Culebra Eastern Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico Travel Guide
Culebra has one small airport: Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport (CPX). This is a regional airport handling small propeller planes. Several commuter airlines offer flights to CPX from Puerto Rico's main island.
Most flights are short hops from Ceiba (approx. 15-20 minutes) or San Juan (approx. 30-45 minutes). Direct international flights do not land in Culebra. Travelers typically fly into San Juan (SJU) first, The Island of enchantment's main international gateway, then take a connecting flight or ground transport to the Ceiba ferry terminal. Check flight deals from Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.
Very small, regional airport with basic waiting areas and basic amenities. Plan for food/drinks before arrival.
Taxis (vans) usually wait outside the CPX terminal. Many guesthouses offer pick-up. Golf cart rental agencies are nearby.
Flights may see delays or cancellations because of the weather (wet/hurricane season) or mechanical issues.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply when departing Culebra itself. Standard U.S. Travel taxes are included in your flight prices from The Island of enchantment.
Arrive at least 1 hour before scheduled departure. Check-in and boarding are quick. Delays can occur, so a buffer is wise.
Arrive 1 to TWO hours prior to the scheduled departure time, especially during peak times. Lines can be long, and departures are often full. Be ready for delays or cancellations, and have a flexible onward plan.
Full-size car rentals are not common or practical on Culebra. The focus is almost exclusively on golf carts and Jeeps, which suit of the island roads and parking. You need a valid driver's license (U.S. Or international). Minimum age for rental is typically 21 or 25, varying by company/vehicle. Some may ask for a credit card security deposit.
Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the correct lane for traffic. Seatbelts are required for all in Jeeps and often advised in golf carts. Roads are mostly asphalted but can be narrow, winding, and hilly. Watch for potholes, speed bumps, and free-roaming chickens, goats, and iguanas.
Golf carts are the most popular and recommended transport for tourists. They are easy to maneuver, simple to park, and offer an open-air experience. They come in 2, 4, or 6-seater options, suitable for most paved roads. Jeeps are recommended for larger groups or those preferring a more robust vehicle. Jeeps suit the island’s unpaved, rocky, or muddy roads leading to secluded beaches. They offer higher clearance and four-wheel drive capabilities.
Culebra has no municipal bus service, metro, or trams. The isle's infrastructure does not support such vast public transit. The main modes of transport for visitors are personal cars (rental golf carts or Jeeps), local taxis, and strolling for short distances. This adds to Culebra’s charm, encouraging a slower pace and independent exploration.
Private water taxis offer services from Fajardo or Ceiba on the main island to Culebra. They further transport between Culebra's beaches and its surrounding cays (e.g., from Flamenco Beach to Carlos Rosario, or for trips to Culebrita Island). These are generally more expensive than the public ferry however provide flexibility, speed, and access to otherwise unreachable spots.
Culebra has few specialized transport options, highlighting its natural, undeveloped character. Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not available. The island's small size and focus on individual exploration do not endorse such services.
For both flights and rentals, book well ahead, especially in high season.
Consider sharing golf carts or taxis with groups to manage costs.
Ferry schedules can be unpredictable; have flexible onward travel plans.
For car rentals on the main island of Puerto Rico, consider DiscoverCars.com. This service allows you to compare prices from various rental agencies, finding a suitable vehicle for your needs.
If you plan to rent a car on the main island and drive to the Ceiba ferry terminal, a rental car can offer flexibility. Driving from San Juan to Ceiba typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Ample parking is available at the ferry terminal.
| Transportation Type | Pros | Cons | Price Range (Daily/Per Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golf Cart Rental | Most popular, easy to park, fun, access most paved areas. | Limited capacity (2-6 people), not ideal for rough, unpaved roads. | $45 - $75 per 24 hours | Couples, small families, general island exploration on paved roads. |
| Jeep Rental | More robust, better for rough roads and unpaved trails, more space. | More expensive, larger to maneuver/park, fuel costs. | $80 - $120 per 24 hours | Larger groups, adventurous travelers exploring remote beaches, carrying more gear. |
| Taxi | Convenient for short trips, no parking hassle, no rental commitment. | Less flexible than rental, can add up for several trips, cash often needed. | $5 - $10 per person per ride (shared) | Quick transfers from ferry/airport, specific beach visits without renting a vehicle. |
