Culebra

Culebra is a small Caribbean island, mostly covered in nature preserve that lies about 20 miles east of Puerto Rico and 12 miles west of Saint Thomas. Culebra is administered as a municipality of Puerto Rico.

An introduction to Culebra

Culebra is 5 miles by 7 miles, without streams. It may have been populated by Caribs before the Spanish conquest, but was then empty until the end of the 19th Century. It was used as a training bombing range by the U.S. Navy for much of the 20th Century. Development has been recent and slow, and the island is still mostly woodlands. This makes it a spectacular backcountry destination, away from the crowds and the mega-resorts.

How to travel to Culebra

By ferry

Beach at Culebra Island, Puerto Rico - Flamenco Beach

You can reach Culebra via daily ferry from Fajardo or on week days from Vieques. Maritime Transport Authority website for schedule and price information. Price is $2.25/adult and $1/child for the ferry ride and it takes about one to one and a half hours from Fajardo. However, reaching Fajardo from San Juan by taxi costs $80-100. If you are two people or more traveling the taxi from San Juan to Fajardo might be the better option over flying.

For a budget traveler, you may also want to consider taking one of the local buses from San Juan to Fajardo. Prices may be negotiated if you speak (Spanish), and $10-$20 per person should cover the two to three hour ride. This highway tends to get busy. Check what time the last ferry leaves Fajardo. The buses are vans that depart sporadically, do not have air conditioning, and primarily serve local residents. Tourists may have difficulty persuading taxi drivers that they want to go to the bus station.

It is important to note that although the ferry is a affordable option it is extremely busy during the high season (holidays and summer months). During these times the ferry will be extremely hard to use as people camp out as early as 4 in the morning for tickets. This would be a good time to consider flying in.

Fly to Culebra

You can also reach Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport GPS: 18.313333,-65.304444 (IATA Flight Code: CPX) via daily airplane service from San Juan, Fajardo, Vieques or nearby Saint Thomas. This option is the best and easiest way to travel, particularly for a single traveler. Air Flamenco and Vieques Air Link have a service that leaves from Isla Grande Airport to Culebra. San Juan Isla Grande airport(SIG) is roughly a $25 15 minutes cab ride from San Juan International airport. These are small 8 passenger planes. The plane ride may cost $60 one way and take 35 minutes. There are also flights leaving directly from San Juan International Airport, but they are much more expensive ($115+).

Get Around

GPS 18.3146|-65.2864

There is only one town on the island: Culebra Pueblo, also called Dewey. The sights are several miles away, so walking is not a practical option.

There are 3 primary modes of transportation on Culebra: publicos, rental cars or golf carts, and bicycles.

Publicos

Publicos are shared taxis/shuttles that offer transportation to and from anywhere on the island including the airport, Flamenco Beach and the ferry terminal. The cost for most rides is $3 one-way or $5 round trip.

Publicos on Culebra include:

• Raul Transportation: +1 787-358-4816 or +1 787-448-6630
• Miguelito: +1 787-473-2594 or +1 787-633-6020
• Xavier: +1 787-463-0475
• Nata: +1 787-969-2863
• Nelson: +1 787-972-0928
• Adriano: +1 787-590-1375

Rental Cars, Golf Carts, and Scooters

There are several businesses on the island that rent scooters, road-legal golf carts, and cars at the airport. You can rent a jeep for $60 a day, or a golf cart for $35 a day. If you arrive with the ferry, you can take a shuttle to the airport. If you want to see the many beaches on all sides of the island you can hire a vehicle for 1-2 days and pretty much cover the entire island.

• Jerry's Jeeps is right across the street from the airport. He has older vehicles for $50 a day.
• Carlos Jeep Rentals (+1 787-742-3514) has a booth and jeeps at the airport.

There are two gas stations on the island: Ricky and Lili's garage by the ferry dock (the area can get very crowded when the ferry is there), and Dakiti on the other side of the channel, past the Colmado Milka supermarket.

What to see in Culebra

Culebra Puerto-Rico Flamenco-Beach Tank 2009-09-06 Med-Res - One of several WWII-Era American Sherman tanks stranded in the sand of Flamenco Beach.

