Isla de Culebra (Puerto Rico) : Best Caribbean Island

Isla de Culebra (Puerto Rico): Undisturbed Caribbean Bliss

Culebra, a small island municipality of Puerto Rico, is one of the Caribbean’s most treasured hidden gems. Just 17 miles east of the mainland and reachable by ferry or small plane, Culebra feels like a forgotten tropical paradise—undeveloped, peaceful, and protected from the overtourism that has affected many other destinations.

The island’s crown jewel is Flamenco Beach, often ranked among the top 10 beaches in the world. With powdery white sand, bright turquoise waters, and a scenic backdrop of forested hills, it’s postcard perfection. Old military tanks still rest on the beach—remnants of U.S. Navy training days—now covered in graffiti and serving as quirky photo ops.

Beyond Flamenco, Culebra has many other secluded coves and snorkel spots like Playa Tamarindo, Playa Carlos Rosario, and Zoni Beach. The waters around the island are part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, one of the oldest in the U.S., protecting coral reefs, sea turtles, and seabirds.

Snorkeling here is among the best in the Caribbean, especially for beginners—reefs are shallow, accessible, and teeming with colorful fish, rays, and occasionally, turtles. Boating and kayaking are also popular, and the nearby Luis Peña Nature Reserve makes for a perfect day trip.

Culebra is refreshingly underdeveloped—there are no mega-resorts or cruise ships. Accommodations range from eco-lodges and beach cottages to small hotels. Food is local, fresh, and casual, with an emphasis on seafood and Puerto Rican staples like mofongo, arroz con gandules, and tropical fruits.

If you’re looking for Caribbean natural beauty without the crowds or commercialization, Isla de Culebra delivers an experience that feels intimate, raw, and absolutely unforgettable.