Welcome to Culebra Island
Culebra, one of the Spanish Virgin Islands, is part of Puerto Rico, a commonwealth of the United States. It is approximately 17 miles east of Puerto Rico (which is know as 'The Big Island”), 12 miles west of St. Thomas, and 9 miles from its sister island, Vieques. Culebra (which is Spanish for 'Snake' from its shape) is about 7 miles by 3 miles. Its total acreage, including cays is about 7000. The town of Dewey, and local neighborhoods are known as Barrios. The year round population is about 2000 warm and friendly islanders. While Spanish is the primary language, you will find that most locals understand and speak a little English, however, any effort you make at speaking Spanish is greatly appreciated by the Culebrense.
We have several special and unique species of flora, marine animals, wildlife and birds. Dolphin frolic in our waters, and in the spring, Humpback whales and their calves pass by on their Northern migration and our Turtle Watch Program helps protect the hatch lings born on our beaches.
Culebra's tallest point is Mr. Resaca, with an elevation of 650 feet. The island has a series of bays, peninsulas & cays encompassing abrupt cliffs, sandy shores and mangrove forests. The principal harbor is Ensenada Honda and is considered one of the most secure hurricane 'holes' in the Caribbean. A Historic Landmark, our lighthouse is the oldest in the Caribbean. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with peak in mid-August. To mid-October. We have been hit by major storms and also feel occasional tremors from earthquakes in the Puerto Rico trench. While rainy season is May-November, a true rainy day is a rarity – usually we just get passing showers if at all. Mosquitoes can become a little nasty after a lot of rain, but nothing bug spray won't take care of.
Local customs are few – the most important is to get on island time, and enjoy the slow and relaxed pace! Downtown, men are required to have a shirt on, and ladies need to cover their bathing suits. Be sure to wear your seat belt and stop at all the imaginary stop signs if you rent a car. Don't expect anything to happen quickly or with any order, because it rarely does. Culebra has little nightlife. There are a few watering holes and occasional music on the weekends for those of you wishing to practice salsa or Calypso. Take a moonlit stroll along our beaches and take in the shooting stars, watch the sunset from any of the south beaches, or go to bed early and wake up with the roosters!
Please don't litter or disturb the reefs or mangroves – our whole existence is dependent on these fragile ecosystems. Enjoy and leave Culebra as you found it for generations to come.
