba is the cheapest way to get to Culebra and is a scenic ride that clips along the waves at an amazing speed.  However, it is definitely not the fastest method to get to Culebra.  You should only choose this method if you are planning a relaxed day in Culebra without any time constraints.

First, you have to travel to Ceiba, which is a 1-hour car ride away from San Juan.  Most travelers don’t stay in Ceiba, so the travel time from their accommodation adds up and results in waking up earlier in the morning.

Where is the ferry dock?

Ceiba Terminal: Marina Dr. Roosevelt Roads Ceiba, PR 00735 MAP to Ceiba Ferry Terminal

The ferry dock has boats going to Culebra Island as well as Vieques Island , so make sure you are buying tickets to the correct island!  The workers are all quite friendly, speak English, and will definitely help you find the right place to get in line for boarding your ferry to Culebra.

Ferry tickets are available online ahead of time BUT in very limited quantity.

If you want to be assured of a seat, pay attention to the release of your ferry tickets and get one right away.  If not, the rest of the unreleased tickets are sold first-come at the ferry dock.  Arrive one hour before your ferry time and get in the ticket window line. 

AFTER you purchase your ticket THEN park your car down the road in the visitor’s lot and take the free shuttle van back to the dock.

Price of Ferry Tickets to Culebra

Either online or in-person, the ticket prices are CHEAP!

• Adults  (Ages 12 – 59) $2.25 one way / $4.50 round trip
• Children ages (Ages 3 – 11)  $1.00
• Seniors (Ages 60 – 74)  $1.00
• Seniors (Ages 75 and up)  Free

*Prices subject to change, especially during peak season

What to know about the ferry ride to Culebra

It takes a little under an hour to get to Culebra from Ceiba on the ferry.  It is often a rough ride.  We went on a windy day and it felt like a roller coaster going over all the waves.   I watched out my window as the ferry dove into each wave and created a massive shower of water spraying against the windows of the boat each time.  

At first, everyone was cheering and lifting their arms up for each wave.  ….THEN it got eerily quiet and the crew started handing out barf bags!  I think about 10 people were seasick on our ferry ride to Culebra!! If you are prone to seasickness, maybe skipping the ferry to Culebra is your best choice!

The ferry itself is quite comfortable.  There is seating inside or outside, depending on the weather.  Although I think it could get very windy with outside seating. The seats are well-padded.  Hubby actually fell asleep during all the commotion but didn’t mind missing all the seasick sounds!

How long does it take to get to Culebra from San Juan

The total time to get from San Juan to Culebra is nearly 3 hours!

• + 1 hr car ride to Ceiba from San Juan
• + 1 hr arrive early at the ferry terminal
• +1 hr boarding and ferry ride to Ceiba

If you want to arrive in Culebra at 10 am to pick up a golf cart and drive to Flamenco Beach, you need to start your journey at 7 am  –or earlier if you anticipate taking a wrong turn or two!  We stopped at the Puerto Rican Bakery for breakfast sandwiches and donuts, so we left EVEN EARLIER than 7 am!  I HIGHLY recommend a pit stop at that bakery!!

Airplane Flight to Culebra – Method 2

Getting a quick flight to Culebra is a great idea if you are short on time and want to spend less of you vacation time traveling around from one place to another.

Silver Airlines or Cape Airlines fly to Culebra’s little Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport.  Get an airplane flight from San Juan to Culebra and you could be there ready to hit the beach in a half an hour’s time! 

Have your snorkel gear ready to go as soon as your plane lands with this perfect Culebra Island day trip itinerary that includes transfers and snorkeling in Culebra .

Day Trip to Culebra Island – Method 3

Taking an excursion and day trip tour is the way to go to Culebra if you don’t want to worry about the planning and transportation details.  There are many organized trips to Culebra Island that leave from San Juan. 

Take a look at some of these day trips to Culebra and choose your fun activities for the day! Most of the day trips include complimentary drinks.

Culebra Tours & Day Trips to Culebra

Need more info & things to do in Puerto Rico?

• Ultimate Guide to Puerto Rico
• Guide to San Juan
• Where to stay in San Juan
• Guide to the Island of Culebra
• Guide to the Island of Vieques
• Guide to El Yunque National Forest
• Tours in El Yunque
• Finding the Las Paylas Natural Water Slide
• Pinones Kiosks
• Best Instagram Spots in Puerto Rico
• Adventure Guide to Puerto Rico
• Scuba Diving in Puerto Rico

Getting around Puerto Rico

• Renting a Car in Puerto Rico

Conclusion of THINGS TO DO IN CULEBRA Puerto Rico

I hope you found some great ideas for things to do on a day trip to Culebra Puerto Rico! We definitely filled up our 1 day in Culebra with all of these activities. It was a vacation day well spent enjoying the island.

Did I leave anything out? Leave a comment about some of the exciting activities in Culebra

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Related posts:.

We went to Puerto Rico a few years ago, but only had two days there to explore San Juan. I really want to return to explore more, so I’m definitely saving your article. Thanks for sharing.

yes, in order to have a chance to visit Culebra, you really need 4 days in Puerto Rico! ..on your next visit 🙂

I never heard about Culebrea, but always wanted to visit Puerto Rico! I will save this article for my future travels ❤️

This is on our bucket list. I love that you can find pizza the world over!

This looks like such a beautiful area to visit! I would really like to visit that beach and chill out there.

I’d love to visit Puerto Rico, I also love traveling round by golf cart!

Culebra sounds like a beautiful and fun island with plenty of things to do. I would opt to go by ferry, although I would definitely get seasick when the sea is rocky.

Your content is great, I will come back to read it again. You also have a quality site.

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10 Things To Do In Isla Culebra: Complete Guide To Puerto Rico's Hidden Paradise

From beautiful beaches to tropical wilderness, Isla Culebra is an undeniable island gem with countless things to do.

Puerto Rico is known for many things. It's home to the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. It's one of the oldest colonies in the world and it features about 300 miles of pristine coastline for a delightful Caribbean trip under the sun. But, one interesting thing about the U.S. territory that many might not know is that Puerto Rico is actually comprised of far more than one island. In addition to the mainland, the archipelago actually features 143 smaller islands , one of which is the treasured gem of the Isla Culebra.

A bucket-list adventure like no other, Culebra Island is definitely worth visiting . Nestled off the east coast of the mainland, the small island offers tourists the chance to swim with sea turtles in pristine waters and be one with nature. Without a doubt, it's the perfect island getaway for any relaxing vacation.

Related: 10 Of The Best Caves In Puerto Rico, Ranked By Their Size & Depth

Top Things To Do In Isla Culebra

From its pristine beaches to its incredible wildlife refuge, here's everything to know about exploring Culebra Island .

1 Relax On The Beach

One of the more obvious things to do in Puerto Rico , especially on Culebra Island, is to visit the numerous beautiful beaches. From catching the sunset at Melones Beach to marveling at nature at Luis Pena Beach, the options are endless.

Just be sure to lather on the sunscreen and stay hydrated for a long day spent under the Puerto Rican sun.

2 Visit Flamenco Beach

When it comes to beaches on Culebra Island, there's one in particular that's deserving of its own shout-out: the world-famous Playa Flamenco . Nestled on the island's north shore, there's much to see and explore on this little slice of heaven, including the iconic graffiti-covered tanks.

The parking fee is $5. There's also an additional $2 fee in order to use the beach's amenities, including the bathrooms, rental chairs, and umbrellas.

3 Go On A Snorkeling Tour

Another beach must-see is Playa Tamarindo. For an incredible underwater experience, take a dive into the beach's waters with Beach Snorkel Culebra . The tour agency offers an exhilarating experience immersed in the ocean, from swimming with sea turtles to exploring the coral reefs.

• Address: Playa Tamarindo Culebra 0884, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico
• Visit the website for rates and availability.

4 Go Kayaking

Another way to experience Puerto Rico's shimmering waves is to cruise along them via a kayak. Kayaking Puerto Rico is one tour agency where tourists can access kayaking rentals for a thrilling time out on the ocean blue.

• Address: Tamarindo Beach, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

5 Visit The Culebra History Museum

Not into snorkeling? Take a deep dive into Puerto Rico's history instead at the Museo Histórico de Culebra. The history museum is located in the old weapons warehouse, called El Polvorín.

It serves as a great reminder of when the island served as the U.S. Navy's military training camp, hence the old war tanks, which were used for bombing practice, situated on Flamenco Beach.

• Address: 8P68+5P4, Fraile, Culebra 00775, Puerto Rico
• Hours: Open Fridays through Sundays from 10 am to 3 pm
• Cost: Admission is free; however, donations are encouraged

6 Hit The Open Waters On A Jet Ski

For a rip-roaring time, visit Culebra Jet Ski Tours , located in the southwest portion of the island. Embark on a two-hour tour on the waters via a jet ski at your own speed or on a boat. While out in the ocean, swim among the various marine life, from sea turtles to coral reefs. This experience is sure not to be easily forgotten.

• Address: BOX 946, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

According to the jet ski tour agency, it is located on Route 520 between the airport and the ecological school right across the street from the daycare playground's parking lot.

7 Set Sail To Culebrita

A trip to Isla Culebra wouldn't be complete without a stop at its little island sister, Isla Culebrita. Nestled off of Culebra's southeast coast, the tiny cay may be small but still offers a mighty list of exciting experiences.

Namely, the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge can be accessed on the island as well as a historic lighthouse.

• Address: 8Q8C+77G, Fraile, Culebra, Puerto Rico

8 See The Culebrita Lighthouse

Don't pack up and leave the little island just yet. Be sure to visit the historic gem of Culebrita Lighthouse, one of the cay's best-kept treasures. One of the last remaining structures in the archipelago left over from the Spanish era, construction on the Caribbean lighthouse was completed back in 1886.

• Address: 8Q7F+C2Q, Fraile, Culebra 00775, Puerto Rico

Although the landmark stands derelict now, the scenic trails surrounding it afford visitors exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

9 Hike To Resaca Beach

Located on the northern tip of the island, Playa Resaca is well worth the challenging hike it takes to get to it. Hike downhill about half a mile to get to the picturesque shoreline.

And, although the beach is not a swimming beach, it still affords visitors the opportunity to wander in nature and sunbathe on the warm sands.

10 Culebra National Wildlife Refuge

Another terrific option in terms of hiking, this protected area was founded in 1909 and serves as the home to lush dry forests and mangroves as well as hidden lagoons and spectacular beaches. Planning a visit? Check out the website for a complete list of the many species residing on the property.

• Address: 8PF6+GGP, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

Visitors are currently only able to explore the wildlife refuge in Cayo Luis Peña and Culebrita.

11 Best Time To Visit

Tropical weather is the dream. For an enjoyable vacation to Isla Culebra, consider visiting Puerto Rico in the mid-fall to early spring. The months ranging from November to March typically offer tourists warmer temperatures and the ability to avoid the rainy monsoon season, which usually lasts from the spring to the fall.

12 Best Ways To Get Around

Fun fact: Isla Culebra is only about 10 square miles. Meaning, navigating the island without a car is completely possible. Opt for a bicycle, scooter, or golf cart rental to zip around in.

There is also a wide range of rental car agencies, especially near the Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport, which is located in the southwest portion of the island.

13 Where To Eat

Dining out in Culebra offers travelers dishes from not just Puerto Rico, but other places around the globe.

Culebra Coffee

• Address: 2 Cll Pedro Marquez, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Healthy breakfast fare

Blac Flamingo Coffee

• Address: 10 Cll Jesus M Ortiz, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Breakfast staples

Treasure Bay Restaurant

• Address: Apartado 766, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Local fare

Dinghy Dock Restaurant

• Address: 372 Calle Fulladoza, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Caribbean fare

Harspoon's

• Address: 99 Bariada Clark solar 40, Cll Luis Muñoz Marin, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Caribbean cuisine

La Cocina Del Navegante

• Address: 33 Cll Pedro Marquez, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico
• Cuisine: Puerto Rican fare
• Address: 8M2X+WG4, Cll Pedro Marquez, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico

Related: These 10 Most Beautiful Puerto Rico Destinations Are Worth Exploring During Your Next Visit

14 Where To Stay

Puerto Rico has every type of hotel to suit every traveler and their budget.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Country Family

• Address: Cll. Juaquin Parrilla #68, Culebra 00775
• Amenities: Free parking

Palmetto Guesthouse

• Address: 128 Manuel Vasquez Street, Barrio Flamenco, Culebra 00775

Mid-Tier Hotels

Island Charm Culebra Studios & Suite

• Address: Calle 1 Lot C-7 Barrio La Romana Attn: Box 667, Culebra 775
• Amenities: Free parking and snorkeling

El Navegante de Culebra

• Address: Pedro Marquez Street 254, Culebra 00775

Upscale Hotels

Club Seabourne Hotel

• Address: State Road #252, Playa Sardinas Ii Ward, Culebra 00775
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, free airport shuttle, free parking, free shuttle service, bar/lounge

Costa Bonita Villas

• Address: Barrio Fraile, Sector Punta Canero Costa Bonita, Culebra 00775
• Amenities: Beachfront, coffee shop, child pool, free valet parking, room service

Related: 10 Most Iconic San Juan All-Inclusive Resorts Perfect For Exploring Puerto Rico’s Buzzing Capital

15 Tips To Know When Visiting

There are a plethora of budget-friendly hotels in Puerto Rico , and Isla Culebra is no different. In fact, that's pretty much all that will be found on this largely undeveloped island. For those desiring a more lavish vacation, a stay on the mainland is the best bet as there are few opportunities to head to Culebra Island for a day trip — namely, by plane or by boat.

For those that opt for this option, it's a good point to book travel arrangements ahead of time as they tend to book up quickly, especially in the peak season.

Although this destination will make tourists feel like they're in a different country, since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, U.S. citizens don't have to present a passport in order to enter .

Related: 10 Charming Mountains In Puerto Rico You Should Not Miss In 2023

16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Isla Culebra

A day spent on Isla Culebra could easily be filled with beach and water outings, from jet skis and kayaks to boats and snorkeling. Some key places to visit during a brief 24 hours on the island are Flamenco Beach and Tamarindo Beach. The former is arguably the island's crown jewel and is a truly Instagrammable spot for those looking to catch the sun's rays.

After a morning (and possibly afternoon) spent sunbathing and tackling the waves, explore the history of the island with a tour of the history museum. Then, if time permits, consider exploring the charming cay of Culebrita. Not only does it afford visitors the opportunity to trek through the wildlife refuge, but it also features the old lighthouse, plus some pretty amazing beaches.

For a helpful food itinerary, breakfast at Blac Flamingo Coffee is top of the list. Located near the island's airport, the quaint little coffee shop is the perfect morning stop for fuel to power through the day. A great lunch option is the iconic Dinghy Dock Restaurant. Just don't be alarmed if it's busy as this is a popular lunch, dinner, and drinks spot on the island.

Situated right across the waters is also Zaco's Tacos for those looking to tuck into some Mexican fare. And for a scrumptious dinner after a long day spent beachside, Harspoon's, which is located nearby Blac Flamingo Coffee, has rave reviews. It serves everything from American classics to seafood and local fare.

Q: Is Isla Culebra worth visiting?

Culebra Island is definitely worth visiting and offers tourists a number of outdoor and water adventures.

Q: What is Isla Culebra known for?

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico , Culebra Island is famed for its Flamenco Beach and beautiful cays.

Q: Is Isla Culebra expensive?

The island is quite affordable and there are a number of budget-friendly hotels available for those looking to book an inexpensive trip.

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Do you want to visit an island that feels like the Caribbean from 30-40 years ago with a Spanish flair? Then you want to head to the tiny island of Culebra, 20 miles east of Puerto Rico. Having been based in St Thomas for most of my 12+ year charter career, I have been to Culebra many, many times and I consistently say it is my favorite island in the Caribbean. Let’s dive into my top ten for the island of Culebra.

10.   Downtown Culebra –

Make sure you temper your expectations when you read “downtown,” because the island is only 5 by 7 miles in size and the town is only a handful of streets. With that said, it is a great little town to walk around in. The central plaza and church are the highlight and everything seems to revolve around this area. Personally, I love the post office, because it has an old west feel to it. If you sail over in a boat most people anchor in the huge bay of Ensenada Honda on the east side of town. I personally find this bay to be bumpy a lot due to the trade winds and I prefer to anchor on the other side of town in Sardinas Bay. It is always calm and never crowded. You just have the ferry coming in several times a day.

9.   Culebra Bridge –

The downtown area is divided by a natural canal that connects Ensenada Honda and Sardinas Bay. You would think you could go from one to the other easily, but the canal is fairly shallow and narrow. Plus there is a lift bridge you would have to deal with. The fun story of the bridge is that when it was built back in the day they had a dedication ceremony showing off the fact it was lifted up to let boats through the canal. Well that first time it got stuck and when they finally got someone out to get it back down they decided to never raise it again. It is fun jumping from the bridge into the canal below though.

Sailing With Charlie: The Escape Hatch on a Catamaran

8.   Las Pelás Bay –

On the southeast part of Culebra there is a bay behind a barrier reef that runs between Culebra and the tiny island of Pelá before it makes a 90 degree turn to the north. To get into this bay you have to head halfway into Puerto del Manglar before making an almost 180 degree turn around a shoal. Once inside Las Pelás Bay you will find a quiet anchorage with fantastic protection behind the reef…that is until the weekend when boats from Puerto Rico come to party.

7.   Point Soldado Bay –

The southernmost bay on the west coast is protected from the easterly trade winds, but a swell seems to usually make it around Point Soldado making this a day time anchorage. That does not matter because snorkeling here is a delight due to the coral farm the university has set up to grow and study various corals.

Water Island: The U.S. Virgin Islands’ Hidden Gem You Didn’t Know About

6.   Point Tamarindo Grande –

Further up the west coast past town and Sardinas Bay there is a good overnight anchorage on either side of Point Tamarindo, depending on which way the swell is coming in. Here I have always found great snorkeling that has captured our attention every time I have been here. Beware the next bay to the south is called Bahia Tamarindo and you will get lots of flies due to the island dump, so stay in the anchorages on either side of Point Tamarindo Grande.

5.   Luis Pena –

A mile west of Culebra is the small island of Luis Pena, which has been turned into a wildlife preserve. There are four anchorages around the island that provide “ok” to great protection. The snorkeling is spectacular all around the island and the northern anchorage has a beautiful small beach, although you must pay attention to the north swell at this anchorage.  

4.   Flamenco Beach –

Located on the north coast, this half moon shaped beach is a mile long and regularly is included in many top beaches list. The bay is somewhat protected and there are some food and drink vendor huts available. This is the one place on the island that can feel a bit crowded, but the beach is worth it. To add a bit of uniqueness, you will find two WW2 Sherman tanks on the beach. They are leftover artifacts from the period between 1939 and 1975 when the US Navy used the island as a gunnery range.

3.   Restaurants –

You would not think that an island with a population of 1700 and lacking any resorts or hotels (you will mostly just find guest houses and cottages) would have a great restaurant scene, but you would be wrong. While the food is excellent at many restaurants on the island, they all are very low key as far as atmosphere, which fits right in with the island vibe as a whole. While Mamacitas has the biggest name recognition I feel the Dinghy Dock is the best on the island with Zaco’s Tacos a close second.

2.   Dakity anchorage –

Located on the port side as you enter the large Ensenada Honda anchorage you will find a small anchorage behind a barrier reef. I have spent many nights here with absolutely nothing blocking the trade winds. Even when the winds are north of 20 knots the anchorage is flat calm and that breeze is so cool and refreshing. I always find interesting things to see when I snorkel here and the cut in the middle of the reef is very interesting to snorkel. This is one of my all time favorite anchorages due to the protection, quietness, and snorkeling.

1.   Culebrita –

I think you would be hard pressed to find anyone that does not have Culebrita as their #1 destination around Culebra. This little island off the east coast of Culebra is a deserted gem. There are two anchorages to choose from. The western one offers better protection and snorkeling, but the north one is off the stunning Tortuga Beach which is a small version of Flamenco Beach minus the tanks and vendors. During the week you will be one of the only boats here, but during the weekend it can be overwhelmed with power boats from Puerto Rico and takes on a party atmosphere. If you walk to the far eastern end of the anchorage you will find a notch in the rocks that the swell comes crashing in as you sit in a pool of water that is called the Jacuzzi. A trip to Culebrita would not be complete without a hike up to the lighthouse, which was the last lighthouse built by the Spanish Empire in the Americas. The vantage gives you a spectacular view of the surrounding reefs and you can see St Thomas to the East.

Captain Shane and Lily are back in the Virgin Islands running charters after spending two years cruising the Greater Antilles and Central America. You can read all about them and their travels at svGuidingLight on the web or your favorite social media.

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Drive to the  ferry terminal in Ceiba (about 1 hr from San Juan).  If you have a group you can drop them off at the ferry terminal with your gear.   Drive down the road about 200 meters and you will find a  parking lot  where you’ll have to pay around $15.00 per 24 hours for parking (the price was raised from $11.50 in 2023 and there are no alternatives). Either walk back to the ferry terminal or take the free shuttle back.  Each passenger is allowed one item of any size but they aren’t strict with this policy. They will occasionally stop you and charge you extra for beach chairs or a cooler.  Boarding starts one hour before departure and stops 10 minutes before departure. Missing the ferry is super common due to arriving late and things taking longer than you expected. Arrive early!  The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes in good conditions on the passenger ferry. It can get bumpy if there is a high swell. Be advised that people do throw up. If you get motion sick, take some Dramamine and grab a barf bag when you board. Also, get there early to be among the first to board to sit next to a fan.

Zaco's Tacos

Once you arrive, if you are hungry, you can walk to a few different food places.  Zaco’s Tacos  is open sporadically and is quite good, though not the cheapest taco you’ll ever buy. It has become our go-to spot for its good service and decor. A sandwich from  Pandeli  is a good breakfast option.  Take any taxi outside the ferry terminal to Flamenco Beach, usually in the form of a white 12-passenger van. It costs $5 per person each way. Some drivers will have Venmo but it’s best to have cash on hand. It’s a short drive to Flamenco Beach. Entrance to the beach is $2 each (cash only). I am not sure how they justify charging since all beaches in PR are public but that’s how it is.  They’ve recently used that money to develop buildings near the beach with restaurants, bars, and even a stage on holidays. 

Flamenco Beach

Find a palm tree to lie under and enjoy the best beach in all of Puerto Rico. If all the shade is claimed and you didn’t bring an umbrella, you can rent one there. Most everyone congregates on the left side of the beach where the water is calm and it’s close to the entrance. In the middle of the beach, there are more waves. On the far right side, there is a hotel hidden behind trees, you’ll see more people in the water in front of it. This is the kind of beach where you stay all day long. I’d say 4-5 hours is how long you should plan for. The water is its most brilliant with the overhead sun. Showing up at or before noon is the best time. If you arrive at 3:00 or later, it’s still awesome, but not the same.

The snorkeling is sublime in water as clear as a swimming pool. Although the marine life is not the healthiest or most abundant here, the further you swim out along the reef, the more healthy coral you will find. 

Walking along the beach to the left of the entrance you’ll find a WW2-era tank stuck rusting in the shallows, a relic from when Culebra and Vieques were used by the U.S. Military for war games, drills, and target practice.

The main downside of this beautiful beach is the sand flies. They retreat in the heat of the day and can be a minor annoyance, but the closer you get to dawn or dusk, the worse they get until it’s unbearable. Time your trip accordingly! 

Be aware that there can be a lot of seaweed on this beach. I don’t know how to predict it, but most of the many times I have gone to Flamenco Beach, there is no seaweed. Also, rough surf and rip tides force lifeguards to limit how much of the beach is open for swimmers. Usually, both ends of the beach are safe, and the middle is occasionally closed.

There will almost always be taxis waiting when you walk back to the parking lot. If not, it’s a short wait and there are numbers posted around you can call. You can always get the number of the taxi driver that takes you there. Sometimes they’ll arrange a pickup time with you to win your business. Get to the ferry terminal with some time to spare. Boarding usually starts later than in Ceiba, but it still closes 10min before departure, if it’s on time. There are restaurants close to the ferry terminal if you have time to kill. I like the pizza place.

If you decide to stay for an additional day, you’ll need to find a place to stay and a place to eat. I think Zaco Taco’s is the best restaurant on the island, but Mamacita’s , Dinghy Dock , and El Navegante are solid options as well. As for where you should stay, there aren’t too many options on Culebra. You’ll find most of them on Airbnb. You should be able to find something for less than $200/night for two people. You can also camp on Flamenco Beach. I would probably not attempt this because of the biting insects I have experienced there, but it could be awesome. If you are staying for two nights and feel like splurging a bit, I recommend the Flamenco Beach Villas .

This restaurant has a nice ambiance and tasteful decor. It sits on the edge of the water where big tarpons wait to be thrown scraps. Like other restaurants on Culebra, the food is rather expensive. The yuca mofongo is one of the best I have had, though. The crispy texture of the exterior was a nice touch.

Flamenco Beach Villas

These villas and condos are one of the very few options available for staying right on Flamenco Beach. I had an absolute blast staying on this beautiful property . We had one of the top floor rooms of the house, facing the beach. The view is incredible and the accommodation is comfortable. On the low end, the studio villa costs around $250/night. On the high end, the three-bedroom penthouse costs $450/night.

In the morning, take a taxi into town ($6.00 per person from Flamenco Beach Villas, $5.00 from the campground), or walk if you are closer. Grab breakfast from the Pandeli Bakery . Today you’ll be headed to what I consider the most beautiful beach in Puerto Rico: Tortuga Beach on Culebrita Island.  To get there, you’ll need to hire a water taxi or organize a tour. I highly recommend  Gammy’s Water Tours , we had a great experience with the couple that runs this business. In addition to dropping you off on the island, they also provide chairs, umbrellas, snorkel gear, and even a paddleboard for you to use. It costs $60.00 per adult. Choose the 8:00 am time slot if you want to see the beach with few or no other people on it. Pick the 9:30 am or 11:00 am to be on the island for peak hours when the beach gets overhead sun. They’ll pick you up in town and take you to their dock. The whole experience lasts 5 hours, from pick up to drop off. I recommend bringing snacks, or lunch prepared to eat there. They will boat you around the eastern side of Culebra Island and take you to Culebrita. The boat ride is beautiful and not too bumpy for most of it.

This small, uninhabited island is the easternmost island in the Puerto Rican archipelago and a designated nature reserve. The neighboring island of St. Thomas is clearly visible and is closer than the Puerto Rican main island. It’s a Caribbean Paradise with crystal-clear water and white sands. A historic lighthouse sits in disrepair at the high point of the island. Sea turtles munch on seagrass in the bay and coral reefs surround the island, making for some amazing snorkeling, particularly on the west side of the island. There you’ll find a healthy coral and fish variety, including large nurse sharks. The main reason you won’t find crowds here is because it’s still flying under the radar – a true hidden gem. Although some likely find the $60 taxi price prohibitive.

Depending on what time you get back from Culebrita, you may want either lunch or dinner. Especially if you didn’t bring any snacks to the island. Navegante is a good food option. The restaurant has a great view of the bay. There are a lot of seafood options and traditional Puerto Rican dishes. 

There isn’t a whole lot to do in Culebra after the sun sets, so a late lunch and late dinner isn’t a terrible idea. In our case, we thought we’d be able to watch a movie when we got back to our villa, but the internet was so slow that streaming on Netflix didn’t work.

La Cocina del Navegante

Although it is expensive at around $23.00 a plate, El Navegante has perhaps the best view of any restaurant on Culebra. I got a simple meal which I thought was good but not great. I’d be interested to give the place another try.

If you are an adventurer at heart and have decided to stay for a 3rd day on Culebra Island, get ready for some great snorkeling. Both of these beaches can be reached on foot, but not easily. There are three ways to get to these beaches: 1. Take a boat. Go on a tour with an agency that will boat you out to them. I recommend Bright Paddle Inc. 2. You can drive to Tamarindo Beach if you have a vehicle, park there, and hike to these twin beaches. 3. You can hike from the parking lot at Flamenco Beach down a trail for around 20 minutes. This is the most difficult but cheapest way to get there.

