Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico (2024) – All You Need to Know

Are you looking for a breathtaking, award-winning beach to relax on?

Look no further than Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico! 

I’ve grown up in Puerto Rico and have visited almost all of the beaches, and Flamenco is in my top three.

With its clear water and soft white sand, it’s easy to see why this beach comes highly recommended by tourists and locals alike. 

In this article, I will cover everything that you need to know about Flamenco Beach:

What is Flamenco Beach?
Where is Flamenco Beach located?
What is the best way to get to Flamenco Beach?
Why is Flamenco Beach famous?
Is Flamenco Beach the best beach in the world?
Can you stay on Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico?
How much does it cost to visit Flamenco Beach?
Can you visit Flamenco Beach without a tour?
How much time do you need in Flamenco Beach?
Is Flamenco Beach open to the public?
Is Flamenco Beach worth visiting?

 

What is Flamenco Beach?

Flamenco Beach is considered one of the top beaches in the world. 

This beach is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing; you name it!

image of a beach
Historic tank on Flamenco Beach.

The beach has lifeguards, showers, bathrooms, a parking area, and a food truck where you can find delicious Puerto Rican food.

This beach was not always a tropical paradise destination; it has an impactful history dating back to World War II.

Culebra was used to allocate all of the Navy after Spain left Puerto Rico in 1901. 

This island was used for ground maneuvering, bombing practice, and test landings. Although the Navy did not establish an official base in Culebra, tons of equipment were moved there for testing. 

By 1975, the Navy finally agreed to move out of the Island and left a lot of gear behind, including the iconic and massive tank you probably have seen when googling “Culebra, Puerto Rico.”

Because this tank was so big and heavy to move, they let the salty sea water and winds work their way into the metal, leaving it to rust as the years passed.

Today, the tank remains a historical memory that this beach offers. 

Realistically though, the tank is now more submerged in the water. If you see pictures now, it was back when it was closer to shore. 

You’ll still be able to get on it and take pictures, just make sure you’re in your bathing suit!

 

Where is Flamenco Beach located?

Flamenco Beach is located on the island of Culebra, just 20 miles off the east coast of Puerto Rico.  

You cannot drive directly to Flamenco Beach, you’ll have to drive to the ferry terminals in Ceiba which is an hour-and-a-half-long drive from San Juan. 

image of Flamenco Beach map
Image of a map from Ceiba to Culebra

Once you get on a ferry and reach Culebra, you’ll take a taxi van from the terminal port that drives you directly to Flamenco Beach.

Watch the video below to learn more about Flamenco Beach, Culebra and different ways to get there.

 

What is the best way to get to Flamenco Beach?

The best way to get to Flamenco Beach is by ferry in Ceiba. 

We recommend taking the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra island as it’s a very budget-friendly option and much more flexible. Ceiba is an hour drive from San Juan.

Save the pin in Google Maps below to locate the ferry terminals:

The trip to Culebra on a ferry is about 45 minutes, offers affordable tickets plus discounts for kids.

You can buy your tickets ahead of time online by clicking here.

From recent experience, I highly recommend booking at least a week or two in advance. 

Culebra is very popular, and tickets sell out fast. Ordering online will ensure an easy and smooth experience to avoid headaches and unpredictability. 

If you’re spontaneous and want to book the trip on the same day, it’s best to get there as early as 5 am. 

You can also fly to Culebra if you have a larger budget. Flights from Ceiba are offered on Air Flamenco or Cape Air.

image of a ferry
Culebra’s cargo ferry, Lady Eve.

 

Why is Flamenco Beach famous?

This award-winning beach is famous for its bright blue waters, diamond-dusted sands, diving sites, and accessible swimming areas.

It’s perfect for a family getaway and even better for a romantic one.

It’s also famous for its calm waters. Because it’s in a protected cove location, there are no rough waves. This makes it perfect to snorkel and ideal to take the kids.

The name “Flamenco Beach” comes from the flamingos that visit during the winter, creating a gorgeous background and breathtaking visit. If you’re planning on visiting during the Winter, and lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one, you’re in for a treat!

image of a beach
Entrance to Flamenco Beach.

 

Is Flamenco Beach the best beach in the world?

Flamenco Beach won 3rd ranking as the best beach in the world by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award, and for good reason.

Also voted by Discovery Channel as the second most beautiful beach in the world and has an active Blue Flag Beach status.

With all these accolades, it’s safe to say that Flamenco Beach is one of the best beaches in the world.

image of a beach
Flamenco Beach.

