Culebra is a small island located off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and natural beauty. Culebra is also home to the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, which protects the island’s diverse ecosystem and wildlife.
Culebra is a Spanish word that translates to “snake” in English. The island of Culebra was given its name by Christopher Columbus, who is said to have named it after its long, narrow shape, which resembled a snake. The island is located off the east coast of Puerto Rico and is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life.
Culebra – Attractions
Some of the top attractions and things to do in Culebra include:
- Flamenco Beach – This beautiful beach is considered one of the best in the world and is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand.
- Culebrita Island – This small island is located just off the coast of Culebra and is accessible by boat. It is home to a lighthouse and several secluded beaches.
- Tamarindo Beach – This beach is known for its calm waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Culebra National Wildlife Refuge – This protected area covers most of the island and is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, seabirds, and iguanas.
- Playa Zoni – This beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the sea and nearby islands.
- Museo Histórico de Culebra – This museum showcases the island’s history and culture, including its indigenous Taino roots and Spanish colonial heritage.
- Kayaking and snorkeling tours – There are several companies that offer kayaking and snorkeling tours around the island, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty and underwater world.
Beaches in Culebra worth visiting
Culebra is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here are some of the top beaches to visit in Culebra:
- Flamenco Beach: Flamenco Beach is often ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with its soft white sand and turquoise waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and food stands.
- Tamarindo Beach: Tamarindo Beach is a smaller beach that’s perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The coral reefs off the shore provide a great opportunity to see colorful fish and other marine life.
- Zoni Beach: Zoni Beach is a secluded beach with calm waters and soft white sand. It’s a great spot for sunbathing and swimming, and there are often sea turtles and other marine life in the area.
- Carlos Rosario Beach: Carlos Rosario Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. The coral reefs off the shore are home to a variety of fish and other marine life, and the water is clear and calm.
- Resaca Beach: Resaca Beach is a quiet, secluded beach that’s perfect for a relaxing day on the sand. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but the peaceful surroundings and beautiful views make it well worth the trip.
- Playa Punta Soldado: This small beach is a bit rocky, but it’s a great spot for snorkeling and swimming. The water is crystal clear and the beach offers stunning views of the island and the ocean.
How to reach Culebra
Culebra can be reached by air or sea.
By air: The easiest way to reach Culebra is by flying into the Benjamin Rivera Noriega Airport (CPX) on the island. There are several daily flights from San Juan, Puerto Rico on Cape Air and Vieques Air Link, which are the two airlines that serve Culebra.
By sea: Another option is to take a ferry from the town of Fajardo on the east coast of Puerto Rico. The ferry ride takes about an hour and costs significantly less than flying. However, the ferry schedule can be unreliable and subject to cancellation due to weather conditions, so it’s important to check the schedule in advance and plan accordingly.
Once you arrive on the island, the best way to get around is by rental car or golf cart, as there are few public transportation options.
Train station near Culebra
There is no train station on Culebra Island, as it is a small island with no railway system. Culebra is accessible only by air or sea, with flights and ferries connecting the island to the mainland of Puerto Rico. Visitors to Culebra typically arrive by flying into the Benjamin Rivera Noriega Airport (CPX) on the island, or taking a ferry from Fajardo on the east coast of Puerto Rico. Once on the island, the best way to get around is by rental car or golf cart.
Culebra Restaurant Options
Culebra offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront cafes to upscale restaurants. Some popular options for food and drinks on the island include:
- Mamacitas Restaurant & Bar – This casual spot in the heart of downtown Culebra offers a wide range of dishes, including seafood, burgers, and Tex-Mex favorites. It’s also known for its extensive cocktail menu and live music on weekends.
- Zaco’s Tacos – This popular spot offers authentic Mexican cuisine, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, as well as margaritas and other specialty cocktails.
- Heather’s Pizzeria – This family-owned pizzeria is a local favorite for its thin-crust pizzas and Italian dishes, as well as its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere.
- El Eden – This upscale restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients. It’s located on a hill overlooking the bay and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Dinghy Dock – This casual spot offers waterfront dining with a focus on fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes. It’s located at the Marina and is a great spot to grab a cold drink and watch the boats come and go.
- Bahia Marina – This popular restaurant and bar offers a lively atmosphere and a range of dishes, including fresh seafood, burgers, and salads. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy the view of the bay.
There are also several small cafes, food trucks, and grocery stores on the island where visitors can grab snacks, sandwiches, and other quick bites.
