Hiking trails in Culebra are some of Puerto Rico’s most beautiful hidden gems, offering not only stunning beaches but also exciting outdoor adventures. This tiny island has quickly become one of my favorite spots thanks to its delicious local food, breathtaking nature, and relaxing atmosphere.
So I’ve compiled the best hiking trails for all skill levels, along with some tips to make your experience more enjoyable. Whether you’re seeking a challenge or a relaxing stroll with incredible views, this guide has you covered!
Why Culebra is an Adventurer’s Paradise
Culebra is a nature lover’s dream come true. Besides beautiful hiking paths, visitors will discover tranquil beaches and stunning coral reefs rather than crowded tourist areas. It’s a completely different side of Puerto Rico, one that’s more relaxed and full of natural beauty. Perfect for those who love a mix of tranquility and adventure in their trips.
Where To Stay in Culebra, PR
- Budget ($) — EL Navegante de Culebra
- Best Value ($$) — Club Seabourne Hotel
- Luxe ($$$) — Bravo Beach Hotel
- Unique ($-$$$) — Las Casitas Village
Top 5 Must-Visit Trails in Culebra for Every Skill Level
Flamenco Beach and Zoni Beach have easy access by car, taxi, or guagua (public bus) from the town of Dewey. But, to reach the other trails, a taxi or rental car is best since it might be more difficult to get there.
With that said, here are the five best outdoor trails in Culebra that no adventurer should miss.
1. Flamenco Beach Trail – Easy
Where: PR-251, Flamenco, Culebra, PR, 00775
Flamenco Beach is one of the easiest trails in Culebra, but that doesn’t make it less beautiful. This beach is popular for its crystal-clear, shallow waters, and soft, white sand. This easy walk along Flamenco’s shore guarantees the best views of Culebra’s paradisiac landscape. And if you head to the west, you’ll be able to spot the iconic World War tanks covered in graffiti.
There are food stalls where you can grab a bite and drink after your walk. It also features amenities like a parking area, bathrooms, showers, and even umbrellas and deck chair rentals if you wish to stay on the beach longer.
Tip: if possible, go on weekdays or during the off-season, since this is a typical day trip from San Juan and can get a bit crowded sometimes.
- Beach entry— $2 per person.
- Parking— $5 per vehicle.
Best Tours in Flamenco Beach
Boat trips and guided tours like these are great options if you want to see the highlights of Culebra without worrying about transport:
- Boat Trip and Snorkel with Lunch and Drinks
- Full-Day Snorkeling Tour to Flamenco Beach with Lunch
- Culebra Power Boat Adventure – with Lunch, Drinks and Snacks
2. Zoni Beach Trail – Easy-Moderate:
Where: Playa Zoni, Culebra, PR, 00775
Unlike Flamenco, Zoni Beach doesn’t offer any amenities, but it’s way less crowded and just as beautiful. It’s a slightly more difficult hike because of the sandy trail, but totally worth it if you’re looking for a peaceful environment and secluded coves.
And if you wish to do more than hiking, Zoni has a large open area for outdoor activities like volleyball, soccer, or tennis. However, it might not be the best place for swimming or snorkeling due to the current and aggressive waves.
Note: If you’re visiting between April and June, be mindful of the turtle nesting sites! Community members in the area take care of them until they’re ready to go into the water.
Can’t have enough of Puerto Rico? Check out these guides:
Best Old San Juan Itinerary for 1 Day
Best Things to Do in El Yunque, Puerto Rico
Guide to Old San Juan Nightlife – Best Spots & Activities
3. Carlos Rosario Beach Hike – Moderate:
Where: Playa Carlos Rosario, Flamenco, Culebra, 00775, Puerto Rico
This is a 20-minute walk from the Flamenco Beach parking lot to the stunning Carlos Rosario Beach, known for being a highly sought-after area of Culebra for snorkeling.
It’s not a particularly strenuous walk, just keep in mind there are a few light uphills and downhills along the way—wear good hiking shoes for this one. Once you get down the hill, you’ll see Tamarindo Grande Beach on your left, but I suggest you keep walking to the end of the road until you reach Carlos Rosario for some of the most colorful coral reefs you’ll ever see.
This underwater paradise is wonderful for snorkeling and swimming among crystal-clear waters and marine life—you might even spot eagle rays, turtles, and angelfish, among many other creatures.
And if you love water activities, you can’t miss this list with my top picks in San Juan, PR!
Must-Do Tours and Activities in Culebra
Enjoy guided excursions to these beaches and many more on these interpretive tours:
- Swim with Turtles in Tamarindo Beach
- Boat Snorkeling & Beach Tour All Inclusive – Luis Peña, Carlos Rosario, Flamenco Beach, and More
- Private Day Trip Culebra Boat – San Juan Excursion and Beach Tour
4. Luis Peña Trail – Moderate-Hard:
Where: Reserva Natural Canal de Luis Pena (Culebra, Puerto Rico)
This popular trail is located in Luis Peña Keys, on the western coast of the Culebra island, and it’s known for its unspoiled nature. As part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, this area is protected to preserve its flora and fauna.
The Luis Peña Trail offers a serene journey with fantastic views of Culebra’s coastline, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife.
Besides hiking, you can enjoy many other activities in the area, like snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and secluded beaches.
Overall, it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers who like exploring away from the crowds.
5. Trail to Playa Resaca – Hardest:
Where: Take Highway 250 east and turn north right after the airport, follow the road until you get to a roundabout and follow the smaller path marked by a large rock and a turtle nesting zone until you get to the trail head.
The trail to Playa Resaca is the most difficult hike in Culebra, but that doesn’t make it less rewarding. It takes about 40 minutes each way with a rather steep path, first downhill and then uphill on the way back, which is more challenging.
You’ll be making your way through a maze of rocks and mangrove forest, you’ll even have to climb some rocks at a certain point—this is not the kind of hike you wanna do in your flip flops, trust me. But don’t worry, the path is very well marked with tape so it’s unlikely to get lost.
And finally, at the end of the trail, the breathtaking Resaca beach. One mile of dusty, golden sand, strong waves, and majestic, tree-covered hills. I wouldn’t recommend swimming in Playa Resaca, but it’s a great place to take photos and enjoy the serene, private setting.
Tip: check the weather beforehand and don’t go if there have been recent rains since the path will be muddy and slippery.
Last Thoughts
Hope this guide was useful! The trails of Culebra offer a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty that’s waiting to be explored. These tropical havens provide excellent options for both adventure seekers outlining their Puerto Rico itinerary and people seeking relaxation during their free time.
Do you have any favorite trails in Culebra that I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments!
XO,
Anna
Anna is a traveler, blogger, and entrepreneur who can’t keep herself still. She’s always on the move, whether working hard on a new passion project or exploring a new city as a part-time digital nomad. Dare to keep up? Check out The Tatted Nomad for everything digital nomad, social media marketing, mental health, and travel (and to see her latest addition, Novah, her service dog and travel companion). As a psychotherapist (to be) she also offers insights about your mental health related questions – anything you see that isn’t covered but you have questions about? Let her know!
