Puerto rico playa culebra: Spend the Day at Flamenco Beach on Culebra

Best Things to Do in Culebra Puerto Rico

With several pristine locations, colorful marine life, diamond-dust sand, and beautiful beaches, Culebra is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit. Although Culebra is only 10 square miles in size, it is still home to several native plants, beautiful beaches, magical islands, and mangrove forests.

The area was a naval base for the US army until 1975. In fact, visitors can still experience some of the base’s remains along with the town. It is surrounded by at least 20 cays and underwater landscapes. More than 20% of this popular destination has been a National Wildlife Refuge for endangered seabirds and exotic sea turtles for more than 100 years now.

If you are planning to visit Culebra, keep on reading to discover things you can do.

Experience the Beauty of the Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach is probably one of the most visited beaches in Puerto Rico. The beach has been ranked as one of the most visited beaches in the world. Thousands of beach lovers flock to Flamenco Beach every year to experience the calm waves and varying shades of blue.

The soft white sand in Flamenco Beach is another reason why thousands visit this beach every year. This is not to mention the famous rusty military tank at the beach. You can swim in the turquoise waters, snorkel, enjoy the sun, or read a book on this beach. Don’t forget to take iconic pictures before leaving.

Experience Isla Culebrita

Isla Culebrita is a small island in Culebra Puerto Rico. It is one of the sections of the National Wildlife Refuge. The area is home to around six small beaches, including the famous Playa Tortuga. The only artificial structure you will find in Isla Culebrita is an old lighthouse.

The good news is that Isla Culebrita is only a taxi ride away from Culebra.

Learn About Culebra’s History and Culture

If you still have time, you can experience the history of Culebra as you have never before. Start by visiting the naval base to discover more about the formation of this small island. You can also visit the Museo Historico de Culebra to learn more about the presence of the military in this small area.

See the Mangrove Forest

Locals in the area have been restoring mangroves along the Culebra shoreline to protect the natural ecosystem. Visiting the mangrove forest in Culebra will give you an insight into the critical role of mangroves in promoting marine and coastal ecosystems for endangered seabirds and endangered sea turtles.

While there, make sure not to disturb the wildlife in the mangrove forest.

Discover More About the Native Plants

Culebra is home to beautiful native plants, thanks to its rare semi-arid and tropical environment. These native plants are part of Culebra’s beauty. Remember to avoid the peperomia wheeleri and cactus leptocereus grantianus when visiting the area. You don’t want to harm these endangered plants.

Final Thoughts

Indeed, Culebra is one of the top tourist destinations to visit this year. It has several peaceful beaches, rich history, magnificent islands, and friendly locals. Moreover, visitors can taste the famous Puerto Rican cuisine when visiting Culebra.

Two Days in Culebra, Puerto Rico ⋆ The Dining Traveler

Two Days in Culebra: Flamenco Beach

One of my favorite places in Puerto Rico is Culebra. This tiny island off the east coast of Puerto Rico is truly a tropical gem. I recall my first time experiencing the island thirteen years ago. I was on a friend’s boat and we were anchored off the coast of the island. We didn’t get on shore that time but it awoke in me the curiosity to return. A few years ago, I finally set foot in the island and I did not want to leave. Here’s how to spend two days in Culebra:

Two Days in Culebra: Tamarindo Beach

Getting There

Flights from San Juan to Culebra are short and relatively affordable. Bonus: the view from above!  From San Juan, you can take a flight from Isla Grande via airlines such a Vieques Air Link, Cape Air, and Air Flamenco. The drive from SJU Airport (main San Juan Airport) is give or take 30 Minutes. You can also fly from Ceiba on the east coast of the island. There’s a big parking lot where you can leave you car. The cheapest way is to take the ferry from the Fajardo post. There’s also a parking lot where you can leave you car overnight. If you’re lucky and have a friend with a boat, take the boat! The views are amazing!

Two Days in Culebra: Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Culebra

The island is the place one goes to disconnect. Even two days in Culebra will reset you! There are no big resorts, but rather small guesthouses, rental villas, and small boutique hotels. A renowned property on island is Club Seabourne, a small, local-owned boutique hotel. I have friends who have been going to Club Seabourne for years and love the property. During my visits, I’ve stayed at rental apartments and guesthouses. Don’t worry if you’re not in the lap of luxury… you’ll spend most of your time at the beach!

Two Days in Culebra: Must go to Flamenco Beach

Playa Flamenco

Culebra means snake in Spanish. This long, small, narrow island is home to one of the most revered beaches in the world: Playa Flamenco. Yes, believe the hype. Playa Flamenco is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters and laid back vibes.  Not only is the beach picturesque, but the facilities are also convenient for guests of all ages.  There’s ample parking, changing rooms, and kiosks offering Puerto Rican empanadas filled with meat or seafood.  My cousin and other friends love to camp there. More camping info here.

Snorkeling at Playa Tamarindo

Playa Tamarindo

Although Culebra is mainly known for Playa Flamenco, I recommend you visit the other beaches on the island. Close to Flamenco, there is Playa Tamarindo. This quiet beach is known for snorkeling. There, you can catch sea turtles peacefully swimming along the ocean. The beach area is quite small, but it’s beautifully quiet and peaceful.

Two Days in Culebra: Zoni Beacn

Playa Zoni

If you want to escape to a secluded beach, head to Playa Zoni. I recommend that if you go to Culebra, you rent a jeep as it gives you access to more of the island. Playa Zoni is quite remote. Getting there is quite the adventure. The roads seem to get narrower and narrower until you reach the beach area. The several times I’ve been, the most I’ve seen are a dozen or so beachgoers. The water is a bit more choppy than Playa Flamenco, but the views are just as sweet.

Two Days in Culebra Must Do: Sunset at Melones Beach

Playa Melones

A must when spending two days in Culebra is taking in a beautiful sunset. One of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve witnessed in Puerto Rico was at Playa Melones. This small beach offers calm waters and a picturesque sunset. There’s also a small area with picnic tables. Perfect to stage a small picnic at sunset.

Where to Eat: Zacos Tacos

Where to Eat

The dining options are a bit limited in Culebra.