Carlos Rosario Beach

Carlos Rosario is right next to Tamarindo Grande Beach and is only separated by a tiny peninsula. Both have excellent snorkeling. The reef is significantly deeper at Carlos Rosario Beach. The visibility is usually excellent and the coral and sea life is abundant. There are sections, where the reef is bleached and dead. If you go out further, past the dead reef you’ll find more fish and healthy soft corals. Jellyfish are common here during their season, so a rashguard isn’t a bad idea. When swimming this reef, don’t over-exert yourself before you swim back to shore as it’s easy to journey out pretty far and get tired.

Tamarindo Grande Beach

Carlos Rosario is right next to Tamarindo Grande Beach and is only separated by a tiny peninsula.  Both have excellent snorkeling. The visibility is usually excellent and the coral and sea life is abundant. Unlike Carlos Rosario, the reef here is extraordinarily shallow, making this a very accessible reef for beginners. This beach is also more protected from large swell, making it the better choice in larger surf conditions. The reef has great diversity and is quite colorful thanks to a variety of sea fans that drift with the current.

Cayo Luis Peña

If you do decide to take a boat to these snorkeling beaches, you can organize a visit to Luis Peña Key. Luis Peña Beach is beautiful and has some decent snorkeling as well. I highly recommend a trip to this beach if conditions are favorable.

Get to the ferry terminal with some time to spare. Boarding usually starts later than in Ceiba, but it still closes 10min before departure, if it’s on time. There are restaurants close to the ferry terminal if you have time to kill. I like the pizza place.

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Day Trip to Culebra from San Juan: The Ultimate Guide!

Planning a day trip to Culebra takes a bit of preparation but it’s definitely do-able from San Juan. You’ll need to get up early in order to catch a flight or take the ferry, but you’ll have plenty of time to catch up on sleep once you’re laying on the beach. 

Lying 20 miles off the east coast of Puerto Rico , Culebra is a beautiful, low-key island surrounded by over 20 cays. The island is a haven for beach lovers, boasting beautiful white mangrove forests, sandy beaches, turquoise blue waters and lush scenery.

From around 1901 until 1976 Culebra was occupied by the U.S Navy and the Flamenco Peninsula was used for gunnery and bombing practice. The #1 attraction in Culebra is Flamenco Beach, where you can see tanks left there by the navy. 

Today Culebra is extremely popular for day trips and snorkeling tours and is considered one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico. If you have more than 3 days in Puerto Rico , make sure you add it to your itinerary. 

How to Get to Culebra from San Juan

The Culebra ferry departs from Ceiba ferry terminal, which is on the east coast of the island near Fajardo. The best way to get there is to rent a car from San Juan – I recommend checking prices using Priceline, Rentalcars.com or Discover Cars. 

Aim to pick up your car the night before, since you’ll need to depart quite early in the morning for your day trip to Culebra. The first ferry departs at around 3.30am and then there are ferries throughout the morning around 6am, 6.30, 7.30 and 9am. The earlier the better, since you’ll have more time on the island. Make sure you check the ferry schedules for up-to-date times, as they vary according to the seasons.

Tickets for the ferry cost $2.25 each way, which is a steal! The journey takes around 45 minutes for the passenger ferry and around 1.5 hours for the passenger + cargo ferry, so aim to take the passenger ferry if you can. 

Make sure you purchase your tickets online here a couple of weeks in advance, as they sell out quickly. The website will say there’s tickets available at the box office, but preference for these is given to residents and they tend to sell out. It would be unfortunate if you went all the way to the ferry terminal only to find the tickets are sold out! 

Check out my Culebra ferry guide for detailed information on booking tickets, parking and what to expect. 

There’s parking available at the ferry terminal, which costs $11 per day. Make sure you bring cash! Rental cars aren’t allowed on the cargo ferry, so you’ll have to leave your car in Ceiba and pick it up when you get back. 

If you don’t want to drive to the ferry terminal, there are private car services that will take you to Ceiba. They’re expensive though, so it’s generally cheaper to rent a car from San Juan airport or Isla Verde. 

The drive from San Juan to Ceiba can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour 45 minutes depending on traffic, time of day and which road you take. The toll road is the quickest, but you can’t pay tolls in cash so your rental car company will give you the option to pay a daily rate for tolls. You can refuse the toll option, but if you do drive on a toll road, you’ll pay a penalty fee for each toll violation when you return the car. 

If you don’t want to pay for tolls, avoid PR-66 and travel only on PR-3. 

By Plane 

The quickest way to get to Culebra is by taking a small plane. It’s possible to fly direct from San Juan to Culebra with Cape Air , or from Ceiba to Culebra with Air Flamenco . Due to the short runway in Culebra, the planes are small propeller aircraft, so if you’re worried about the safety of small aircraft, you may prefer to take the ferry. That being said, there have been no plane crashes on the Culebra route with either airline. 

Expect to pay around $200 round-trip from San Juan, or around $90-$120 round-trip from Ceiba. 

If you’re flying from Ceiba, you’ll need to rent a car and drive or book a car service from San Juan. The airport is called José Aponte Hernández Airport and is situated close to the Ceiba ferry terminal. 

When you land in Culebra you’ll arrive at Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport, where you’ll find taxis waiting outside the terminal. 

Getting Around Culebra

Once you arrive in Culebra you’ll find taxis waiting at the ferry terminal and at the airport that take visitors to Flamenco Beach. 

From the ferry to Flamenco Beach, the taxi costs $20 and seats 4 people. The taxis can be shared, so my friend and I were paired up with two other girls and whisked to Flamenco Beach for $5 per person. If you can’t see a taxi waiting, call one of the following companies:

If you plan on spending just a day in Culebra, then it’s easiest to just get around by taxi. However, you can also drive yourself around by booking a golf cart or Jeep rental. The companies usually offer free pickups from the ferry terminal and airport. Check out these websites for rentals: 

Beaches & Things to Do in Culebra

OK, so now you’ve made it to Culebra! Most visitors head straight to Flamenco Beach, which is voted one of the best beaches in the world. We spent our entire day here just soaking up the sun, drinking pina coladas and eating beach snacks. However, there are also some other great beaches on the island that you may want to check out. 

Flamenco Beach

Nestled on the north coast of the island, Flamenco Beach is voted one of the world’s best beaches and is famous for its painted tank. 

Here you’ll find an expansive stretch of white sand with turquoise blue water, backed by lush greenery. If you walk west along the beach you’ll come across the tank – a rusty relic left over by the U.S military. The tank is rotting in the ocean, but it is regularly painted in bright graffiti and is one of the most popular photo spots in Puerto Rico. 

When you arrive at the beach you’ll come across a car park and an amenities area with food kiosks, toilets and showers. There are also umbrellas and chairs available for hire, costing $20 for an umbrella and $10 per chair. 

Tamarindo and Carlos Rosario

Tamarindo Beach and Carlos Rosario Beach are part of the Luis Peña Nature Reserve and are home to a wide variety of underwater life, including remoras, bluetail fishes, stingrays,  angelfish and manta rays. They’re both excellent places to pop your snorkel on and see what you can find.

Tamarindo attracts fewer tourists than Flamenco Beach, so it feels quieter and a lot more secluded. There are no facilities at this beach, so you’ll need to make sure you bring your own food, drinks and beach chairs.  

Playa Melones

If you want to spot sea turtles, head to Melones Beach, which is located on the west of the island overlooking the Luis Peña Natural Reserve. The beach is rocky but is excellent for snorkeling and attracts plenty of turtles due to its abundance of seagrass. 

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The island’s coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests are teeming with wildlife, making it the perfect place for snorkeling or diving. If you want to rent snorkeling equipment, learn to dive or take a guided tour, check out some of these tour companies:

• Culebra Divers
• East Island Excursions
• Pure Adventures
• Kayaking Puerto Rico

Museo Histórico de Culebra 

Culebra is really all about laying on the sand, but if you want a break from the beach, check out the Museo Histórico de Culebra, which traces the history of the island. Housed in a former Naval munition warehouse, the museum provides information about the island’s ecosystem, as well as the military’s presence in Culebra.

Where to Eat in Culebra

When you arrive in Culebra it will be breakfast time! Check out the following places: 

Blac Flamingo Coffee – This adorable coffee shop has a bright pink exterior and cute outdoor seating – it’s the perfect place to grab breakfast before you head to the beach. On the menu you’ll find coffees, french toast, avocado toast, bagels, sandwiches and smoothies. 

Culebra Coffee – Located near the ferry terminal on the main strip, Culebra Coffee is open early at 7am and serves things like breakfast wraps, sandwiches, bagels and avocado toast. There’s also a gift shop attached, where you can buy beach towels, sarongs and clothing.  

For lunch and dinner, these are some other good options:

Restaurant Caracoles – Situated close to the ferry terminal by the water, Restaurant Caracoles specializes in seafood, offering things like mahi-mahi, octopus, shrimp, grouper and snapper. You can also order a variety of steaks, including churrasco, T-bone and filet mignon.

Dinghy Dock – Instantly recognizable by its bright blue facade and blue interior, this indoor/outdoor restaurant serves fresh seafood and Puerto Rican cuisine with beautiful views of the water. On the menu you’ll find plenty of fresh fish, along with a variety of daily specials. 

Zaco’s Tacos – If you fancy a quick bite before you head to the ferry, try Zaco’s Tacos, a colorful, quirky restaurant serving nachos, tacos and refreshing margaritas! 

Is A Day Trip to Culebra Worth It?

While Flamenco Beach is beautiful, there’s really not that much happening on the island. It’s very quiet, and the choice of accommodation and restaurants is limited. So I’d say one day in Culebra is sufficient. If you love snorkeling and diving, and you want to explore more of the island’s beaches, then maybe you’d want to hire a vehicle and stay one night on Culebra so that you can have a full two days there. 