Cuelbra Puerto Rico – Places to Stay
Culebra offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious villas. Some popular places to stay on the island include:
- Club Seabourne – This upscale boutique hotel is located on a hilltop overlooking the bay and offers a range of rooms, suites, and villas, as well as a pool, restaurant, and spa.
- Tamarindo Estates – This collection of apartments and villas is located in a secluded area of the island and offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly studios to spacious four-bedroom villas.
- Casa Robinson – This guesthouse is located in the heart of downtown Culebra and offers a range of budget-friendly rooms, as well as a communal kitchen and outdoor seating area.
- Villa Flamenco Beach – This oceanfront villa is located just steps from Flamenco Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the island. It features a range of amenities, including a pool, outdoor seating area, and fully equipped kitchen.
- Culebra Island Villas – This collection of villas and apartments is located on a hill overlooking the bay and offers a range of accommodations, from one-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom villas.
- Mamacitas Guesthouse – This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in the heart of downtown Culebra and offers a range of rooms, as well as a restaurant and bar on-site.
There are also several campgrounds on the island for visitors who prefer to sleep under the stars.
Culebra Day Trip
Culebra is a small island with a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, and many visitors find that two or three days is enough time to experience everything the island has to offer. However, for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the island’s beauty and culture, a longer stay may be ideal.
If you’re short on time or want to visit Culebra as a day trip, it’s possible to see many of the island’s main attractions in a single day. However, keep in mind that the ferry from Fajardo to Culebra can be unpredictable and may experience delays or cancellations due to weather conditions, so it’s important to plan ahead and be flexible with your schedule.
If you’re staying on the main island of Puerto Rico, you can also take a guided day trip to Culebra that includes round-trip transportation, a snorkeling excursion, and a visit to Flamenco Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. This can be a great way to experience the best of Culebra in a single day if you don’t have the time or desire to spend multiple days on the island.
How many days in Culebra is enough?
The length of time you should spend in Culebra depends on your interests and how much time you have available. Culebra is a small island with a laid-back atmosphere, so if you’re looking to relax and unwind, you might consider spending three to five days on the island.
During this time, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the island’s beautiful beaches, including Flamenco Beach, which is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world. You can also take a snorkeling excursion to see the island’s colorful marine life, explore the local cuisine, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.
If you’re short on time, you can still get a taste of Culebra by spending one or two days on the island. However, keep in mind that the ferry to and from the island can be unpredictable and may experience delays or cancellations due to weather conditions, so it’s important to plan ahead and be flexible with your schedule.
Culebra Ferry – Schedule
Culebra is an island located off the east coast of Puerto Rico, and one of the best ways to get there is by ferry. Here’s what you need to know about taking the Culebra ferry:
- Schedules: The ferry operates daily between Fajardo, Puerto Rico and Culebra, with multiple trips each day. The ferry schedule can change frequently, so it’s important to check the schedule in advance to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal in Fajardo, and they are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak travel times, to ensure you get a ticket for your preferred departure time. The cost of the ticket is relatively inexpensive, but it may vary depending on the season and demand.
- Duration: The ferry ride takes approximately one hour each way, depending on the sea conditions. The trip can be a bit bumpy at times, so it’s recommended to bring any necessary motion sickness medication if needed.
- Parking: There is a parking lot located at the ferry terminal in Fajardo, but it can fill up quickly during peak travel times. It’s recommended to arrive early and allow extra time for parking.
- Luggage: Each passenger is allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one checked bag on the ferry. It’s recommended to pack lightly, as the ferry can get crowded and there may be limited space for luggage.
Taking the Culebra ferry is a great way to get to the island and explore all that it has to offer. Just be sure to check the schedule in advance, arrive early, and pack light to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Culebra, Puerto Rico – Hotels worth staying
Culebra is a beautiful island located in Puerto Rico, and it offers a variety of hotels and accommodations for visitors. Here are some of the hotels available in Culebra:
- Club Seabourne: This boutique hotel offers 12 spacious rooms and suites, as well as a private villa with its own pool. The hotel is located on a hillside overlooking Fulladoza Bay, and it features a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.
- Villa Boheme: This cozy hotel offers six rooms and one suite, all decorated in a unique bohemian style. The hotel is located in the town of Dewey, just a short walk from the beach, restaurants, and shops.