• Flamenco Beach is quite outstanding and is featured on many "top 10 beaches" lists. Unlike the other beaches in Vieques and Culebra, it is popular enough to attract a real crowd. The beach is in a calm cove and stretches into a circle of nearly a mile in length, and a few rusted-out U.S. Army tanks silently watch over the beach. The water is clear, shallow, and calm, and the waves are small. Reefs exist on each side of the beach and are extremely simple to access directly off the beach if you have snorkeling equipment with you, and other snorkeling beaches can be accessible by taking the (safe) path through the old army minefield. The reefs are not world class but they are interesting enough for amateur snorkelers. Facilities at the beach are few. Showers run sporadically and there are flush toilets, but no lights other than in the bathroom. Fresh water is freely available. Bring a cooler with plenty of Snacks and soft drinks, plus towels or beach chairs if you can. Campers should be warned that it gets surprisingly windy and chilly at night. Bug spray is recommended. Bring a tent and sleeping bags, and, if you have one, bring a hammock to string between two trees for a night under the stars.

Culebra National Wildlife Refuge Map - Culebra National Wildlife Refuge map

• The Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, | established by Teddy Roosevelt in the early years of the 20th century, offers pristine environments for bird and turtle watching in several locations on and around the main island.

• Bioluminescent Organisms: While the neighboring island of Vieques may provide a more reliable source, Culebra’s waters do contain bioluminescent organisms. Talking to the local residents and heeding their advice should maximize one’s chances of witnessing the phenomenon and kayak rentals are available on the island to bring more mobility to your maritime search in the darkness.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Culebra

• Snorkeling: Shallow reefs are plentiful around Culebra. However, in recent years warmer water has killed off much of the once vibrant coral surrounding the island. Yet and the live patches of coral that remain and the schools of colorful fish surrounding them are spectacular. Combine these traits with amazing underwater visibility, up to 15-20 feet depending on the weather, and it makes for a fun snorkeling experience for both beginners and experts.
• Tamarindo Beach on the west side has a coral reef, and a grass area frequented by turtles and rays. The Luis Peña Channel Natural Reserve is a no-fishing area to help preserve the fish population. You can rent a mask, snorkel, and fins for the day at the beach.
• Scuba Diving: The best reason to visit Culebra. Though the shallow reefs have been hit hard by warmer waters, deep sea coral is still thriving. At depths ranging from 20-60 feet these coral formations are spectacular to swim in and around. Sea life is abundant and variable. Visibility is superb and easily ranges up to 60 feet when off shore. Dive masters are knowledgeable, experienced and patient. All of these aspects combined with phenomenal pricing and Culebra becomes one of the most cost-effective places to scuba dive.
• Rent a jeep and visit the beaches. Carlos Jeep Rental has a wide variety of Cars and jeeps.
• Rent a small motorboat ($150-$200/day) and visit the nearby islets such as Culebrita with even more private beaches.
• Camp on Flamenco Beach and just relax. Call (787) 742-0700 for more information on Camping
• Bird Watching: Hosting a wide variety of sea bird species, Culebra makes for excellent bird watching (especially in its numerous sanctuary zones).
• Turtle Watching: During the late spring and early summer Culebra hosts a variety of sea turtle species. Returning to the island to lay their eggs, Hawksbill, Leatherback, and Green sea turtles can be observed by beachgoers in the dark of night so long as their direct nesting sites are left undisturbed. The local Department of Natural Resources takes groups of volunteers to survey the turtles on occasion and the agency is your best option to both find and respectfully interact with the largest sea turtle species on Earth (the aforementioned Leatherback Sea Turtle).

Halal Restaurants

There are several small restaurants on the island as well as small hotels which have restaurants. Reservations are recommended if you plan on going to a hotel restaurant.

• Mamacitas Hotel and Restaurant - besides offering lodging | Has a restaurant and a tropical bar on the canal. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all great menus, although a little bit pricier than other local fare.

• Dinghy Dock Has a wonderful atmosphere and a good ment with a regular crowd of ex-pats. It's name is literal as people dock their dinghys and hop up for a table. If you head down when the chef gets in at about four thirty, you can help him feed the Tarpon fish that swim around the dock waiting for table scraps.

• Susie's Makes delicious fish and Meat dishes in a casual and elegant environment,Indoor and outdoor facilities next to the canal.Chef Susie specializes in Tropical latitudes cuisine mixing Puerto Rican food with Asian and Indian nuances.Full and fruit cocktails available. Popular with older expats and local residents.

• Barbara Rosa's Restaurant | 95 Calle Escudero near Airport,along the primary street heading west out of Dewey ☎ +1 787-397-1923 Opening Hours: Thursday - Monday 5PM Monday - 9PM There is no waiter service. That is how it is here: you drive up, grab an open seat. Offers homemade crab soup, fish n’ chips, lump- Meat blue crab cakes, and shark nuggets (a local favorite). The food is affordable and tasty, and your host is charming. Bring your own or favorite mix. Closed as of early 2023.