Accommodation on Culebra consists of small guesthouses and apartments, so don’t expect luxury resorts or chain hotels if you do plan to stay overnight. 

I’ll be honest, my Culebra day trip was pretty exhausting. My friend and I had to get up in the middle of the night to drive to Ceiba and we didn’t get back to San Juan until about 9pm. If you have the cash and you don’t mind small planes, then I’d consider flying there over taking the ferry. 

However, the ferry is much, much cheaper and if you can snag the ferry times you want, then the journey shouldn’t be too bad. Just make sure you try to sit on deck so you don’t get too sea sick.  

A Final Word…

So that completes your day trip to Culebra, one of Puerto Rico’s most famous islands! Your day will involve an early start and a late finish, but it’s totally possible to see Culebra in one day. Make sure you take out some cash before you get to the island, as you’ll need it for things like parking at the ferry terminal, taxis on Culebra and snacks at the beach. If you do forget, there’s an ATM right by the ferry terminal, so make sure you bring a debit card. 

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1 thought on “Day Trip to Culebra from San Juan: The Ultimate Guide!”

Hello, I was wondering if there are ferry trips from August to September which is when my wife and I are planning to fly to Puerto Rico on vacation

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Culebra vs. Vieques: which Puerto Rican island is best to visit?

Aug 29, 2021 • 8 min read

The islands of Culebra and Vieques are separated from mainland Puerto Rico geographically and atmospherically © Stephani-Elizabeth / Getty Images

Separated from mainland Puerto Rico by an 8-mile stretch of choppy blue water, the two jewel-like Caribbean havens of Culebra and Vieques have an irresistible charm and laid-back beach vibe.

Disembark for a few days and you’ll uncover a wealth of surprises – horses roaming free in Vieques, endangered turtles in Culebra – and people who reclaimed their prized islands from the US Navy in 1975 (Culebra) and 2003 (Vieques) after more than 50 years of military occupation.

But it's the beaches that will have visitors to Culebra and Vieques purring with delight. Between them, the two members of the Spanish Virgin Islands have some of the most dazzling beaches in the Caribbean – best of all, many of them are deserted. Culebra and Vieques have yet to attract mass tourism, so there isn't a golf course, casino or humongous resort in sight.

Which island is best to visit on your trip to Puerto Rico ? Here's a quick guide to Culebra and Vieques to help you decide.

Best things to do in Culebra

Long feted for its diamond-dust beaches and world-class diving reefs, sleepy Culebra is probably more famous for what it doesn't have than for what it actually possesses. There are no big hotels here, no golf courses, no casinos, no fast-food chains, no rush-hour traffic and, best of all, no stress.

Situated 17 miles off mainland Puerto Rico, but inhabiting an entirely different planet culturally speaking, the island’s slow pace can sometimes take a bit of getting used to. It’s home to rat-race dropouts, earnest idealists, solitude seekers, myriad eccentrics and anyone else who’s forsaken the hassle and hustle of modern life. It's also home to a range of gorgeous natural areas, bays, snorkeling sites, hiking trails and all manner of fine beaches.

Culebra's best beaches

Culebra’s beaches offer wild natural beauty. Tourist facilities vary, with plenty at Playa Flamenco and blissfully few at Playa Zoni . Several beaches are only accessible by hiking in, increasing the possibilities of having a Caribbean beach to yourself, at least for a few hours.  Playa Carlos Rosario and Playa Tamarindo  are great for snorkeling.  Isla Culebrita and Cayo Norte are two of the more popular cays off Culebra and are easily visited by water taxi.

Top 12 beaches in Puerto Rico

Turtle watching

Two of Culebra’s most isolated beaches – Resaca and Brava – are nesting sites for the endangered leatherback sea turtle, the world's largest living sea turtle (adults can reach 6.5 feet in length and weigh 1500 pounds). The nesting season runs from April through early June. Each year, a few volunteers are accepted by the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources to monitor the delicate egg-laying process. Volunteers travel out to the beaches, where they count eggs, measure turtles and document the event for environmental records. The smaller hawksbill sea turtle (up to 3ft long and 250 pounds) also lays eggs on Culebra's beaches.

Diving and snorkeling

Despite reef damage from the US Navy testing era and endemic climate change pressures, Culebra retains some of Puerto Rico’s most amazing dive spots, including sunken ships, coral reefs, drop-offs and caves. Highlights include the Wit Power tugboat (which sank in 1984), the Geniqui Caves, El Mono boulders and the fish-filled water world of Cayo Ratón.

Good snorkeling sites can also be accessed from many beaches. Tamarindo is a good example of the bounty on offer: it teems with a spectacular variety of fish and features a 50ft wall of coral, all protected by the Luis Peña Channel Natural Reserve. Other good spots include Playa Carlos Rosario and Playa Melones .

Culebra National Wildlife Refuge

More than 20% of Culebra is part of a spectacular national wildlife refuge , which was signed into law more than 100 years ago. Most of it lies along the coastline, including more than 20 cays. Home to three different ecosystems, the refuge is a habitat for endangered sea turtles and the largest seabird nesting grounds in the Caribbean. For visitors, it's a place for hiking, birdwatching and secluded beaches.

Where to stay in Culebra

Several guesthouses are a short walk from the Culebra's ferry dock, though there are many options island-wide. Some even have docks for boats. Culebra has an excellent selection of rental apartments and houses of all shapes and sizes dotted around the island, including many Airbnb and HomeAway properties.

Where to eat in Culebra

For a small island, there are plenty of choices when it comes to eating. Seafood figures prominently, much of it sourced from the fishing boats bobbing in the bay. Not surprisingly, most of Culebra's restaurants are in the tiny town of Dewey. Beyond town, keep your eyes out for food trucks, which offer cheap, tasty eats perfect for beach picnics.

Best things to do in Vieques

Measuring just 21 miles long by 5 miles wide, Vieques is renowned for its gorgeous beaches, semi-wild horses and sparkling bioluminescent bay. It's substantially larger than Culebra, and while it's still a world away from the bright lights of the mainland, the larger population here means more accommodations, swankier restaurants and generally more buzz.

Since the official withdrawal of the US Navy in 2003, Vieques has regularly been touted as the Caribbean’s next "big thing," with pristine beaches and a coastline ripe for the developer’s bulldozer. Fortunately, environmental authorities swept in quickly after the handover and promptly declared all the former military land (70% of the island’s total area) a US Fish and Wildlife Refuge. This has meant that the bulk of the island remains virgin territory. Development elsewhere has been slow and low-key. Understandably, Vieques’ residents – many of whom are continental US expats – are fiercely protective of their Caribbean nirvana.

Best beaches in Vieques

Now protected in the national wildlife refuge, many of Vieques' beaches are clean, untrammeled and paradisiacal. Calm and clear, Playa Caracas is reached on a paved road and has gazebos with picnic tables to shade bathers from the sun.

There's excellent snorkeling – lots of healthy sea fans and underwater life – off the eastern side of the beach. A favorite with locals, the gorgeous Playa La Chiva  is long and open with occasionally rough surf. It's easy to find your own large patch of sand, and you can find shade in the shrubs. There’s good snorkeling toward the eastern side of the beach, just off a small island.

Secluded  Playa La Plata is as far east as you can go. It's spread across a mushroom-shaped bay with icing-sugar sand and a calm sea that shimmers with a thousand different shades of blue. The snorkeling is good toward the western side of the beach. The road here is very rough; only a 4WD will get you close without walking. The deliciously deserted  Playa Escondida has absolutely no facilities, just jaw-dropping beauty.

Vieques National Wildlife Refuge

Lying within the protected confines of the  Vieques National Wildlife Refuge are some of the best reasons to visit Vieques. The refuge, once land used by the US military, protects vast tracts of largely pristine land containing four different ecological habitats: beaches, coastal lagoons, mangrove wetlands and forested uplands. It also includes an important marine environment of seagrasses and coral reefs.

Many colorful species survive in these areas, including the brown pelican and the endangered West Indian manatee. Vieques’ dwarfish thicket-strewn forest, which includes some indigenous cacti, provides one of the best examples of dry subtropical forest in the Caribbean.

Perhaps the finest Giant Ceiba Tree in Puerto Rico is situated on the right-hand side of the road as you head toward Punta Arenas , adjacent to the Mosquito Pier, a popular snorkeling site. Rumored to be 400 years old, it has become a symbol of the island's resilience.

Bahía Mosquito (Bioluminescent Bay)

Locals claim that the magnificent Bahía Mosquito  has the highest concentration of phosphorescent dinoflagellates not only in Puerto Rico, but in the world. A trip through the lagoon – take a tour – is nothing short of psychedelic, with the movement of your kayak, paddle, electric boat, even fish, whipping up fluorescent-blue sparkles below the surface. Reservations for tours are essential in high season; the best time to go is at new moon.

Where to stay in Vieques

Vieques has plenty of accommodation options for travelers. In Esperanza, boutique hotels and guesthouses line oceanfront Calle Flamboyan, while others are scattered among the surrounding hills. Most accommodations in Isabel Segunda are easily reached on foot from the ferry. Further afield, you'll find some of Puerto Rico's most interesting small, luxurious hotels, or you can stay on the beach if you're up for camping.

Where to eat in Vieques

Good food in a variety of cuisines and price ranges can be found across the island, and unsurprisingly seafood figures prominently. In Esperanza, most cafes are on Calle Flamboyan with enviable views over the turquoise water to Cayo de Tierra. Isabel Segunda's restaurants dot the town and have the best selection of Caribbean cuisine.

