Need to get away from it all? Escape to Culebra. Culebra is the smallest of the inhabited Spanish Virgin Islands, having a population of roughly two thousand. Culebra has no rivers or streams and “downtown” consists of little more that City Hall. It does have a few hotels and inns, a supermarket or two and, perhaps, a handful of restaurants. Nonetheless, visitors find themselves on this petite island. The attraction could be the beautiful beaches. Or, maybe, it is the ideal climate. Or, perhaps, it is ability to forget about problems for a while. Whatever the reason, the discovery of this jewel of an island will be a delight.
Hotels and Lodgings in Culebra, Puerto Rico
The island of Culebra may be small, but there are several inns and guesthouses where one can comfortably stay. Most are near the water and are owned by some very nice people. Tamarindo Estates, Harbour View Villas, and Palmetto Guesthouse are all close to beaches and local restaurants.
Restaurants and Dining in Culebra, Puerto Rico
Mamacita’s Restaurant, Culebra
Enjoy Caribbean dining at its best at Mamacita’s where every meal is prepared to the individual's personal taste. Mamacita’s serves rustic Caribbean Cuisine. Specialties include selected seafood, steaks, and homemade desserts. The environment is casual and the staff is friendly. $8-15
Breakfast 8:30 – 11:00 am; Lunch 11:30 – 3:00 pm; Dinner 6:00 – 9:00 pm
64 Castellar Street, 787 742 0090
Juanita Banana’s, Culebra
Trees overflowing with bananas, papayas, and passion fruit line Juanita’s walkway and local produce is grown right on the surrounding hillside. Meals are nutritious and freshly made. The ambience is warm and inviting. Everyone is invited to spend a little time. $8-30
Calle Melones, Km1, 787 742 3855
The Dinghy Dock, Culebra
Sometimes the tastebuds just want a good ol’ burger with fries. Visit Dinghy Dock. Meet the locals on the dock and have a quick bite to eat. Dinghy Dock offers American, Caribbean, and Puerto Rican food. The atmosphere is lively and informal. $3-29
Open 7:30 – 11:30 am; noon – 2:00 pm; 6:30-9:30 pm
Punta del Soldado Road, 787 742 0233
White Sands Restaurant, Culebra
White Sands serves Caribbean gourmet cuisine. Scallops wrapped in bacon, fresh lobster tail, and halibut are included on the exotic menu. One can also feast on homemade desserts. Dining overlooks the bay. $8-15
Phone: 787 742 3169
Attractions and Things to Do in Culebra, Puerto Rico
Flamenco Beach, Culebra
Flamenco is the most popular beach on the island. It has a sheltered cove and soft, white sand. Guests can swim and sunbath, have a picnic lunch, then sunbath and swim some more. It is also a great area for camping. There is very little shade here, so don’t forget the beach umbrella.
Carlos Rosario Beach, Culebra
Like to snorkel? Carlos Rosario’s crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. Guests can even walk over from Flamenco. A variety of fish can be spotted in these waters. They can even be joined for a swim.
Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, Culebra
In 1908, the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge was established by President Theodore Roosevelt. It covers over 1,400 acres of land and houses more than 50,000 seabirds of 13 different species. Bird-watchers and nature enthusiasts will appreciate its designated purpose—to protect the nesting area of the numerous seabirds and to preserve the endangered leatherback turtle and giant anole.
Road 250, 787 742 0115
Insider Tips and Activities in Culebra, Puerto Rico
Rent a Boat, Culebra
Some say you will not experience the fullness of Culebra unless a boat is rented. Exploring the island by land is nice, but renting a boat allows for some discoveries that will not take place from the shore. In fact, such islands as Luis Pena and Culebrita can only be reached by boat.
Entertainment and Nightlife in Culebra, Puerto Rico
The quiet, unspoiled island of Culebra has little to offer by way of nightlife. Perhaps one will enjoy a peaceful night stroll under the soft moonlight, listening to the rhythmic lapping of the waves. If this is not an exciting idea, heading over to Mamacita’s Caribbean Bar may fit the bill. At Mamacita's, dancing to Congo music takes place on Friday and Saturday nights from 8:30 to 11:00 p.m. Too early to turn in? Hop on over to San Juan (or one of the other nearby cities) to see what’s poppin’.
Warnings and Advisories for Culebra, Puerto Rico
The island of Culebra has very little crime. In fact, it has very little of anything. Visitors can have a relaxing time with very little to trouble.
Loraine R. Degraff - Loraine Degraff is a writer and educator of over 10 years. Although much of her writing focuses on natural health, she enjoys learning and ...
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