Culebrita Island Guide

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Culebrita is Culebra's little sister: uninhabited, a short water taxi ride away, and about as untouched as the Caribbean gets. There are no shops, no restaurants, and no restrooms, just a lighthouse, a handful of beaches, and a lot of hermit crabs.

When we first docked near the island and got off, jumping into the clear blue water and heading to the shore was incredible. We had scuba gear, beach gear, and snacks in our hands for beach time. But what we were really excited about was visiting the other spots in Culebrita.

If you're still planning the bigger trip, start with my Culebra guide, then come back here for the day on Culebrita.


Before you go Culebrita 🛥️ CPX
Getting thereWater taxi from Culebra, ~ 25 min
BookReserve ahead, especially in peak season
FacilitiesNone: no restrooms, shops, or food
Before you leaveUse the restroom in Culebra
WearSwimsuit under your clothes. You swim to shore
BringReef-safe sunscreen, hat, hiking shoes, water, snacks
Pack outTrash bag. Leave no trace
GearChairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear depend on your operator

Getting There

Melinda, enjoys the scenic ride on a Culebrita water taxi, Caribbean Sea.

Water taxi

This is the easiest way to reach Culebrita from Culebra, and several companies run it. We booked with Gammy's Water Tours, and some operators include beach chairs, umbrellas, and sometimes snorkel gear, so check what's in your package before you decide what to bring. The ride takes about 25 minutes.

Culebrita is a small island with no flights, ferries, or docks, so a water taxi is your realistic option. Reserve it ahead, especially in peak season.

💡 Good to know

Water taxis anchor offshore because there's no dock, so you'll swim to the beach. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes, and bring a dry bag for your phone, towel, and snacks.

Your own boat

Experienced captains can rent a boat in Culebra and explore on their own schedule, but check the weather and play it safe. Compare Culebrita tours →


What to Do

Wooden signs on Culebrita Island pointing towards popular destinations: El Faro (lighthouse) and South Beach.

Hike

There are trails across the island with views of turquoise water and the neighboring islands.

Wear real shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, and mosquito spray, and watch your step, because hermit crabs are everywhere.

Relaxation essentials: Beach sandals and colorful snorkel gear resting on the white sand beach of Culebrita, Puerto Rico.

Snorkel
or scuba dive

Reefs, colorful fish, and sea turtles are all possible here. Keep your distance from the coral and the wildlife.

Pristine paradise: Crystal-clear blue waters lap the white sand shores of South Beach, Culebrita Island, Puerto Rico.

Swim

Honestly, the best part is just getting in the water. Soft white sand, warm sun, and clear turquoise water make this an easy day.


Where to Explore

Even though Culebrita is a small island, there’s still so much to do & see.
Here are some must-visit spots to add to your itinerary:

Faro Culebrita (Culebrita Lighthouse)

🏛️ Historic lighthouse | 🥾 About a mile uphill | ☀️ Wear sun protection | 📍 Fraile, Culebra 00775

The Spanish built this lighthouse in 1886 to guide ships through the Caribbean, and it is now a historical landmark. It's about a mile uphill, so wear sneakers. When we went, there was a huge hornet's nest in one section, with hornets buzzing around, so keep your distance.

💡 Good to know

Bring sunscreen and mosquito spray, and watch out for hermit crabs on the way up.

Playa Tortuga's underwater world: Clear, calm waters at Playa Tortuga, Culebrita, ideal for snorkeling adventures.

Playa Tortuga
(Turtle Beach)

🐢 Turtle nesting beach | 🤿 Calm water, good for snorkeling | 📍 Playa Tortuga

Sea turtles nest on this beach, so keep your eyes peeled and make sure to keep your distance from them as well.

Piscinas Naturales (The Baths)

Waves fill these tidal pools and make a natural, bath-like spot to relax in. Sea creatures sometimes show up in them.

South Beach

Less crowded than the others and another good spot to snorkel.

Treasure Beach

On the east side of the island, this beach was once nicknamed Trash Beach because winds and currents wash up debris. It was renamed Treasure Beach, and it's best for beachcombers who don't mind the name.


Culebrita Experiences You'll Love


FAQ

Navigating Culebrita's wonders: Wooden signs point towards popular destinations on Culebrita Island - Playa Tortuga, Treasure Beach, and The Baths.

Are Culebra and Culebrita the same island?

Nope! While their names share a resemblance, Culebra and Culebrita are distinct islands. Culebra is the larger, inhabited island, and Culebrita, its little sister of Culebra (Culebrita translates to "little snake"), is a remote and uninhabited gem. Culebrita is one of several smaller islands surrounding Culebra, but it's the most popular for day trips. 🏝️

Can I fly to Culebrita?

No, it's too small. You'll need a water taxi or boat from Culebra.

How long is the boat ride from Culebra to Culebrita?

About 25 minutes!


Culebra Travel Vlog


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01302024 10:56

Last Updated: 10.06.2026

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