Best Ways to Travel to Culebra from San Juan: Flights, Ferry & Private Transfers
- Josue De Diego y Alejandro
- Oct 3, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Dec 7, 2025
Why Visit Culebra?
Culebra, a small island off Puerto Rico’s east coast, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world—most famously Flamenco Beach, ranked among the top beaches globally. With turquoise waters, sea turtles, and a laid-back island vibe, it’s the perfect escape from busy San Juan.
But before you sink your toes into the sand, you’ll need to figure out the best way to travel from San Juan to Culebra. Let’s break down your options.
Main Options to Travel from San Juan to Culebra
Travelers have five main ways to reach Culebra:
Flying direct from San Juan (SJU)
Flying from San Juan Isla Grande (SIG) with Air Flamenco
Taking a private transfer and ferry from Ceiba
Flying from Ceiba Airport (RVR) with Taxi Aereo
Renting a car and leaving it at Ceiba before boarding the ferry
1. Flying Direct from San Juan (SJU)
From Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), small airlines operate direct flights to Culebra’s Benjamín Rivera Noriega Airport (CPX). The flight takes only about 35 minutes, making it the fastest way to get to the island.
Pros and Cons of Flying from SJU
✅ Easiest if you’re already landing in San Juan on a commercial flight
✅ Quickest overall travel time
❌ Usually the most expensive option
❌ Limited luggage space
2. Flying from San Juan Isla Grande (SIG) to Culebra (CPX)
Air Flamenco offers multiple daily flights from San Juan Isla Grande Airport (SIG), located just 10 minutes from Old San Juan and Condado, directly to Culebra (CPX).
Flights are short (about 35 minutes) and scenic, giving you spectacular views of Puerto Rico’s coastline and surrounding islands.
Advantages of Flying from Isla Grande
✅ More flight availability compared to SJU
✅ Convenient location for travelers staying in San Juan
⚠️Cheaper than flying from SJU, but a lot more expensive than the ferry
❌ Limited luggage space
3. Taking a Private Transfer and Ferry from Ceiba
Travel Time from San Juan to Ceiba
The drive from San Juan to Ceiba Ferry Terminal takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1.5 hours. The route passes through scenic landscapes, including views of El Yunque Rainforest.
For a detailed breakdown of the terminal, ticket process, parking, and insider tips, check out our full Ceiba Ferry Terminal Guide
Buying Tickets and Ferry Duration
Ferry tickets cost around $5 for visitors and can be purchased at the terminal or online at Puerto Rico Ferry. The ferry to Culebra takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
We’ve also created a comprehensive guide to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal that covers ticketing, parking, and even last-minute ticket hacks.
Why Private Transfers Are the Best Option
Taking a flight to Culebra can be expensive and only allows limited luggage, and parking at the terminal costs $15 per day, but since rental cars cannot be taken to Culebra, many travelers waste money leaving cars unused.
That’s why booking a private transfer from San Juan to Ceiba ferry is the most convenient choice. You’ll enjoy a stress-free ride directly to the terminal without worrying about driving, parking, or logistics.
4. Flying from Ceiba Airport to Culebra
If you prefer to fly, Taxi Aereo operates short commuter flights from Ceiba Airport (RVR) to Culebra. The flight lasts about 12 minutes, making it the quickest way to cross.
Comparing Ceiba Flights vs Ferry
Taxi Aereo Flight – Faster, more comfortable, but more expensive.
Ferry – Cheaper, but can be affected by weather and ticket availability.
The best part? The Ceiba airport is right next to the ferry terminal, so you can easily choose whichever option works best for your schedule, and you can use our San Juan to Ceiba service can take you to either the ferry or the airport.
5. Renting a Car and Parking at Ceiba
Why You Can’t Take Rental Cars on the Ferry
Only residents of Vieques and Culebra are allowed to bring vehicles on the ferry. Visitors must leave their cars behind.
Parking Costs and Considerations
The parking lot near the terminal costs about $15 per day. For longer stays, this adds up quickly, and since your car won’t be used, it’s often a waste of money compared to a private transfer.
Insider Tips for Traveling to Culebra
Buy tickets early—ferry tickets sell out fast.
Consider flights if you’re short on time.
Travel light—planes and ferries have limited luggage space.
Private transfers save stress—especially if you don’t want to drive in Puerto Rico.
Best Option for a Stress-Free Journey
While flying is the fastest way to get to Culebra, the most reliable and cost-effective option for many travelers is taking the ferry from Ceiba.
And the easiest way to reach the ferry? Book a private transfer from San Juan to Ceiba. You’ll enjoy a comfortable, direct ride and avoid the hassle of parking, directions, and traffic.
Conclusion
Culebra is one of Puerto Rico’s most breathtaking destinations but reaching it requires some planning.
Fly directly from San Juan (SJU) for speed.
Choose Air Flamenco from Isla Grande for convenience.
Take the ferry from Ceiba for the most budget-friendly option.
Consider Taxi Aereo from Ceiba for the shortest flight.
🚐✨ And for a truly smooth start, book a private transfer from San Juan to Ceiba ferry. It’s the easiest, most comfortable way to begin your Culebra adventure.
FAQs about Traveling to Culebra from San Juan
1. How long is the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra?
About 1 hour 15 minutes.
2. How much are ferry tickets to Culebra?
For non-residents, around $5 one way.
3. How long is the flight from San Juan to Culebra?
Flights from both SJU and SIG airports take about 35 minutes.
4. Which airlines fly from San Juan to Culebra?
From SJU: commuter airlines (limited).
From Isla Grande (SIG): Air Flamenco.
5. Can I fly from Ceiba to Culebra?
Yes, Taxi Aereo offers 12-minute flights from Ceiba Airport.
6. Can I bring a rental car on the ferry?
No, only residents of Culebra can transport cars. Visitors must park at the terminal.
If you’re planning to take the ferry, our Ceiba Ferry Terminal Guide is a must-read before your trip
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About the Author
Josue is the founder and operator of Ceiba Ferry Transfers, a private transportation service specializing in transfers from San Juan to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal — the gateway to Vieques and Culebra.
With more than a decade of experience in Puerto Rico’s transportation industry, Josue manages every aspect of the business personally, ensuring reliability, comfort, and a local touch that larger companies can’t match.
When he’s not helping travelers reach the ferry stress-free, Josue enjoys boxing, exploring Puerto Rico’s beaches, and, occasionally, a well-earned plate of mofongo.
Safe travels and see you soon!
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