Flamenco Beach (Playa Flamenco)

Beach bums can spend a day at Flamenco Beach sinking their toes into sugar-like sand, splashing in the waves, and taking breaks to order smoothies or piña coladas from waterfront food stands. Those looking for more adventure can rent snorkel gear to explore Flamenco’s highly regarded coral reefs and observe underwater creatures such as parrot fish and sea turtles. High-speed catamaran cruises run from Fajardo, Isla Verde, and San Juan, often stopping at nearby Culebrita Beach, Playa Tortuga, or the other La Cordillera Islands. Guided tours make it easy to equip yourself with gear, while ensuring access to Culebra’s picture-perfect sights.

• Facilities at the beach include showers, restrooms, lockers, and picnic tables, as well as a selection of kiosks and beach bars.

• Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.

Flamenco Beach is located on the northwestern shore of Culebra Island, about 17 miles (27 kilometers) east of mainland Puerto Rico. Ferries leave Fajardo (about a 90-minute drive from San Juan) for Culebra several times a day and take about 90 minutes; plan to arrive several hours before your desired departure. For a smoother trip, take a 30-minute flight from Isla Grande Airport just outside San Juan. If visiting Playa Flamenco directly from Culebra Harbor or the airport, take a taxi or rent a car to access the beach. Book a guided tour to have all the logistics handled for you.

Flamenco Beach is busiest in the winter and spring, when it’s best to visit on a weekday or arrive early to avoid crowds. The Caribbean waters are warm year-round, and although low-season visitors can enjoy fewer crowds and cheaper prices, visiting during hurricane season (June through November) means boats might be canceled due to the weather.

The US Navy used Flamenco Beach as a practice ground from just before World War II until the 1970s. A pair of old US army tanks remain, abandoned on the northern edge of the beach. A reminder of Puerto Rico's military past, the rusted tanks have become something of a local landmark, spruced up with colorful graffiti, most notably a swirling green and yellow design painted by local artist Jorge Acevedo.

There is a fee of US$2 per person to visit Flamenco Beach. This admission fee gives visitors access to facilities, including bathrooms and showers. There are also kiosks selling refreshments and offering chairs and umbrellas for rent. Other fees include US$5 for parking or US$6 for the bus from the ferry terminal.

There are several ways to get to Flamenco Beach. Many visitors drive their own car and pay US$5 for parking. This beach is also accessible via public transportation. Ferries run between Culebra and Ceiba, and then a public bus from the ferry terminal to the beach is available for US$6 per person.

Yes, you can swim at Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico. Shallow waters at the ocean’s edge are often peppered with fish, and visitors regularly comment on the striking color of the water and pleasant swimming conditions. This beach is also a favorite for people looking to go snorkeling.

Yes, visiting Flamenco Beach is worth it. This strip of sand is one of the most popular in Culebra and is often noted on lists of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico. It also offers good facilities, including bathrooms and showers, plus equipment rentals including chairs and umbrellas.

Yes, there are restrooms at Flamenco Beach. Visitors pay a small entrance fee at this popular beach in Puerto Rico and gain access to facilities, including toilets and showers. There are also beach chairs and umbrellas available to rent. Refreshments are also available for purchase at this scenic beach.

Winter is the best time of year to visit Flamenco Beach. Between December and March, Puerto Rico experiences its dry season and offers pleasant temperatures for visitors. This makes Flamenco Beach a popular warm weather getaway from the U.S. during the coldest winter months.