Transportation Options Inside Vieques and Culebra: How to Get Around the Island
- Josue De Diego y Alejandro
- Oct 31, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Dec 7, 2025
Getting Around Vieques and Culebra
Once you’ve arrived in Vieques or Culebra (whether by ferry from Ceiba or by plane), the next question is: How do you get around the island?
Both islands are small and easy to explore, but transportation options are limited — so planning ahead can make a big difference. Below, we’ll go over the most popular ways to move around, along with a few personal insights and tips from my own experience.
Car Rentals in Vieques and Culebra
Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to explore either island. You’ll have full freedom to visit beaches, small towns, and viewpoints at your own pace — without waiting for taxis or shuttle vans.
Maritza’s Car Rental in Vieques
On my last visit to Vieques, I rented from Maritza’s Car Rental, and they were fantastic — friendly, quick, and professional. I’ve rented both a Jeep and a Kia Seltos from them, and to be honest, the Kia Seltos was more than enough. It has higher ground clearance than a standard compact car, which helps on Vieques’ bumpier roads.
If you’re staying several days and want to explore beaches like Playa Caracas, Playa La Chiva, or Pata Prieta, a small SUV is perfect.
Jeep Rentals: Great, But Not Essential
Jeep rentals are very popular — especially in Vieques — but they’re not strictly necessary. Unless you plan to visit very remote beaches or travel after heavy rain, a regular SUV or crossover like the Seltos will do just fine, and you will be saving a few bucks by choosing a simpler option.
That said, if you’re the adventurous type, a Jeep is always fun and gives that tropical “island explorer” vibe.
Golf Carts
Golf carts are widely available in Culebra and are a fun, open-air way to get around. Culebra’s small size (just 7 miles long) makes it perfect for golf carts, especially for short stays or beach-hopping around Flamenco Beach and the town of Dewey.
However, I don’t recommend golf carts in Vieques — the island is much larger, and the roads between beaches can be long, dark, and sometimes unpaved. You’ll be much happier (and safer) in a car or SUV.
Scooters and Motorcycles
For solo travelers or couples, scooter or motorcycle rentals are a great alternative — especially in Culebra. They’re affordable, easy to park, and perfect for short distances. Just keep in mind that tropical rain showers can appear suddenly, and roads can get slick.
In Vieques, scooters are also an option, but again — because of the island’s size and rugged terrain — a car is usually more practical.
Taxis
Both Vieques and Culebra have taxi services, though they operate a little differently than in big cities.
In Culebra, I used taxis several times and had a great experience. The drivers were friendly, reliable, and affordable. I even shared a ride with other travelers, and the fare came out to about $5 per person from the ferry to Flamenco Beach— a great deal for short trips around the island.
In Vieques, taxis are also available, but their availability can vary, especially in the evenings. It’s best to get your driver’s contact number if you plan to rely on taxis for your stay.
Which Option Is Best?
Island | Recommended Transportation | Notes |
Vieques | Small SUV or Jeep | Best for exploring beaches and natural areas. Avoid golf carts due to distance. |
Culebra | Golf Cart or Taxi | Perfect for short distances. Compact and easy to park. |
Both | Scooter | Fun for short stays or solo travelers (weather permitting). |
Insider Tips
Book your rental car in advance — options on both islands sell out quickly, especially during weekends and holidays.
Always bring cash — some taxi drivers and small rental shops don’t accept cards.
Check fuel levels before heading out; gas stations close early on both islands.
Plan Ahead: Private Transfers from San Juan to Ceiba
Before you can rent a car or hop on a golf cart, you’ll need to get from San Juan to Ceiba — the gateway to both islands.
The most convenient way to reach the ferry or Ceiba airport is by booking a private transfer from San Juan to Ceiba. You’ll enjoy a stress-free, direct ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with optional stops along the way (like a supermarket stop before the ferry!).
✨ Book your private transfer today and start your Vieques or Culebra adventure the easy way — relaxed and on time.
FAQs About Transportation in Vieques and Culebra
1. Do I need a car in Vieques? Yes — unless you’re staying close to Isabel II and don’t plan to explore much, a car is the best option.
2. Can I rent a car in Culebra? Yes, though most people opt for golf carts or scooters since the island is smaller.
3. How much is taxi service in Culebra? Around $5–$7 per person for short trips within the main areas.
4. Is gas expensive on the islands? It’s usually slightly higher than on the main island, but not by much.
5. Should I book my rental before arriving? Definitely — both Vieques and Culebra have limited vehicles available, especially on weekends.
Conclusion
Whether you’re driving across Vieques’ wild beaches or zipping around Culebra’s colorful streets, transportation plays a big role in your island experience.
For Vieques, rent a car or small SUV like the Kia Seltos for freedom and comfort. For Culebra, a golf cart or taxi will get you everywhere you need to go.
And before your island hopping even begins, make the trip from San Juan to Ceiba smooth and easy with our private transfer service — your gateway to paradise.
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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!