If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Rico specifically for snorkeling, Culebra Island is the place to be. This tiny, mostly undeveloped island is located just 17 miles off the coast of Puerto Rico, but it feels worlds away. It’s got miles of shoreline dotted with incredible snorkeling beaches and some of the best coral formations in the world. And with snorkel rentals and tours right from the beach, it’s easy to grab what you need and jump in the water.
Culebra Island Snorkeling Spots
Most of Culebra’s best snorkeling spots are accessible right from the beach! No need to travel by boat or kayak to get to world-class reefs teeming with fish, sea turtles, and stingrays. Of course, if it’s seclusion you’re seeking, boating to remote coves makes for an unforgettable experience.
Flamenco Beach
Known for being a top Culebra Island snorkeling spot and world-renowned attraction, Flamenco Beach features beautiful blue water and white sand. Great snorkeling is just a quick swim from the beach – most people frequent the reefs on the left side of the beach, but the right side reefs offer better visibility. Go to where the sand ends and the rocks begins and you’ll be treated to an array of corals and sea life. This spot is called Shark Cages by the locals (don’t worry, shark attacks are rare in Puerto Rico). Make the most of your visit to Culebra with a guided snorkeling tour. Smaller children can also join in on the fun!
Tamarindo Beach
This beach is part of the Luis Peña Channel Natural Reserve, the first no-take marine reserve in Puerto Rico! This area is full of sea life like turtles and stingrays. Tamarindo Beach is easily accessible by car, so you can pop over for some snorkeling whenever is most convenient. If you’re having trouble spotting the sea turtles, just peek into the sea grass – they love it there!
Carlos Rosario Beach
Also part of the Natural Reserve, Carlos Rosario Beach boasts pristine waters and some of the best snorkeling in Culebra. Starting from the Flamenco Beach parking lot, hike to the right on the trail until you pass the first beach. The next place where you come out is Carlos Rosario. Here, you can snorkel in 15-25 feet of water and enjoy a colorful array of corals and fish.
Culebrita
Culebrita is one of the tiny, uninhabited islands off the coast of Culebra. Protected coves and salt water pools are some of the natural wonders you’ll find here, as well as incredible snorkeling and scuba diving. Since you can only get there by boat, booking a snorkeling tour is a great way to plan your visit (and find the best spots to snorkel!). The underwater visibility is astonishingly clear. Be on the lookout for sea turtles and many types of fish.
These are just a few of the many snorkeling trips you can take around Culebra. Other snorkeling spots to check out are Zoni Beach, Punta de Soldado, Datiles and Cayo Luis Peña. Ask your snorkeling guide for tips on the best destinations to visit during the rest of your trip.