Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ISLA CULEBRITA
If you need a reason to hire a water taxi, Isla Culebrita is it. This small island, just a
mile east of Playa Zoni, is part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge. With its
abandoned and decaying 1880s lighthouse, six beaches, tide pools, reefs and nesting
areas for seabirds, Isla Culebrita has changed little in the past 500 years. The north
beaches, such as the long crescent of Playa Tortuga, are popular nesting grounds for
sea turtles, and you may see these animals swimming near the reefs just offshore.
Bring a lot of water, sunscreen, a shirt and a hat if you head for Isla Culebrita, be-
cause there is little shade here. See
Click here
for details on renting and hiring boats
to reach this island.
CAYO LUIS PEÑA
Less visited than Isla Culebrita, Luis Peña is the island of peaks, rocks, forests and coves
you'll pass just a few minutes before the ferry lands you at Culebra's dock. This island is
another part of the wildlife refuge, and it has a collection of small sheltered beaches. Luis
Peña is a short kayak or water taxi trip from town; it has good beaches and snorkeling all
around the island.
Beaches
Culebra's beaches offer wild natural beauty, but little in the way of tourist facilities. The
only beach that has amenities is Playa Flamenco, and even these are limited. Be sure to
bring lots of water/snacks when venturing out and don't take risks swimming if you're on
your own. The following beaches are listed clockwise around the island from Dewey.
Punta Melones
SNORKELING BEACH
The nearest beach to town. Take the road past the clinic about a half mile north until you
reach a development on the hill to your right. Ahead on your left, you'll see the rocky
Melones point with a navigation light; to the right of the point is a stony beach. If you head
down to this beach, you will find great snorkeling at both ends. The point's name comes
from the prevalence of a species of melon cactus in this part of the island. It's a good idea
to bring shoes you can wear in the water; cacti line the seafloor. There's also not a lot of
shade on the beach, so strong sunscreen is imperative.