When to visit Culebra and Vieques

• The spring shoulder season (April through June) brings picture-perfect weather and fewer travelers. There aren't many discounts on lodgings, but you'll have less company on the beach; some days, it might just be you and the birds.
• The best viewing of the bioluminescent bay in Vieques is during the new moon. Some operators don’t go out when the moon is full. From April through June, wildlife fans can volunteer for a turtle-egg protection project on Culebra.
• The famous Caribbean trade winds gently buffet these two islands, but the weather is warm and balmy just about every day of the year.

When is the best time to visit Puerto Rico?

How to get to Culebra and Vieques

There’s frequent air service to both islands from San Juan. Much cheaper are the regular public ferries between Ceiba and the islands. In January, ferry passengers can sometimes spot humpback whales.

You might also like: How sustainable tourism is thriving in Puerto Rico East End Puerto Rico, the perfect San Juan alternative Puerto Rico's first ever glamping site lies beside beaches and nature reserves

This article was originally published in November 2011 and updated in August 2021. 

This article was first published November 2011 and updated August 2021

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Best Time to Visit Culebra, Puerto Rico: Season by Season Breakdown

Julia June 21, 2023 Puerto Rico , United States Leave a Comment

Determine the best season to visit Culebra with this detailed breakdown of what to expect on the island.

Get ready to be enchanted by the island of Culebra! Located in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Puerto Rico, this hidden gem is a playground of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a brilliant underwater world. Once you go once, you’ll definitely want to come back! But first things first… when should you go to Culebra?

Having made a few trips to this beautiful Puerto Rican island, I’ll take you through the best time of year to visit Culebra by diving into each specific season and what the island will be like. So, grab your sunglasses, lather on some sunscreen, and let’s start diving into the seasons of Culebra Island!

Disclosure:  Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

See why you should visit Culebra!

Check out my short video featuring Culebra, Puerto Rico and its famous Flamenco Beach to see if you want to make the journey. Then read on to find out the best time of year to visit Culebra Island!

Spring in Culebra

March – May

In spring, Culebra starts to reawaken from the low season with a refreshing breeze and warmer temperatures. From March to May, the island boasts average temperatures hovering around a perfect 78°F (25°C). This mild climate is perfect for strolling along the shorelines, feeling the sand between your toes, and listening to the soothing sound of the waves.

During spring, Culebra’s most iconic beach, Flamenco Beach , offers a tranquil oasis for beach seekers before the peak tourist season of summer arrives. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Snorkel along reefs near the shoreline. Stretch out on your beach towel and soak up the sun’s warm rays. There’s no wrong way to enjoy springtime in Culebra.

Pros of Visiting Culebra in Spring

• Quiet beaches: Spring offers the perfect opportunity to experience Culebra’s stunning beaches without the crowds. You can have a whole stretch of sand to yourself, where you can perfect your sandcastle-building skills or engage in a competitive game of beach volleyball with your friends.
• Mild temperatures: Springtime temperatures in Culebra are just right, allowing you to bask in the sun without feeling like a grilled lobster. And trust me, I turn the same color as a lobster! It’s not too hot, not too cold, but just perfect for catching some rays and working on that sun-kissed glow. ( Reef-safe sunscreen is still recommended to protect from those harmful UV rays!)
• Colorful surroundings: Spring brings a burst of colors to Culebra. From the turquoise water to the lush green hills and blooming flowers and trees, it’s like living in a real-life Instagram filter!

Cons of Visiting Culebra in Spring

• Limited services : Since spring falls just before the peak tourist season, some services might be closed or limited. You might have to hunt down that perfect seaside cocktail or deal with a slightly longer wait at the local seafood joint. But hey, a little adventure never hurt anyone!
• Pesky pollen: With all the blooming flowers comes the inevitable pollen. If you’re prone to sneezing fits or look less-than-fabulous with watery eyes, make sure to pack some antihistamines.

Learn all about visiting Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Summer in Culebra

June – August

Culebra summer brings endless sun-soaked days, lively nightlife, and busy beaches! From June to August, Culebra comes alive with energy and excitement. Average temperatures rise to 85°F (29°C), appealing to all the local beach goers.

With its reputation as one of the world’s top snorkeling destinations, Culebra really shines during the summer months. Grab your snorkel gear and get ready to explore the reefs of Carlos Rosario Beach. Swim among schools of tropical fish. Marvel at the colorful coral formations. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a sea turtle gliding through the water.

While the occasional tropical shower may hit the island, fear not! These rainstorms usually pass quickly, leaving you with more time to indulge in everything the island has to offer. Dance the night away at local beachfront bars. Savor delicious seafood delicacies. Mingle with fellow travelers under the blaring sun and starry skies.

Pros of Visiting Culebra in Summer

• Lively atmosphere: Summer in Culebra is like a non-stop party – the island truly comes alive with tourists and locals alike! From beach parties to waterfront bars, there’s always a chance to let loose.
• Excellent snorkeling conditions: The warm summer waters of Culebra are an underwater playground for snorkelers and divers. Explore the colorful coral reefs, swim alongside tropical fish, and maybe even spot a sea turtle, octopus, or shark!

Cons of Visiting Culebra in Summer

• Heat and humidity: Summer temperatures can rise higher than your enthusiasm for the world’s largest sandcastle competition. It’s important to stay hydrated, lather on the sunscreen, and embrace the inevitable sweat.
• Brief tropical showers: Being a tropical island, summer showers in Culebra have a sense of humor – they come and go quicker than a seagull stealing your sandwich. Keep your beach towel and dry bag handy as you navigate these unexpected downpours.
• Summer crowds: Culebra’s peak season is summer, which makes booking trips to Culebra more challenging due to the number of people wanting to experience it’s amazing summer lifestyle. You’ll need to plan ahead for ferries, tours, and hotels. This is particularly true on weekends when Puerto Rican mainlanders flock to Culebra for a beach break!
• Hurricane season: While unlikely to hinder your trip to Culebra, June to November in Puerto Rico is hurricane season and there is a small chance you’ll run into bad weather. Just remember to purchase travel insurance and keep flexible travel plans in case of any weather-related disruptions.

Explore the many ways to get to Culebra Island in Puerto Rico.

Fall in Culebra

September – November

As the crowds of summer disperse and the temperature starts to drop, fall brings one of the best seasons to visit Culebra. From September to November, average temperatures run a more pleasant 80°F (27°C), creating perfect beach weather with the water warmed from the summer heat.

Fall is also the perfect time to venture off the beaten path and discover more secluded spots, such as Zoni Beach. What was once crawling with tourists is replaced with a sense of serenity. Let the waves relax you and take a moment to appreciate the untouched beauty of Culebra.

Fall is also one of the best times to explore Culebra’s trails and nature reserves. Hike through the wilderness of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, home to various bird species and stunning vistas. Breathe in the fresh air. Listen to the sounds of nature. Let the island of Culebra charm you.

Pros to Visiting Culebra in Fall

• Peaceful beaches: Autumn in Culebra is one of the best kept secrets of the island. It becomes a quiet oasis, providing a perfect escape from the chaos of everyday life. You can wander along secluded beaches and reconnect with your inner beach bum or enjoy long walks on the shore – without any crowds!
• Pleasant temperatures: Fall brings some relief from the scorching summer heat, allowing you to explore the island comfortably. It’s like Mother Nature’s way of saying, “Here, have some gentle breezes and mild sunshine while you frolic in the waves.” It’s perfect beach weather.

Cons to Visiting Culebra in Fall

• Limited tourist facilities: With fewer visitors during the fall season in Culebra, some tourist facilities may have reduced operating hours or limited services. But fear not, you’ll find a handful of options open on the island and you’ll get to know more of the local gems on the island this way.
• Mosquito season: Fall also brings out the local mosquitoes, who are eager to join you for an alfresco dinner. Be sure to pack bug spray and consider it a must-have accessory.
• Hurricane season: Similarly to summer, June to November is hurricane season in Puerto Rico. However, it is unlikely that a hurricane will impact your Culebra trip. To hedge your bets, purchase travel insurance and keep your travel plans flexible when possible.

Check out the best things to do on Culebra Island!

Winter in Culebra

December – February

While the rest of the world may be covered in a thin layer of snow, the island of Culebra remains a tropical haven during the winter months. From December to February, average temperatures rest comfortably at 75°F (24°C), offering a perfect winter escape.

In fact, winter is my favorite time to go to Culebra as there are less people and the air and water temperatures stay moderate enough to enjoy the beach and swim in the beautiful water. Just be cautious as winter also brings more frequent rain showers – so be prepared.

If you’re interested in water-based activities, such as kayaking, winter is a great time to explore them. Paddle through the mangrove forests that fringe the island’s coast, navigate the winding channels, and discover hidden lagoons. Grab a place to stay on Culebra and explore the island at your own pace.

Pros to Visiting Culebra in Winter

• Tropical winter getaway: While the rest of the world bundles up, you can bask in the warm sunshine of Culebra’s winter. It’s like having your own personal Caribbean island to escape the winter blues while making everyone back home jealous!
• Adventure activities: Winter in Culebra is the perfect time to indulge in water-based activities. From kayaking through mangrove forests to snorkeling among tropical fish, embrace your inner explorer.

Cons to Visiting Culebra in Winter

• Frequent rain showers: Winter in Culebra can be a bit of a diva – she likes to make an entrance with her rain showers. But a little rain never hurt anyone, right?
• Decreased tanning: The frequent rain showers might not be ideal for sun worshippers, but you’ll still find beautiful weather and strong sun peaking out between the showers.
• Limited services: As winter is still considered low season in Culebra, some businesses, accommodations, and restaurants operate on reduced hours or have limited availability compared to the busier summer months. However, essential services, such as transportation, accommodations, and dining options, are still available.