• El Eden, up the road from Colmado Milka. This restaurant comes particularly recommended, and provides a taste of America if island food grows tiring. Also has a bar, stores, sandwiches shop, and gift shop. Open daily.

Several food vendors hawk their wares daily at the entrance to Flamenco Beach. The grilled meat-on-a-stick is both delicious and affordable. Lots of bottled water and other cold drinks from vendors with ice chests.

Supermarkets:

• Colmado Costa del Sol is the largest supermarket on the island (it's still tiny), by the airport (221 Calle 1).
• Colmado Milka, a reasonably priced grocery store with recognizable American brands and native foods, and the only fresh Meat supply on the island. Open daily but only in the morning on Sundays. Take a right just past the bridge.
• Superette Mayra is a small jam-packed grocery store that has it all, including sundries such as cooking pots, supplies for diabetics, reading glasses, affordable coffee machines, beach toys, plastic flower pots, sewing needles. Closed Sundays and during siesta time 1-3:30 pm. On Calle Escudero.

Mamacita's restaurant, ], in the heart of the town is popular but relatively pricey; the bar area is right by the water. Dinghy Dock also has a waterfront café. El Eden has the best selection of in Culebra.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Culebra

Culebra - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Culebra, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Culebra. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Culebra and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Culebra. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Culebra. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Culebra: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Culebra.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Culebra: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Culebra, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Culebra.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Culebra, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Culebra, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Culebra and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Culebra, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Culebra, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Culebra without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Culebra is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Culebra.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Culebra is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Culebra, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Culebra Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Culebra

eHalal Group Culebra is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Culebra. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Culebra.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Culebra ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Culebra. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Culebra, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Culebra are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Culebrita Island - View of Culebrita Island (middleground), with St. Thomas in the furthest background

There are half a dozen or so guest houses, including the Palmetto Guesthouse, and small hotels on Culebra.

The term "resort" is a bit misleading as the average facility will be 2-3 stars at best. Thit is a small island after all! Some of the older hotels are barely a one star. Service is typical laid back (i.e., slow) island style. There are also plenty of houses and villas for rent on the island. Camping is permitted for up to four months at a time on the beautiful government-run Flamenco Beach, just a few miles outside of the main town.

• Harbour View Villas Is located overlooking Bahia de Sardinas and the town of Dewey. It consists of 3 individual cottages and 3 suites. The villas are on one level and the suites on another level. They all look out to the ocean. You can walk to Melones beach and the town of Dewey from the Villas, in 5-10 minutes.

• Mamacita's Guesthouse - 64 Castelar Street Culebra island ☎ +1 787 742-0090 $89.00 Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 11AM Waterfront guesthouse with a Caribbean style restaurant offers 10 rooms with balconies. The perfect place to enjoy your vacation, right in the heart of Culebra. Mamacitas can be loud in the evening so if you want a quieter option chose another place to stay.

Many private apartments are also available on the island, most can be book through Culebra Vacation Planners .

• MangoTree Culebra | Near town ☎ +1 845 797-5000 $90.00 Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 11AM Private apartment, sleeps 4 with kitchen and private balcony. Conveniently located, no need for a car. See the web site for pictures.

• Club Seabourne - one of the nicer hotels on the island and is located on the way to Soldier's Point. The lodgings here mainly consist of several small but well-furnished cabanas that overlook the hotel's moderately-sized pool. The very friendly staff offers complimentary breakfast, as well as lunch baskets, bike, snorkel and kayak rentals for small fees. In addition and they have a good and a pleasant but overpriced restaurant. Reserve, because the rooms here go quickly.

• Tamarindo Estates Beach Apts. - 18.3129956, -65.3186276 Between Flamenco Beach and Dewey, at the end of the road to Tamarindo Beach ☎ +1 787-742-3343 149/night $ Tamarindo Estates provides twelve 1-BR guest rental apartments on a remarkably virgin 60-acre estate, in the quiet and exclusive Tamarindo beach location, across from Culebra's Marine Reserve. It is nicely secluded, yet a short 5 to 7 minutes drive to town, where restaurants, grocery, and other stores are located. The 12 guest apartments afford great views of the ocean while you relax and sit on the apartment's private, covered deck.

Cope in Culebra

• The Culebra Calendar - Calle Castelar Culebra's only newspaper has information on current events and historical information. Nautical charts, weather, tides, astronomy, telephone directories, all free. They are non-profit and produced by a local volunteer staff. General Information 787-379-1973

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Culebra

• Vieques is the other "Spanish Virgin Island", a few miles from Culebra
• Fajardo on the Puerto Rico mainland
• Saint Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands

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