Tamarindo Beach Culebra Puerto Rico
Discover Tamarindo Beach, Culebra's snorkeling haven, famous for sea turtles and vibrant coral reefs accessible right from shore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for turtles
Tamarindo Beach Culebra Puerto Rico
Best Time
Best chance for turtles
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Tamarindo Beach, Culebra's snorkeling haven, famous for sea turtles and vibrant coral reefs accessible right from shore.
"This is the place where my soul finds peace. The snorkeling here is fantastic!"
🐢 Morning Turtle Spotting
Go before 10 AM for the best chance to see sea turtles feeding.
🤿 Snorkel Safely
Watch for sea urchins and consider fins/floats for deeper areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Encounters
Offshore in seagrass beds
Witness majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Vibrant Coral Reefs
Nearshore
Explore a thriving coral reef teeming with diverse tropical fish and marine life.
Tranquil Waters
Shoreline
Enjoy calm, clear, and warm waters perfect for swimming and easy snorkeling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Turtle Sightings
Snorkeling Gear & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Morning Turtle Spotting
Go before 10 AM for the best chance to see sea turtles feeding.
🤿 Snorkel Safely
Watch for sea urchins and consider fins/floats for deeper areas.
🐠 Explore the Reef
Discover abundant fish and marine life just offshore.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early to avoid the midday sun and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Morning Turtle Spotting
Go before 10 AM for the best chance to see sea turtles feeding.
🤿 Snorkel Safely
Watch for sea urchins and consider fins/floats for deeper areas.
🐠 Explore the Reef
Discover abundant fish and marine life just offshore.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early to avoid the midday sun and enjoy cooler temperatures.
🌊 Check Currents
Be mindful of currents, especially when swimming further out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tamarindo Beach is widely praised as a peaceful paradise and a top spot for snorkeling, particularly for its abundant sea turtle sightings. Visitors love the vibrant coral reefs and clear, warm waters, making it an unforgettable underwater experience. Some caution is advised regarding sea urchins and currents, and planning for morning visits is recommended for the best wildlife encounters.
"This is the place where my soul finds peace. There are other beautiful beaches but Tamerindo is where I learned to snorkel and it gave me a whole incredible world just beneath the water. It feels like a long and faithful friend."
dawn mcewan
"You can snorkel in this beach. Just have to watch out for sea urchins as you're entering the water. We did not see any turtles on our visit but was advised that if you want to see turtles you should go in the morning before 10:00 a.m. because they feed during that time and go dormant the rest of the time. We snorkeled and saw a couple of rays and even an eagle ray. There's a lot of sea grass here and a water gets pretty deep"
Thu-Nga Ortega, DDS, MAGD
"The best place to go snorkeling to see fish reefs and turtles. The water is warm and not deep. It's beautiful."
Rebecca Clemmer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tamarindo Beach is located on Culebra Island. You can reach Culebra by ferry from Ceiba or by small plane from San Juan or Ceiba. Once on Culebra, you can take a taxi or rent a golf cart to get to Tamarindo Beach. +1
Yes, Tamarindo Beach is an excellent spot for shore snorkeling. Many visitors report seeing turtles and abundant marine life directly from the beach.
Golf carts are a popular and convenient way to explore Culebra, including getting to Tamarindo Beach. Taxis are also available.
Yes, you can take small commuter flights to Culebra from San Juan (SJU) or Ceiba (RVR). This is a faster but more expensive option than the ferry.
The ferry schedule can be inconsistent and tickets are often sold out quickly. It's advisable to check the latest schedule and arrive very early to purchase tickets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tamarindo Beach is part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge and typically does not have a direct entrance fee. However, access to Culebra itself may involve ferry or flight costs.
Tamarindo Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official closing times posted, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and visibility.
No, you do not need to book a tour to snorkel at Tamarindo Beach. It's a popular spot for shore snorkeling, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
As part of a wildlife refuge, visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment. Avoid touching coral and marine life, and pack out everything you pack in.
Yes, bringing your own snorkeling gear is highly recommended for Tamarindo Beach. This ensures you have a comfortable fit and are prepared for the conditions.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Tamarindo Beach is renowned for its sea turtles, various species of fish, rays (including eagle rays), squid, and sometimes even barracudas. You can also spot abundant tropical life around the coral reefs.
While the water can get deep and currents can be present, beginners can snorkel here with caution. It's advisable to stay closer to shore or use floats/life jackets.
Wear a swimsuit and consider bringing a rash guard for sun protection. Fins are highly recommended for easier swimming and exploring.
Facilities at Tamarindo Beach are minimal. It's advisable to come prepared with everything you need, including water and snacks.
The best times for snorkeling are in the morning, especially before 10 AM, for turtle sightings and calmer waters.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically no restaurants or food vendors directly at Tamarindo Beach. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks or dine in Culebra town.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at Tamarindo Beach. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Culebra town offers various local eateries and restaurants serving fresh seafood and Puerto Rican cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the clear turquoise waters, vibrant marine life while snorkeling, and the serene beach landscape. The sea turtles are a popular subject. 
Consider using a waterproof phone case or a GoPro for underwater photography. Be cautious with your equipment near the water.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Golden hour before sunset can also provide beautiful lighting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the early morning to avoid the midday sun and potentially see turtles. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The adventure of reaching Culebra itself, whether by ferry or plane, can be an exciting part of the trip for kids. Renting a golf cart on Culebra adds to the fun and allows for easy access to the beach.
🐠 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own snorkeling gear and food/drinks will save money. Exploring Culebra via golf cart rental can also be more cost-effective than relying solely on taxis for multiple trips. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and abundant marine life that Tamarindo Beach offers for free.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Snorkeling Paradise: Tamarindo Beach
While the snorkeling is fantastic, it's important to be prepared. Redditors advise watching out for sea urchins as you enter the water and recommend wearing fins for better maneuverability and to conserve energy, as the water can get deep. Some visitors suggest taking floats or a life jacket if you're not a strong swimmer, as currents can be present. The best time for sightings is generally before 10 AM, as turtles feed during this period and become less active later in the day.
Many visitors find Tamarindo Beach to be a peaceful and rewarding snorkeling spot, often describing it as a place where their 'soul finds peace.' The warm, clear waters make for an enjoyable experience, and the abundance of marine life provides endless fascination. It's a testament to the natural beauty of Culebra and a must-visit for any snorkeling enthusiast.
Navigating Culebra: Getting to Tamarindo Beach
Once you're on Culebra, golf carts are the preferred mode of transport for many visitors, offering flexibility and ease of access to various beaches, including Tamarindo. Taxis are also available. The island is relatively small, making it easy to explore and discover its many beautiful spots.
It's worth noting that while Tamarindo Beach is a prime destination, other beaches like Flamenco and Zoni are also highly recommended by visitors for their beauty and unique offerings. Planning your transport in advance, especially if relying on the ferry, can significantly enhance your Culebra experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit