Culebra Island: Snorkeling with Sea Turtles & Flamenco Beach Day

Summary

Swim with turtles then unwind on Flamenco Beach’s soft sand

You’ll ride the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra Island with a local guide, tour colorful Dewey by minibus, then snorkel alongside sea turtles in Luis Peña Marine Reserve. Afterward, relax or wander at Flamenco Beach’s famous white sands before heading back—expect sun on your face and maybe a little salt left in your hair.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping off the Ceiba ferry was the salt in the air — sharp and clean, mixed with a bit of diesel from the boats. Our guide, Javier, waved us over with this big grin and a red shirt that was impossible to miss. He handed out our ferry tickets like he’d done it a thousand times but still managed to make each one feel personal. The drive through Dewey was quick but somehow lively — pastel houses, kids waving, roosters doing their thing (loudly). I tried to snap a photo but my lens fogged up. Typical.

Tamarindo Beach is where things got real. They gave us snorkel gear and some basic instructions — honestly, I was nervous about breathing through that tube. But once we slid into the water at Luis Peña Marine Reserve, everything else faded out except for the cool rush against my skin and the weirdly soothing sound of my own bubbles. Then Javier pointed down and there it was: a green sea turtle gliding by like it owned the place. I probably squeaked through my snorkel. There were schools of fish darting around coral that looked almost fake, too bright for real life.

Afterwards they handed out snacks (sweet pineapple and something salty I couldn’t pronounce) while we dried off in the sun, salt crusting on my arms. We piled back onto the bus for Flamenco Beach — white sand so fine it squeaked underfoot, and kiosks selling empanadas if you brought cash (I did; learned that lesson last trip). Some folks just lay there staring at clouds; I walked along the edge of the water until my feet went numb. Still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day Culebra Island adventure

• Meet at Ceiba Ferry Terminal
• Take ferry to Culebra Island
• Guided bus tour of Dewey town
• Bus tour ends at Tamarindo Beach
• Receive snorkeling instructions
• Snorkel in Luis Peña Nature Reserve
• Explore coral reefs and sea turtles
• Enjoy snacks and refreshments
• Relax and dine at Flamenco Beach
• Return to Ceiba Ferry Terminal

Top questions

How do you get to Culebra Island from mainland Puerto Rico?

The tour includes round-trip ferry tickets from Ceiba Ferry Terminal to Culebra Island.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Culebra day trip?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment including flotation belts are provided as part of the tour.

Can you swim with sea turtles during this tour?

Yes, you have a chance to snorkel with green sea turtles in Luis Peña Marine Reserve.

Are snacks or lunch included on this tour?

Light snacks and refreshments are included; lunch is not provided but can be purchased at Flamenco Beach kiosks.

Is hotel pickup included for this Culebra snorkeling tour?

No hotel pickup; you meet your guide at Ceiba Ferry Terminal for check-in.

What should I bring for the Culebra snorkeling day trip?

Bring a bathing suit (wear it under your clothes), towel, change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, cash for lunch, and waterproof phone protection if needed.

Are there age restrictions for this Culebra Island day trip?

The minimum age is 6 years old; children must be accompanied by an adult participant.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or beginners?

The snorkeling session includes basic instruction and flotation belts; suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for some health conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip ferry tickets from Ceiba to Culebra Island, guided minibus transportation around town and beaches all day, interpretive snorkeling sessions in Luis Peña Marine Reserve with all equipment provided (including flotation belt), light snacks and refreshments after snorkeling, plus time to explore or relax at Flamenco Beach before returning late afternoon—just remember to bring cash if you want lunch at the kiosks.