The island of Culebra, (English: Snake), is a small island off the east coast of Puerto Rico. It is only 10 kilometers long and three kilometers wide and has a population only of about 2200 inhabitants. But it doesn’t prohibit the island to be one of the most known touristic locations. People from all over the world come here to enjoy Culebra snorkeling.
Culebra is celebrated for its beauty, nature, and history. It is located in Puerto Rico’s Bay of Fajardo with coral reefs extending out from the island on either side.
There are several small beaches on the east side of Culebra that are popular tourist spots, the most known is Flamenco Beach snorkeling.
Top 5 Culebra Beaches
Culebra offers miles of beaches and coves, excellent snorkeling, fishing, and diving opportunities, and many other attractions.
The sand of Culebra beach is very fine and soft. It is not as coarse as some other beaches in the Caribbean. The water at Culebra Beach is usually calm and clear, but there are times when it can get rough during high tide. The water at this beach ranges from warm to cold based on the time of year and weather conditions.
1) The sand at Culebra Beach is fine and soft like sugar
2) Culebra Beach has a coral reef unlike any other in the Caribbean
3) The water at Culebra Beach can be calm or rough depending on the time of year and weather conditions. It is really clear, that is a rarity in the Caribbean, with 3 different watercolor options depending on what you are looking for: blue, green, and turquoise.
Flamenco Beach
Flamenco Beach is a beautiful beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico.
It is a popular spot because of the powdery white sand, the crystal clear water, and the fish are abundant. At this beach, there is a restaurant and bar located right on the beach. Many different types of fish live in the water like Angelfish, Butterflyfish, Parrotfish, and more! Combining crystal and calm waters that make the perfect location for snorkeling Flamenco Beach.
Though there may be better spots different from Culebra snorkeling. Many people prefer to swim by the Flamenco reef. One location you don’t want to miss is the left side of the coastline (near the tank) and another is on the opposite side at a place called “Muellecito” and that’s. There are lots of natural spots where you can explore corals and an amazing variety of bright fish. Still, snorkeling Flamenco Beach demands to be careful not to touch anything as the coral is sensitive & fragile!
Zoni Beach
Zoni Beach is one of the hidden gems on the northeastern coast of Culebra.
Its beauty is comparable to Flamenco beach because it’s as beautiful as any other beach in the area. Flamenco is a Culebra beach that differs from Zoni in the sense that it has amenities, whereas Zoni does not. It’s a lot less populated than Flamenco and considered a more peaceful environment.
Zoni Beach is deep. There are some waves during the winter, but that shouldn’t deter you from coming over.
The Beach offers different activities for people of all interests; you can enjoy sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, and more. If you’re visiting during April and June, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for their nesting sites. Other than that, please be careful when exploring the beach at Zoni so as not to disturb them.
Tamarindo Beach
If you’re a person who loves to snorkel, scuba dive, or kayak, then Tamarindo Beach is the perfect place for you to visit!
Not only does it have an amazing view of Cayo Luis Pena and its orientation towards the West, but it also provides magical sunsets. Tamarindo’s sand is a mixture of white sand and coral rock that goes on for more than a mile. It has plenty of shaded parts and picnic tables perfect for an afternoon with your friends & family.
Unlike the other beaches in Culebra, Tamarindo Beach does not offer restrooms, parking, or food shacks. Pack a lunch before you go to enjoy your day at the beach!
Playa punta soldado Beach
Punta Soldado is a secluded beach that’s great for amateur divers and snorkellers. The calm, clear water and the reefs (that almost creep into the shore) make it a thriving habitat for an array of underwater species that love its natural environment. Punta Soldado beach is best known for its marvelous shore diving and offers a lovely, relaxing environment for those who want to work on their tan. You can bring your beach chair and enjoy the ocean view while listening to the waves. The water here is shallow, so you don’t need to be an experienced swimmer. However, it’s a bit of a walk from the shore to the water, so make sure kids wear those flippers before they take the plunge!
Culebrita Beach
Culebrita Beach is great. Away from the tourist attractions, it’s typical island life without all the resorts and mass tourism. The trade-off? You might have to deal with bugs & water supply issues, but you’ll get some one-of-a-kind experiences!
If you’re looking for glamour rest, Culebrita Beach is not your option. If you want to be pampered by your in-resort guest services, small resort amenities; pool areas then this is not the place for you.
If you’re looking for a small getaway with great beaches (best found with some hiking), unbeatable views, and immersive diving/s, Culebrita Beach is your choice.
How to Culebra Snorkeling
The best way to explore Culebra is by snorkeling. The water is warm, the visibility is great and you can see fish and other aquatic life in their natural environment.
Join Kayaking Puerto Rico tours and enjoy full-day Culebra and Flamenco Beach snorkeling from San Juan.
