Culebrita Island, Culebra, Puerto Rico

Culebrita Island, or Isla Culebrita, is a small, one-mile-long island located northeast of Culebra, Puerto Rico. Part of the Culebra archipelago, this uninhabited island is only accessible by boat and offers a unique experience for visitors who appreciate natural, undeveloped surroundings. Known for its clean beaches, diverse marine life, and historical landmarks, Culebrita provides a blend of nature and history.

Beaches on Culebrita Island

Culebrita Island is home to several pristine beaches, each offering something unique for visitors. The most popular beach is Tortuga Beach, named after the sea turtles that frequently nest on its shores.

With its soft white sand and calm, clear waters, it provides the perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The waters around Tortuga Beach are renowned for their excellent visibility, allowing visitors to easily observe the rich marine life, including vibrant coral reefs and sea turtles.

Trash Beach, located in a more remote area of the island, is another notable beach on Culebrita. Despite its name, the beach is clean and less frequented by tourists, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter, more secluded experience. The surrounding landscape, with its rugged terrain and natural beauty, adds to the appeal of this tranquil beach.

South Beach, found on the southern side of Culebrita Island, is known for its serenity. It is more isolated than Tortuga Beach, offering a peaceful atmosphere and clear waters perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The soft sand and calm conditions make it an excellent choice for visitors looking to unwind in a more private setting.

In addition to these three primary beaches, Culebrita has several smaller, rocky beach areas that are less accessible but provide an opportunity for visitors to explore the island’s untouched beauty. These less-developed beaches offer a more rugged experience, perfect for those who enjoy adventure and solitude.

Natural Tidal Pools – Los Baños

One of Culebrita’s highlights is Los Baños, a series of natural tidal pools formed by rock formations. These pools have clear, calm waters and offer a unique place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

The Historic Culebrita Lighthouse

The Culebrita Lighthouse, built in 1886, is one of the oldest in the Caribbean and a significant historic landmark. Although no longer operational, its ruins provide insight into Puerto Rico’s history. Visitors can take a 30-minute hike to the lighthouse, which offers scenic views of the Caribbean Sea and nearby islands.

Activities on Culebrita Island

Though uninhabited, Culebrita offers several outdoor activities:

Snorkeling and Diving: Clear waters and coral reefs make snorkeling popular on Culebrita, with fish and sea turtles commonly spotted.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Calm waters make it possible to explore the island’s coast by kayak or paddleboard.
Beach Camping: Beach Camping: Visitors can camp on the beach to fully experience the island’s natural setting.
Wildlife Observation: The island’s diverse wildlife includes iguanas, seabirds, and nesting sea turtles.
Hiking and Trails: Trails through Culebrita’s terrain lead to scenic spots and the lighthouse ruins.

Additional activities such as kiteboarding, jet skiing, surfing, and boat excursions are available from Culebra Island, the main island nearby.