So…Best Time to Visit Culebra Island?

If you’re looking for the most popular time to visit Culebra, it’s definitely summer. This is when the crowds set in, everything on the island opens up, and the beaches, bars, and restaurants will be the most lively – as you can see above.

That being said, for me, the best time to visit Culebra Island is during the off-season periods, away from the peak summer heat and crowds. Since Culebra enjoys a warm climate year-round, you’ll still have amazing weather to enjoy the stunning beaches of Culebra while avoiding the scorching summer temperatures and crowds.

This allows you to fully appreciate the island’s natural beauty, pristine beaches, and marine life without feeling overcrowded or overheated. Not to mention, you’ll have an easier time getting to and from Culebra Island and staying overnight if you so choose.

What it really comes down to when trying to decide when to visit Culebra is that any time of year is great. The most important part is that you do visit Culebra! It’s such a beautiful island and even in peak season, it’s worth fighting for a spot on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world – Flamenco Beach.

Explore More of Culebra, Puerto Rico

Whichever season you choose to visit Culebra, rest assured that this Caribbean paradise has something incredible to offer. You’ll just have to embrace the quirks and challenges that each season brings, and remember, a little humor and adaptability go a long way in creating unforgettable travel memories.

So pack your sense of adventure, stylish rain gear, and all of the sun protection you can fit in your luggage and get ready to experience the magic of Culebra!

Here are some more posts to help you plan your time in Culebra and other parts of Puerto Rico.

• How to Get to Culebra, Puerto Rico: 4 Key Transportation Options
• 10 Best Things to Do in Culebra, Puerto Rico
• Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico: Everything to Know Before You Go
• 16 Helpful Things to Know Before Traveling to Puerto Rico
• 10 Top Things to Do in San Juan for the Trip of a Lifetime
• Where to Stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico: Best Hotels & Areas
• How to Visit Mosquito Bay: The Vieques Bioluminescent Bay

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Our family returned from our first trip to Culebra, and it won't be our last! There were not a ton of Trip Reports available recently, so I thought I'd post a summary of our week. The week we visited was both Semana Santa and a main spring break week, so the island was very busy!

Accommodations: We stayed at Club Seabourne in the Family Villa. We loved the pool, breakfast, and beautiful grounds. The beds were comfortable and the AC was cold.

Transport: We flew Cape Air via San Juan . For some reason when we were checking flights , it was cheaper to fly Cape Air to Culebra than to just go to San Juan, so we went with it! Once on the island, we rented a Hyundai Venue from Choco's Broncos. They were excellent to work with, and it was very convenient to pick up/drop off the car right at the airport. We preferred having the SUV for all of our beach and snorkel gear vs a golf cart, but a golf cart would make parking in town easy.

-- Flamenco beach is beautiful and huge. We had some pretty big surf there though so we only went there one day.

--Snorkeling at Tamarindo was quite good. We saw several turtles and rays right off the beach, and the coral to the right was decent. By 9:00, the beach was packed with beginner snorkelers so we moved on (I'm sure it was busier than usual due to the Easter week)

--Melones was pretty good as well. The coral was not quite in as good condition as I expected from previous reports, but a good snorkel. There are SO many urchins at the entry point though, be cautious!

--Zoni beach was our favorite beach. It was just gorgeous and we found beautiful shady spots under palm trees each time we went there. Snorkeling there was excellent too although choppy.

--Our favorite snorkel was hands-down at Tamarindo Grande. The coral right off the beach there was fantastic and worth the 20 minute hike. On the day we were there, there was a lot of boat traffic, but it was still a great place to snorkel and hang out. Unfortunately, we did not snorkel Carlos Rosario due to the waves.

Boat Trip: we booked a snorkel charter with Captain Bill on his catamaran and loved it. We snorkeled an offshore reef at Culebrita, then visited the main Culebrita snorkel beach and explored Culebrita, and finished up at Cayo Norte. The offshore snorkel and Cayo Norte snorkels were really good. The price was more expensive than a water taxi but was still a good value ($200/pp with a max group size of 6, included a charcuterie lunch and a rice and fish dinner!). We let him know we were into snorkeling, and were very lucky to get paired up with another group who also loved snorkeling. I imagine if we were grouped with some non-swimmers, we may not have gotten as many snorkel stops.

Restaurants: we loved Dinghy Dock, Nina's, and La Cocina del Navigante. Several places closed on Good Friday - Easter, which is something to be aware of over Semana Santa.

Overall, we really enjoyed Culebra. It does not have as many beautiful sandy beaches in number as Vieques, but those that it does have are spectacular. We also found it a bit easier to get around on Culebra due to its smaller size. The views of Luis Pena, Cayo Norte, Vieques, St Thomas , Culebrita, and the main island from the beaches are stunning. The only downside were the bug bites (they really love me and my son!). We would love to return some day.

3 replies to this topic

Thank you for sharing your trip with the forum. It's good to hear that you enjoyed your vacation.

Very fun family trip - thanks for your report.

Great trip report - thanks for sharing. I enjoyed snorkeling tamarindo grande as well.

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Culebra Hotels and Places to Stay

16 Best Low Key Caribbean Islands For A Peaceful Vacation

• Discover the best under-the-radar Caribbean beach getaways that offer pristine sands, azure waters, and the perfect escape for the weary traveler.
• St. Vincent & The Grenadines is an idyllic destination with a gentle vibe, volcanic scenery, and secluded cottages for a peaceful and romantic stay.
• Explore low-key Caribbean islands like Dominica and Guana Island for quiet charm, stunning nature, and unique experiences away from the bustling crowds.

What is the idea of a perfect getaway? For a few people, it is a peaceful place to relax, repose, and get rejuvenated enough to hop back to your everyday frenetic schedule; if a holiday seeker falls into this category and is looking for the ideal beach destination, then check out these under-the-radar beach getaways. They are the best Caribbean Islands to explore in April or May.

These low-key Caribbean beach destinations tick all the right boxes: powdery pristine sands and the azure ocean for a ready dip. These are perfect options for the weary traveler who needs to go remote (even incognito) for a few days and enjoy the heavenly combination of sun, sand, and sangrias. Here is the best compilation of the best Caribbean Islands to visit for the holidays .

UPDATE: 2023/10/27 23:42 EST BY REENA JAIN

Even More Low-Key Caribbean Islands To Visit And Explore!

There are many low-key Caribbean Islands where tourists interested in solitude and serenity will have the best of their vacation. We have updated this list with two more quiet Caribbean islands as well as value adds for a memorable vacation in complete serenity. Have fun!

Related: Caribbean Paradise: Top 10 Islands To Visit In April

St Vincent and the Grenadines

St. Vincent & The Grenadines (comprising 32 remote islands and cays) is the best location for a quiet stay in the Caribbean away from the modern luxuries (without TV, phone, or Wi-Fi) in full serenity and natural beauty. With thatched roof cottages, a gentle vibe, and a revitalizing atmosphere, it is ideal for honeymooners and romantic couples. Plus, its stunning volcanic scenery and pirate-lair harbors enhance the travel experience. Visitors can stay in any of the cottages or stay on adjacent Bequia and take the local ferry across for a day trip.

• How to reach: Fly into St. Vincent's Argyle International Airport (SVD). Alternatively, St. Vincent and the Grenadines are also accessible by water. Several cruise lines call at the islands, and individual yachts or sailboats can dock at marinas and ports on the islands of the Grenadines.

French Antilles

The French Antilles, a group of calm islands with a dash of Caribbean flair and activities, are incredibly charming . While St. Barts is famed for its elegance and sophistication, as well as its nicer beaches, Guadeloupe is a tropical paradise with its own volcano, sports, and Creole culture. Martinique, on the other hand, offers some of the best hiking trails in the Caribbean. For visitors looking for delectable culinary experiences, St. Martin's Grand Case Boulevard boasts some of the best French and Creole food in the Caribbean, as well as prominent French chefs.

• How to reach: To reach French Antilles in the Caribbean, travelers can fly to major airports in Martinique or Guadeloupe, with direct international flights or connecting through nearby Caribbean hubs.

Another Caribbean island that is quieter than usual is Dominica. This mountainous Caribbean island is considered the northernmost of the Windward Islands, giving it a more "remote" feel. Here, people can explore various natural attractions, including Trois Pitons National Park, Trafalgar Falls, and the narrow Titou Gorge. The capital, Roseau, is filled with stunning architecture and botanic gardens, making it a must-see portion of the island.

What makes Dominica special is its quiet, low-key charm. Although the Caribbean is often considered bustling with vacationers from near and far, Dominica is one of the quieter, more relaxing options. According to the country's website , Dominica is often called the Caribbeans' best-kept secret, so it's certainly worth taking a vacation to.

• How to reach: You can get to Dominica either by plane or sea ferry. The island has two airports, Melville Hall Airport in the north and Canefield Airport in the South.

Saint Kitts

As one of the first Caribbean islands colonized by the Europeans, Saint Kitts has a blend of culture, history, and laid-back charm. Here, people can stay in some of the area's finest hotels, as well as local rentals. Saint Kitts is a dual island connected to Nevis, which makes it one of the more interesting choices on this list. It's known for its pristine beaches, mountains, and natural wonders. On top of that, Saint Kitts is the larger island of the two, filled with nature trails, opportunities for adventure, and peacefulness throughout most seasons. Because Saint Kitts isn't quite as popular as the other large Caribbean islands, it should be on travelers' radar if they prefer something chill.

• How to reach: Fly to Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport, with connections from various international hubs, or access the island via cruise ship.

The next laid-back Caribbean island is Montserrat. Here, guests can experience a quiet, mountainous Caribbean island considered a British overseas territory. In addition, Montserrat features a somewhat infamous volcano, Soufrière Hills, which erupted in the 1990s and destroyed the south of the island. Of course, the island was able to rejuvenate the aftermath, but it remains a sore subject to locals and officials alike. With mountains galore, Montserrat feels much more rugged and adventurous than some of the others on this list, so for people wanting that, it's a great choice.

Furthermore, the north side of the island remains more popular, filled with coral reefs, beaches, cliffs, and shoreline caves. The nature here is absolutely stunning, with many visitors describing it as paradise.

• How to reach: Montserrat is accessible by air, with flights from Antigua or St. Kitts. Ferries also run from Antigua. Check schedules and availability before traveling.

The official language of Montserrat is English, so that will make things easier for tourists coming from English-speaking countries. Of course, it's always nice to try and adapt to other languages that may be spoken, but overall, it should be English.

Puerto Rico

Another laid-back Caribbean island to consider is Puerto Rico. Although this country is a bit more known, that doesn't mean it's packed or a party destination. Of these islands, Puerto Rico has one of the strongest identities, being a mix of cultures and landscapes and easily accessible to American travelers. Here, visitors from the United States do not need a passport, which makes coming here super easy. With that said, the capital, San Juan, is more popular, filled to the brim with music, hotels, restaurants, and traffic.

So, heading to a smaller town along the coastline might be better for people wanting something peaceful. Puerto Rico offers some of the most charming towns and people in the world, so it's a highly recommended destination in the Caribbean islands.

• How to reach: To reach Puerto Rico in the Caribbean, fly into Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan from major U.S. cities or other Caribbean destinations.

Guana Island – British Virgin Islands

Guana is one of the 16 inhabited islands of the around 40 islands that make up the British Virgin Islands. It is an 850-acre covering island that has miles and miles of white sands with not a soul in sight; only 36 guests are allowed at a time.

With seven beaches, undulating mountains, verdant gardens, organic orchards, many hiking trails, and flamingos running amok, it’s the best place to be. The island, with its endemic wildlife, is popular among nature lovers.

• How to reach: Fly into British Virgin Islands’ Beef Island Airport through Antigua or San Juan, St. Thomas.

Note: There are only 18 rooms and villas on this private island, so it is as exclusive as it gets, and it feels like a private domain

Related: Spring In The Caribbean: 10 Best Islands To Visit In May

This tiny island covering 36 square miles packs a big punch. It has plenty of tranquil spots to relax and leave all the stresses behind. The island is a beautiful combination of gorgeous beaches and lush rainforests. Nevis may be a tranquil spot, but it packs wellness, adventure, and sumptuous cuisine in one lucrative package. Nevis doesn't have many hotels apart from the standout Four Seasons Resort. However, one can always try some of the best boutique plantation resorts, such as the Golden Rock Inn. There is also an ancient sugar mill turned guest house, which promises amenities wrapped in luxury.

• How to reach: Fly from the USA to St. Kitts and take a ferry or water taxi to reach the island.

Note: Relaxing or taking it easy on Nevis is called liming.

Related: Island Hopping On A Budget: 10 Caribbean Gems For An Affordable April Getaway

Saba is a diver-friendly island that not many people know about. The crystal clear water and its temperature are perfect for exploring the diversity of marine life. Saba also offers stunning views, and one can take a peek at the panoramic views from a vantage point, Mt. Scenery’s peak, Elfin Forrest.

The island is also dubbed the “Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean ” with its stunning vistas, diverse ecosystems, adrenaline-inducing diving & hiking, and evolved art scene; it is nothing short of a paradise for secluded vacation seekers.

• How to reach: One can reach Saba by flight or via ferry via St. Maarten Island (SXM, Princess Juliana Airport).

Note: The Bird’s Nest restaurant at the Queens Garden Resort has a private, intimate dining table set atop a 100-year-old mango tree. One can enjoy a meal there while overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Despite St. Lucia’s 20-year-old tourist history, it still features among the 9 less crowded Caribbean Islands that you should visit . It is a blessing in disguise for tourists looking for a serene holiday. Book a luxurious room at the Landings Resort and Spa, which has around 70 rooms; enjoy the lavish perks of the resort.

A mud bath at the Sulphur Springs and scaling heights to the Tet Paul Nature Reserve are just a few of the vacationer’s favorite things. Tourists can also enjoy a day on the terrace, watching the sun go down and painting the sky beautiful shades of orange and pink. There is a private beach with access to numerous water sports.

• How to reach: Reach St. Lucia via direct flights (American Airlines) from Miami (MIA) and New York (JFK).

Note: Try the popular local dish, Gros Islet Fish Fry, on Friday nights.

Salt Cay is a remote location, so you cannot expect modern facilities. However, people from around the world visit here to get what they don't get in their bustling cities. It's a rare feat to watch whales swimming around or enjoy the calming activity of snorkeling in the blue seas. There's a restaurant and bar on the island, Coral Reef Bar & Grill, which offers you a drink and a bite while watching the quiet waters lapping the shore. There is something quaint and tranquil about the island, from the colonial buildings in Balfour Town to the South District Beach, the vantage point to watch the sunset.

• How to get there : Though the airstrip is tiny, Salt Cay has one, and you can reach there via Air Turks & Caicos and fly there from Providenciales.

Note: The best way to move around the island is via bicycle, which is an excellent commuting vehicle

The Little Cayman Islands

To all those tourists who want to get far away from the "madding crowd," you should try the unique Cayman Islands all-inclusive resorts for a relaxing beach vacation. The island is a favorite among divers and beach enthusiasts and is known to the diving community as the “Mecca of the Caribbean.” Most vacationers head to Bloody Bay Marine Park to explore the popular diving gems.

Set out to explore the Point of Sand for a swim or take a boat to explore the deserted Owen Island to enjoy nature in all its glory. You can also rent a scooter to explore the pretty nook and corner of the island and stop for refreshments at the East End. Put on your explorer’s hat to find out more about Cayman’s spectacular crystal caves.

• How to reach: Fly from Grand Cayman via a charter flight to Little Cayman. There are direct flights from Miami to Cayman Brac and a connecting one to Little Cayman.

Note: Bring an underwater camera to capture incredible underwater scenes, especially stingrays and exotic tropical fish in all their glory

Renaissance Island In Aruba

Renaissance Island Aruba is a popular go-to destination for avid travelers. It is a tiny man-made paradise with two beaches, accessible only to in-house guests at the Renaissance Aruba Beach Resort & Casino.

Take a boat from the island’s capital to reach the destination; however, one must show them the hotel's key for a free ride. This palm-fringed island boasts a private beach bar to comfortable hammocks for all-day lazing. And one may have some cute, not-so-little pink flamingos to greet on the island. Feed these friendly creatures and spend time with them on Flamingo Beach.

• How to reach : Reach the island via a water taxi ride from Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba . Take a direct flight from Miami to Aruba.

Note: Renaissance Island has an adult-only beach featuring a seating area, lounge chairs, water hammocks, and food and beverages.

Culebra is another underrated low-key Caribbean island located 17 miles east of the Puerto Rican mainland. With a sparse population, vacationers will enjoy beautiful turquoise lagoons, white powdery beaches, and lush mangrove forests without fighting the crowds.

Bird watchers love to frequent the island as it has the oldest bird sanctuaries in the United States. The spring or the early summer season is the perfect time to visit the island to watch sea turtles making their way to the island to lay eggs.

• How to reach : Take a 30-minute flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Culebra. It takes five and a half hours from the USA to San Juan.

Note: Flamenco Beach is the best and the most picturesque beach in Culebra and all the Caribbean.

Bluefields, Jamaica

Tourists who like to ditch crowded beach destinations would love Bluefields in Jamaica, as it hasn't caught the attention of the average tourist. They can still enjoy the many island activities that most go-to beach destinations promise, from deep-sea fishing to glass-bottom cruises. It is also one of the most stunning Caribbean beaches to visit this winter.

For more fun activities, visit the Bluefields Organic Fruit Farm to get a sneak peek at Jamaican history and learn about organic farming. Also, have a look at a monument near Belmont Falls that pays tribute to Peter Tosh, a reggae musician.

• How to reach : Bluefields is an hour from Montego Bay Airport. Take a bus from Montego Bay Airport to Savanna-la-Mar and a taxi from Savanna-la-Mar to Bluefields Beach.

Note: For a lively evening with food and good music, visit Rick’s Café, an hour away from Bluefields.

Although The island of Bonaire is one of the less popular island trios among Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao; however, it has scores of island activities that can make it a vacationer’s paradise. With coral reefs and sea caves, revelers will have plenty of things to occupy themselves with on the picturesque island and plunge into shore diving with Bonaire's ten best scuba sites .

Besides visiting Washington-Slagbaai National Park, visitors love to scale the tallest peak at Mt. Brandis. Try novel activities such as windsurfing and kayaking through mangroves or swimming in the Boka Kokolishi's tide pool. Vacationers can also enjoy golf at the Natural Gold Golf Course in Bonaire .

• How to reach : Book a flight from Curaçao, Aruba, or Miami to the International Airport at Bonaire.

Note: Order the bestsellers' octopus Carpaccio and red-snapper fillet at Sebastian’s, one of the best restaurants in Bonaire.