Flamenco Beach, Culebra
Playa Flamenco
A horseshoe-shaped bay of white sand and clear shallow water, often ranked among the best beaches in the US and the Caribbean. Two graffiti-covered old tanks rest on the sand at one end.
Playa Flamenco lies on the north shore of Culebra. The curved bay is about 1.6 km long, with fine white sand and water that shades from pale to deep blue, sheltered by reefs. The sea is usually calm, which suits swimming and snorkeling. At the western end of the beach sit two rusting M4 Sherman tanks, left behind when the US Navy used the area as a firing range before 1975. They are now covered in graffiti and have become a popular photo spot. The beach has changing rooms, food stalls, and a campground (reservations required). To get to Culebra, take a boat of 45–90 minutes from the Ceiba ferry terminal. Fares are cheap but often sell out, so buy tickets online in advance. You can also fly from San Juan or Ceiba on a small plane in about 30 minutes. On the island, take a taxi or rent a golf cart to reach the beach. Nearby Tamarindo and Carlos Rosario beaches are even better for snorkeling, and sea turtles can be spotted there. The island has few shops, so bring plenty of cash and drinking water.
Opening hours
Open all day (campsite by reservation)
Nearby sights
- Carlos Rosario Beach
- Tamarindo Beach
- Dewey (Culebra Town)
- Zoni Beach
- Culebrita Island & Lighthouse
- Fortín Conde de Mirasol
- La Chiva Beach (Blue Beach)
- Caracas Beach (Red Beach)