 

Can you stay on Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico?

As of recently, you cannot stay on Flamenco Beach

Due to the pandemic, they have limited their camping area until further notice.

There are no hotel or resort nearby Flamenco Beach, you will have to stay at an Airbnb or hotel near town and take a shuttle to the beach

If you’re renting a car or a golf cart, then you’re in luck and can travel to Flamenco Beach anytime you like.

image showing the camping area in Flamenco Beach
Image of a tent in the camping area of Flamenco Beach

 

How much does it cost to visit Flamenco Beach?

There is a small per person admission to Flamenco Beach. 

If you’re traveling in your rented car or golf cart, expect to pay for daily parking. 

If you’re coming from the terminal and taking a taxi van, expect to pay for transportation from the terminal to the beach and back to the terminal when you’re done for the day.

image of a beach
Old military tank on Flamenco Beach.

In total, from ferry ticket, to taxi van transportation and admissions to enter the beach, you’re expected to spend around $30 in total per person. To enjoy food and drinks, I’d say bring $50 in cash in total (remember to tip your drivers.) 

 

Can you visit Flamenco Beach without a tour?

Yes, in fact, Flamenco Beach does not require a tour guide to get there.

However, there are plenty of tour companies that can help you explore Flamenco Beach.

You can also book a private catamaran trip to Culebra which can take you to the other islands near this beach such as Culebrita, Luis Pena, and beyond.

image of a turtle
Sea turtle swimming in Culebra’s waters.

 

How much time do you need in Flamenco Beach?

Realistically, you will need to plan out an entire day dedicated to visiting this beach.

Many travelers plan a vacation directly to Culebra and stay at an Airbnb, so if that is your case, then you can stay at the beach as much as you want.

For the average traveler who is staying in Puerto Rico and needs to take the ferry to visit the island, you will want to book a ticket departing early in the morning until late in the evening for your return.

image of a camping area in Flamenco Beach
Camping out on Flamenco Beach.

 

Is Flamenco Beach open to the public? 

Yes! As of September 2022, Flamenco Beach is open to the public.

Flamenco Beach is open all day every day, but the parking area, kiosks, and camping areas are closed at around 6 pm. If you want to enter the beach after these hours, you’ll have to find a way in that is not the main entrance. 

My best recommendation is to park near the “El Muellecito” area and enter at the openings.

image of people walking at Flamenco Beach

 

Is Flamenco Beach worth visiting?

Absolutely!

Flamenco beach is one of the best beaches you can visit during your stay in Puerto Rico.

Missing out on this award-winning beach experience will make you question if you enjoyed your stay in Puerto Rico or not.

Although there is much to offer besides the beach, the experience is worthwhile.

This is an adventurous trip to go through: Getting on a 45-minute ferry, taking a taxi van to the beach while you see the beautiful scenery Culebra has to offer, and more. 

And that’s not all; the local restaurants offer one of the most delicious and authentic Puerto Rican cuisines your taste buds will enjoy.

So if you’re visiting Puerto Rico soon, I recommend reserving a day in your calendar to visit Flamenco Beach because, realistically, it’s a trip that will take all day to enjoy.

image of a beach
Flamenco Beach.

Visiting Flamenco Beach in Culebra will be one of the best experiences you’ll ever have. 

Enjoying the white sand and crystal clear waters will have you understand why this is one of the most famous beaches in the world.

It’s always a pleasure to be able to visit the island of Culebra; many residents in Puerto Rico have never had the chance to visit the island, so you know it’s going to be a treat.

If you’re expecting to take excellent pictures of the tank, just a heads up, the tank is more submerged in the water than it is on land. You’ll be able to take a picture, but be sure you’re wearing a bathing suit.

 

Final thoughts

Flamenco Beach is definitely worth visiting.

The trip to Flamenco Beach is relatively affordable, with the ferry ride, transportation to Culebra and admission to the beach averaging around $30.00 USD per person.

So if you’re asking me, or anyone who has visited this beach, they will recommend it and say it’s very much worth the trip.

If you are looking for other beaches to visit, then check out our article where we review the 30 best beaches in Puerto Rico

Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico (2024) – All You Need to Know
Article by

Miguel Concepcion

Writer & Editor at PuertoRico.com. I’ve lived in Puerto Rico for 14 years and have experienced every inch of this stunning island. Growing up in Puerto Rico has helped me truly learn about the rich culture and extensive history this island has to offer. I share my local knowledge in all of the articles that I write. 

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