We spend one day in Culebra during our trip to Puerto Rico and this one of the places that we definitely want to return soon. Culebra is a beautiful island located in the eastern region of Puerto Rico. It is known for its pristine beaches with crystal clear waters, making it a popular destination for snorkeling, swimming, and other water activities. Flamenco Beach, which is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, is a must-visit attraction. We took a day trip to Culebra by ferry from Fajardo.
Here is how to get to Culebra and spent one day on the island.
How to get to Culebra
The ferry is one of the most popular ways to get to Culebra from Puerto Rico. The ferry operates from the town of Fajardo, which is located on the east coast of Puerto Rico. To get to Fajardo, you can take a taxi or drive your own car. Once you arrive at the ferry terminal in Fajardo, you can purchase your ferry ticket to Culebra. The ferry ride takes approximately 1 hour and costs around $5 each way. It is important to note that the ferry schedule can be unpredictable, so it is recommended to arrive early and be patient. It is also recommended to check the ferry schedule in advance and plan accordingly.
You can also get to Culebra is by taking a 30-minute flight from San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport or from the smaller Isla Grande Airport to Culebra’s Benjamin Rivera Noriega Airport.
Once you arrive in Culebra, you can take a taxi to your accommodation or explore the island on foot or by bike.
Interesting facts about Culebra
Culebra is a small island located off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, with a population of around 2,000 people.
The island is home to Flamenco Beach, which has been ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Culebra was originally inhabited by the Taíno people, and later became a haven for pirates.
During World War II, the US military used Culebra as a bombing range and testing ground for new weapons. As a result, the island has many abandoned military structures and tanks.
Tanks on Culebra Island
The tanks on Culebra Island have an interesting history. During World War II, the United States military used Culebra Island as a bombing range and training site. The tanks were used to store fuel for the military aircraft that were stationed on the island. After the war, the tanks were abandoned and left on the island. Over time, they have become a popular tourist attraction and a unique feature of the island’s landscape. The tanks are covered in colorful graffiti and provide visitors with a glimpse into the island’s past. While the tanks are not operational anymore, they serve as a reminder of the island’s military history and the impact that it had on the local community.
Our Experience: Visiting Culebra Island
Our trip to Culebra by ferry was a true adventure. The journey itself was a highlight as we passed by several smaller islands with crystal-clear waters. Once we arrived on Culebra, we hired a taxi to take us to Flamenco Beach, which was absolutely stunning.
The white sand and turquoise waters were breathtaking, and we couldn’t resist taking a dip in the warm water. After soaking up the sun for a while, we decided to walk over to Laguna del Flamenco, where we put on our snorkeling gear and explored the underwater world.
Then, we returned to Flamenco Beach and walked around the old tanks, remnants of World War II. It was surreal to see these historical artifacts still standing on the beach. We spent a bit more time on the beach before taking a taxi back to the port to catch our ferry back to Fajardo.
Best beaches on Culebra
Flamenco Beach
Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, Flamenco Beach boasts soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling along the reefs.
Playa Tamarindo
Known for its serene and secluded atmosphere, Playa Tamarindo offers calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great spot for birdwatching.
Carlos Rosario Beach
Accessible by a short hike from Flamenco Beach, Carlos Rosario Beach is a quieter alternative with excellent snorkeling opportunities. It features pristine waters and vibrant marine life.
Playa Zoni
Located on the northeastern coast, Playa Zoni is a peaceful beach known for its natural beauty and gentle waves. It’s a great spot for beachcombing and enjoying stunning views of nearby Culebrita Island.
Melones Beach
A smaller beach with calm waters, Melones Beach is favored for snorkeling and shallow swimming. It offers picturesque views and is less crowded than some of the more popular beaches on the island.
Things to do besides beaches on Culebra
Culebra National Wildlife Refuge
Explore the trails that wind through Culebra’s Wildlife Refuge to see colorful plants and animals that call the island home. The observation tower offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean and beaches, perfect for photos and taking in the island’s natural beauty.
Culebrita Island
Hop on a boat for a short trip to Culebrita Island, where you can visit the island’s historic lighthouse that guided ships in the past. Explore the tide pools, small pools of water left by the sea, which are great for spotting tiny sea creatures. If you enjoy snorkeling, there are spots around the island where you can see colorful fish and coral reefs up close.
Museo Histórico de Culebra
At the Museo Histórico de Culebra, you can learn about the island’s history through exhibits and displays. Discover how Culebra played a role in military history and explore artifacts that tell stories of the island’s past. It’s a great place to understand Culebra’s culture and heritage.
Shopping and Dining in Dewey
Wander through Dewey, the main town on Culebra, known for its relaxed atmosphere and small shops. Browse local crafts and souvenirs, such as handmade jewelry and artwork created by island residents. When you’re hungry, Dewey offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries serving fresh seafood to cozy cafes where you can enjoy a relaxing meal with ocean views.
