Culebra, Puerto Rico

(koo-LAI-brah)

Located just 17 miles (27 km) east of the mainland, Culebra or Isla Chiquita—feels like stepping back in time to the old Caribbean.

This tiny island municipality is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. Home to the internationally acclaimed Flamenco Beach and the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, it is a haven for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Here, snorkelers can glide through spectacular coral reefs that are considered among the best in the Caribbean region, nodding good-day to an astounding variety of sea creatures. If you are seeking a genuinely unspoiled Caribbean treasure with a small-scale, authentic tourism vibe, take it from a local: Culebra is exactly where you need to be.

Culebra is also known as "Ultima Virgen" (last virgin) due to its position at the end of the Virgin Islands archipelago.

Why Visit Culebra?

Culebra offers an unforgettable island escape with some of the Caribbean's most spectacular beaches and marine ecosystems. Whether you're relaxing on the white sands of Flamenco Beach, snorkeling with sea turtles at Tamarindo Beach, or exploring protected coral reefs, Culebra is the perfect destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and tranquility.

Why I love Culebra?

Culebra reminds me that Puerto Rico isn't just one destination—it's many different islands, each with its own personality. Every time I visit, I'm struck by how incredibly clear the water is and how easy it is to disconnect from the busy pace of everyday life.

Before You Go

I've been sharing Puerto Rico with visitors for more than 30 years. My biggest piece of advice for Culebra is simple: don't try to see everything. Spend more time in fewer places. Some of my best memories on the island aren't from checking attractions off a list—they're from sitting on the beach listening to the waves.

Top Attractions in Culebra

Nature & Wildlife

Culebra National Wildlife Refuge

Established in on February 27, 1909, by US President Theodore Roosevelt. The Culebra National Wildlife Refuge is one of the oldest refuges in the system. The refuge preserves thousands of acres of beaches, forests, mangroves, coral reefs, and offshore cays. It provides habitat for large colonies of sea birds (with approx. 85 species), particularly terns, red-billed tropic birds and boobies, nesting sea turtles of nesting sea turtles, and numerous marine species.

The island (about 20%) and the surrounding 23 islets including Culebrita are protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, making the islands one of only two nesting sites for giant sea turtles in the U.S. The mangroves within the refuge are a unique habitat which is vital for coastal wildlife. It is known that this area is a favorite roosting site for the endangered brown pelican.

Culebrita Island

Culebrita is the largest cay near Culebra. Located on the north side, Culebrita's beach is one the finest examples of white sand and incredible clear waters.

You can visit the surrounding cays, but permits are required and available from the Fish and Wildlife Service, Box 510, Boquerón, PR 00622. Visits are administered by Culebra National Wildlife Refuge and regulated to insure protection of the rich and diverse resources. For information write to: Refuge Manager, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, General Delivery - Lower Camp Culebra, Puerto Rico 00775.

Culebrita Lighthouse

Built in 1886, the Culebrita Lighthouse was one of the oldest lighthouses in the Caribbean. Although no longer operational, its ruins offer spectacular panoramic views.

Luis Peña

This is the second largest cay near to Culebra. Many sandy beaches can be found on this cay, Luis Peña beach included, as well as wonderful coral reef located on the southwest side, perfect for snorkeling.

Beaches

Flamenco Beach

Frequently ranked among the world's best beaches, Flamenco Beach is famous for its powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, colorful fish, and iconic military tanks left from the island's former Navy training days. Camping is available at Flamenco Beach on the north shore.

Tamarindo Beach

One of Puerto Rico's best snorkeling beaches, Tamarindo Beach is known for its sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and calm waters.

Carlos Rosario Beach

Accessible by hiking trail from Flamenco Beach, Carlos Rosario offers exceptional snorkeling and some of the healthiest coral reefs in Puerto Rico.

Melones Beach

A quiet beach close to Dewey that offers excellent snorkeling and easy access for visitors looking to avoid larger crowds.

Plan your Visit

Although Culebra feels worlds away from the mainland, it's easily reached by ferry or a short flight. Once on the island, visitors can explore some of Puerto Rico's most spectacular beaches, protected nature reserves, and crystal-clear waters.

Featured Tours

Nature & Resources

Geography

Culebra is located 27 km (17 miles) east of Puerto Rico and 19 km (12 miles) west to Saint Thomas, its dimensions are about 11 km (7 miles) long and 5 km (3.5 miles) wide. Culebra consist of the main island and twenty-three smaller islands that lie off its coast.

Culebra has sparse, thin soils and no permanent rivers or streams; water is obtained from a desalinization plant. Grazing and fishing are the principal activities of its few inhabitants.

The capital is Dewey, which contains most of the archipelagoes 2000 souls. The municipality includes all surrounding islets: Norte, Ballena, Geniquí, Tiburń, Sombrero, Matojo, Colorado, Culebrita, Luis Peña (named after its second owner), Las Hermanas, El Mono, Lobo, Lobito, La Pela, La Pelita, Del Agua, Yerba, Raton, Pirata, Verde, Botijuela, Alcarraza, Los Gemelos, and Piedra Stevens.

Neighborhoods & Barrios

Culebra consists of six barrios (wards or districts), each contributing to the island's unique blend of coastal communities, protected natural areas, and spectacular beaches. Together, they preserve the peaceful character that makes Culebra one of Puerto Rico's most treasured island destinations.

• Dewey
• Flamenco
• Fraile
• Playa Sardinas 1
• Playa Sardinas 2
• San Isidro

Climate

Culebra enjoys year-round summer temperatures, an average annual temperature of 80.76°F (27.09°C). On average, the warmest month is September, and the coolest month is March.

Culebra averages 6.37 inches (162 mm) of rain per year. November is the average wettest month.

CULEBRA WEATHER

10 Day Forecast from weather.com

Medical Services

Despite its size, Culebra has a health clinic with a pharmacy and a hospital with 24-hour emergency room.

Where to Stay

Local Flavors & Festivities

Where to Eat

Festivals and Events

• Festival del Name - West
  
• Fiesta de Artesania - November
  
• Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Sra. del Carmen - July
  Every year, Culebra celebrates a patron saint festival. The festivities include dances, food, parades and religious processions. (787) 742-3521
• Torneo de Pesca - March
  

Moments in History

City Symbols

Flag

The Culebra flag consists of five vertical stripes, three alternate yellow and two green ones. The yellow central stripe has the map of Culebra in green.

Coat of Arms

The field is tierced in three, in the Spanish manner, vert, argent, or. The cross and the episcopal crozier symbolize Bishop San Ildefonso, because originally the island was called San Ildefonso de la Culebra. The crowned serpent (culebra means serpent) ondoyant in pale is the emblem of its name. The mailed arm refers to the coat of the Escudero family, first settlers of the island. The laurel cross refers to the civic triumph reached when Culebra obtained the evacuation of the United States Navy. The crest is a coronet bearing two masts, their sails filled by the wind.

Anthem

The anthem was written by Edgardo Romero. The title is Culebra Isla preciosa...

Human & Capital Resources

Economy

Tourism is the primary driver of Culebra's economy, supported by hospitality, restaurants, boating, fishing, retail, and marine recreation. The island's protected beaches, coral reefs, and wildlife refuge attract visitors from around the world, making eco-tourism central to its economic development.

Education

There are 3 public schools in Culebra, education is handled by the Puerto Rico Department of Education.

Map References

Coordinates: 18.3169° N, 65.2900° W

ZIP Code: 775

Driving Distance from San Juan: 29.1 miles

Driving Time: 52 minutes to Fajardo, take a Ferry

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Culebra located?
Culebra is a small island municipality located about 17 miles (27 km) east of mainland Puerto Rico, between the main island and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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How do you get to Culebra?
You can reach Culebra by ferry from Ceiba or by a short 30-minute flight from San Juan or Ceiba.

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What is Culebra known for?
Culebra is famous for Flamenco Beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, world-class snorkeling, vibrant coral reefs, and the protected Culebra National Wildlife Refuge.

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Why is Flamenco Beach famous?
Flamenco Beach is consistently ranked among the world's best beaches for its powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, excellent swimming, and the iconic military tanks painted with colorful graffiti.

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What are the best beaches in Culebra?
Popular beaches include Flamenco Beach, Carlos Rosario Beach, Tamarindo Beach, Zoni Beach, Melones Beach, and Punta Soldado Beach.

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Can you snorkel with sea turtles in Culebra?
Yes. Tamarindo Beach is one of Puerto Rico's best places to snorkel with green sea turtles, tropical fish, and colorful coral reefs.

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Can you visit Culebrita Island?
Yes. Culebrita is accessible by boat or water taxi and is known for Tortuga Beach, its historic lighthouse ruins, and excellent snorkeling.

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Do you need a golf cart or rental car?
Yes. Golf carts, Jeeps, and rental vehicles are the most convenient ways to explore Culebra's beaches, nature trails, and attractions.

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How far is Culebra from San Juan?
Culebra is about 20 miles (32 km) from San Juan by air and can be reached in approximately 30 minutes by plane or by ferry from Ceiba after driving about 1 hour from San Juan.

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When is the best time to visit Culebra?
Culebra is a year-round destination, but December through April offers the most pleasant weather for beach activities, snorkeling, diving, and boating.

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Other Resources

• Culebra Map by TravelMaps.com
• Culebra and Vieques Accommodations and Dining Map (Frommer's Puerto Rico, 5th Edition)