The Ultimate Guide to Getting from San Juan to Culebra (Updated 2025)

Hey there, island adventurers! So you've landed in bustling San Juan, but you're craving those Instagram-worthy beach vibes that only Culebra can deliver. I get it—those powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters are calling your name.

But here's the thing: getting from San Juan to Culebra can be a bit challenging, even for seasoned travelers. After multiple trips I've put together this no-nonsense guide to help you navigate your way to paradise.

Where Exactly is Culebra?

Culebra is a small island municipality located about 17 miles east of the Puerto Rican mainland and 12 miles west of St. Thomas. It's known for having some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean, particularly Flamenco Beach, which regularly makes those "Top 10 Beaches in the World" lists.

Unlike the main island, Culebra feels delightfully undeveloped— no big resorts, no chain restaurants, just pure tropical magic. It's why people make the extra effort to get there!

Four Ways to Reach Culebra from San Juan

1. The FRUGAL Option: Car + Ferry ($$)

How it works:

  • Rent a car in San Juan

  • Drive approximately 1 hour to the Ceiba ferry terminal

  • Park your car at the terminal (important: you CANNOT take your rental car on the ferry)

  • Hop on the ferry for a 30-45 minute ride to Culebra

Costs breakdown:

  • Car rental: $40-80/day (via Discover Cars)

  • Parking at Ceiba terminal: $5-7/day

  • Ferry ticket: $5 round-trip for residents, $4.50 one-way or $9 round-trip for non-residents

Ferry schedule: Varies seasonally, but typically runs 3-4 times daily. Check the Puerto Rico Ferry website for up-to-date schedules.

Pro tips:

  • Book ferry tickets online in advance—they sell out FAST, especially during high season and weekends

  • Show up at least 1 hour before departure; ticketing lines can be long

  • For return trips, arrive 1.5 hours early as seats are first-come, first-served

  • Download the Puerto Rico Ferry app for real-time updates on cancellations (happens more often than you'd think)

2. The Time-Saver: Direct Flight ($$$$)

How it works:

  • Fly directly from San Juan International Airport (SJU) or Isla Grande Airport to Culebra Airport

  • Flights take approximately 30 minutes

Airlines serving Culebra:

Costs:

  • One-way tickets: $90-150

  • Round-trip: $180-300

Pro tips:

  • Book at least 3-4 weeks in advance for better rates

  • Baggage restrictions are strict due to small aircraft—pack light!

  • Consider taking a flight one way and ferry the other to save money

3. The Stress-Free Option: Private Shuttle + Ferry ($$$)

How it works:

  • Get picked up from your San Juan hotel/airport

  • Shuttle takes you directly to the Ceiba ferry terminal

  • Take the ferry to Culebra

  • Some companies handle the entire booking process, including ferry tickets

Shuttle providers:

Costs:

  • Private shuttle: $80-150 one-way (depending on number of passengers)

  • Shared shuttle: $30-60 per person

  • Ferry ticket: $4.50 one-way

Pro tips:

  • Schedule pickup at least 3 hours before ferry departure

  • Some shuttle services include ferry tickets in their package

  • Ask about return trips for a round-trip discount

4. The Carefree Day-Tripper: Catamaran Tour ($$$)

How it works:

  • Drive or take a shuttle to Fajardo's Puerto Marina

  • Join a catamaran day trip to Culebra

  • Enjoy guided snorkeling and beach time

  • Return to Fajardo in the late afternoon

Tour operator:

Costs:

  • Day trips: $110-170 per person (typically includes lunch, drinks, snorkeling equipment)

Pro tips:

  • Book 1-2 weeks in advance, earlier during high season

  • Bring motion sickness medication if you're prone to seasickness

  • These tours often include stops at Culebrita (smaller island with a beautiful beach) and snorkeling at reefs

Getting Around Culebra Once You're There

Unless you're just visiting Flamenco Beach on a day trip, you'll need transportation around Culebra. Options include:

Rental Cars & Golf Carts

Costs: $65-90/day for a Jeep, $50-75/day for a golf cart

Públicos (Shared Taxis)

  • Available at the ferry terminal and airport

  • Flamenco Beach shuttle: $3-5 per person each way

  • Other destinations: $10-15 per person

  • Call Victor (local driver) for dedicated service: (787) 230-0034

Where to Stay in Culebra

Culebra has limited accommodations, so book early!

Mid-Range

Essential Packing Tips

Culebra is rustic, so come prepared:

  • Cash (ATMs are unreliable)

  • Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)

  • Insect repellent

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snorkel gear (or rent locally)

  • Groceries for longer stays (limited options on the island)

  • Power bank (occasional outages happen)

Best Time to Visit

  • Peak season: December-April (driest, but crowded)

  • Shoulder season: May-June, November (good balance)

  • Low season: July-October (hurricane season, cheaper rates)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a direct ferry from San Juan to Culebra? No, all passenger ferries to Culebra depart from Ceiba (about 1 hour drive from San Juan).

How far in advance should I book ferry tickets? For weekdays: 3-7 days in advance For weekends/holidays: At least 2-3 weeks in advance

Can I take a day trip to Culebra from San Juan? Yes, but it's tight. The earliest ferry from Ceiba departs around 9:00 AM, getting you to Culebra by 10:00 AM. The last ferry back is typically around 6:00 PM. Factor in drive time from/to San Juan.

Is the ferry reliable? Not always. Weather cancellations happen, particularly December-February when waters can be rough. Always have a backup plan.

How's the cell service on Culebra? Spotty but improving. AT&T tends to have the best coverage.

Are there grocery stores on Culebra? Yes, but limited selection and higher prices. Bring essentials from the mainland.

What's the essential Culebra experience? Flamenco Beach is a must-see, but don't miss Zoni Beach, snorkeling at Melones, hiking to Resaca Beach, and visiting the historic lighthouse on Culebrita.

Have you traveled to Culebra recently? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below! And if you found this guide helpful, check out my other Puerto Rico adventures on the blog.

Disclaimer: Information accurate as of May 2025, but schedules and prices may change. Always confirm details before traveling.

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