Tortuga
Culebrita is a small island off the East coast of Culebra. It is part of the Nature Reserve of Culebra and is home to one of the oldest lighthouses in the Caribbean. As a small island, measuring approximately one mile in length, it boasts six different beaches and tidal pools. Accessible only by boat, Culebrita is a small step away from deserted beach paradise.
The main beach in Culebrita is Tortuga Beach or Turtle Beach. As you may have guessed, the name comes from the large number of turtles (hawksbill and leatherback) who visit the island either for nesting or feeding purposes. Tortuga Beach is a horseshoe of white powder-like sand and crystal clear waters. It is a great beach for swimming and amateur snorkeling. The best snorkeling in Culebrita is done on the East and South beaches of the island. Still, you could bump into a hawksbill turtle while snorkeling in Tortuga Beach. We did! Just look our cover.
You might think that once you get to Tortuga Beach, lie on the beach and swim in its pristine waters, you’re adventure is done. Guess again! From Tortuga you have very different hiking options. There are trails that lead you either to the East to Trash Beach, the West to West Beach, the North to the tidal pools, or the South to the lighthouse. I recommend the shortest and the longest hikes.
You might think that once you get to Tortuga Beach, lie on the beach and swim in its pristine waters, you’re adventure is done. Guess again! From Tortuga you have very different hiking options. There are trails that lead you either to the East to Trash Beach, the West to West Beach, the North to the tidal pools, or the South to the lighthouse. I recommend the shortest and the longest hikes.
The shortest hike is to the tidal pools. If you hike North of Tortuga Beach for about 10 minutes, you will find yourselves in Culebrita’s tidal pools or the Jacuzzis. These natural pools are kept warm by the Caribbean weather and almost demand that you sit and relax in them. If you’re planning to walk to the tidal pools, don’t leave behind your shoes. Part of the hike involves navigating through some unforgiving rocks.
The longest hike from Tortuga is to the lighthouse. Completed in 1886, it was one of the oldest operating ighthouses in the Caribbean until it was closed in 1959. Although the hike is long, you will experience some of Culebrita’s wildlife. You will see birds and different species of cacti. Once you get to the lighthouse itself, you will enjoy views of Culebra, St. Thomas and Cayo Norte, not to mention the views of Culebrita’s own beaches. For this hike, please remember to bring water and a light snack. Don’t forget your camera and please, don’t take souvenirs from this historic building.
When traveling to Tortuga Beach, remember the following tips. Tortuga is a beach on Culebrita island. There are no amenities to speak of so bring all you need for day of fun in the sun, swimming and hiking. Plan ahead either or a water taxi or a Culebrita island tour guide. Reservations are definitely suggested. Remember that Culebrita is part of the Natural Reserve so tread lightly on the hiking paths and mind the corals while snorkeling. Most importantly, be ready to have fun in this little piece of paradise.
When traveling to Tortuga Beach, remember the following tips. Tortuga is a beach on Culebrita island. There are no amenities to speak of so bring all you need for day of fun in the sun, swimming and hiking. Plan ahead either or a water taxi or a Culebrita island tour guide. Reservations are definitely suggested. Remember that Culebrita is part of the Natural Reserve so tread lightly on the hiking paths and mind the corals while snorkeling. Most importantly, be ready to have fun in this little piece of paradise.
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