In a past life I must have been a dolphin, playfully flitting with my ocean mates. In a future life I prefer to return as a pelican, skimming the wave tops, soaring in formation with a targeted dive for a fresh fish dinner. In this life I am a Pisces, water woman, in search of the perfect swimming hole and the world’s BEST beach.

Playa Flamenco

I have found a slice of nirvana on the small island of Culebra, Puerto Rico. Flamenco Beach ranks as one of those special places and consistently is included in the lists of the “Best World Beaches”. Photos can not capture the stunning splendor of this mile long crescent shaped beach surrounded by green rolling hills, lush tropical plants and palms trees. And, thanks to the locals, Flamenco Beach has been kept free of concrete structures, high rises and big resorts.

The crystal clear water is a kaleidoscope of textures and color. Changing constantly and displaying a shimmering rainbow of varying shades of aqua marine, cobalt, soft blues and deep emerald greens. The crescent shaped land shelters the bay making it a delightful place for open water swimming and snorkeling around the reefs adorning each end of the beach.

And did I mention the sand – white, fine and soft, like velvet caressing the feet or entire body. Silken, yet hard from the receding tide makes for perfect beach walking.

There is a quiet campground at one end of the beach with tables, tent sites, bathrooms and water if you prefer rustic, outdoor accommodations with waves lulling you to sleep under the stars.

Telltale iguana tracks lead to the dense vegetation.

At the end of Flamenco Beach, partially buried in sand, sits an old military tank from when the US Navy used the island as a gunnery range in the 70s.

You can get Puerto Rican street food here too! The fresh and fried snapper is a favorite along with empanillos (empanadas), pinchos (kebabs), tostones (twice fried plantains) and much more. Oh and don’t forget the fresh made mojitos.

I was fortunate to reserve an efficiency apartment at the quiet and well maintained Villa Flamenco on the far end of the beach – life in beach nirvana.

Many thanks to my gracious hosts Juan y Violetta for wonderful stay.