- Costa Bonita Beach Resort: This beachfront resort offers a range of accommodations, including rooms, suites, and villas. The resort features a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and access to a private beach.
- Tamarindo Estates Beach Apartments: This hotel offers 12 apartments and suites, all with ocean views and easy access to the beach. The apartments feature fully equipped kitchens, living rooms, and private terraces.
- Mamacitas Guest House: This guest house offers a range of accommodations, from private rooms to a full apartment. The property features a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, and it’s located in the heart of Dewey, just a short walk from the beach.
- Palmetto Guesthouse: This charming guest house offers eight rooms and suites, all decorated in a tropical style. The property features a swimming pool, outdoor lounge, and a shared kitchen for guests to use.
Visitors to Culebra have a variety of hotels and accommodations to choose from, ranging from boutique hotels to beachfront resorts to charming guest houses. The island’s small size means that all of these hotels are located close to the beach and other attractions, making it easy for visitors to explore and enjoy all that Culebra has to offer.
How is the weather in Culebra?
Culebra is an island located in the eastern region of Puerto Rico and is known for its beautiful beaches and tropical climate. The weather in Culebra is warm and humid throughout the year, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-30°C). Here is a breakdown of the different seasons and weather patterns in Culebra:
- Winter (December to February): During the winter months, temperatures in Culebra are generally mild, with highs in the mid to upper 70s Fahrenheit (around 24°C) and lows in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 18°C). This is the dry season in Culebra, with less rainfall than other times of the year.
- Spring (March to May): In the spring, temperatures in Culebra begin to rise, with highs in the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 29°C) and lows in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24°C). This is also a relatively dry season, although there may be occasional showers.
- Summer (June to August): The summer months in Culebra are the hottest and most humid, with highs in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (around 30°C) and lows in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24°C). This is also the rainy season, with frequent showers and thunderstorms, often in the afternoon or evening.
- Fall (September to November): In the fall, temperatures in Culebra begin to cool down slightly, with highs in the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 29°C) and lows in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24°C). This is still a relatively wet season, with occasional rain and thunderstorms.
Culebra’s tropical climate makes it a great destination for visitors who enjoy warm weather and sunshine year-round. However, visitors should also be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially during the summer and fall months.
Best time to visit Culebra
The best time to visit Culebra, Puerto Rico, largely depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Here are some factors to consider when planning your visit:
- Weather: Culebra has a warm tropical climate year-round, but the best weather is generally during the winter months (December to February) when the temperatures are milder and the rainfall is lower. However, if you don’t mind a bit of rain, the summer and fall months (June to November) can also be a good time to visit, with lush greenery and fewer crowds.
- Activities: The best time to visit Culebra also depends on what you want to do during your trip. If you’re interested in snorkeling or diving, the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the water is warmest and the visibility is best. If you’re more interested in hiking or exploring the island’s natural beauty, the winter months (December to February) offer milder temperatures and less humidity.
- Crowds: Culebra can get quite crowded during peak travel seasons, such as Christmas and New Year’s, as well as during the summer months when many families are on vacation. If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), when the weather is still good but there are fewer tourists.
Overall, the best time to visit Culebra largely depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. No matter when you visit, however, you’re sure to find beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back island atmosphere that make Culebra a great destination year-round.
Culebra – FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about Culebra:
- What is the best time of year to visit Culebra? The best time to visit Culebra is between mid-December and mid-April, when the weather is warm and dry with little to no rainfall. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year on the island, so you can expect larger crowds and higher prices.
- What is the best way to get to Culebra? The best way to get to Culebra is by ferry from Fajardo, which is located on the east coast of Puerto Rico. The ferry ride takes about an hour and costs around $5 per person. Alternatively, you can take a small plane from San Juan or Fajardo to Culebra’s airport.
- What are the best beaches in Culebra? Culebra is home to several stunning beaches, including Flamenco Beach, which is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world. Other popular beaches on the island include Zoni Beach, Tamarindo Beach, and Melones Beach.
- What is there to do in Culebra? In addition to its beautiful beaches, Culebra offers a range of activities and attractions, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. You can also explore the island’s history and culture at the Culebra Museum or take a guided tour of the island’s many natural wonders.
- What is the local cuisine like in Culebra? Culebra’s cuisine is influenced by its Caribbean location and features a variety of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local herbs and spices. Popular dishes include ceviche, grilled fish, and mofongo, a Puerto Rican dish made from mashed plantains and a variety of meats and seafood.