Nightlife is limited on Culebra, but sometimes even nature lovers and beachcombers need to cut loose. El Batey (Carr. 250, km 1.1, 787/742-3828, Fri.–Sat. 10 p.m.–2 a.m., also serves lunch) provides that opportunity. Dancing is the primary attraction at this large no-frills establishment, where DJs spin salsa, merengue, and disco on Friday and Saturday nights. It also serves deli sandwiches and burgers ($3–5) during the day.

Everybody who goes to Culebra ends up at Mamacita’s (64 Calle Castelar, 787/742-0090, http://mamacitasguesthouse.com, Sun.–Thurs. 4–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 4–11 p.m.) at some point. The popular open-air watering hole right on the canal in Dewey attracts both locals and visitors alike. Two side-by-side tin-roofed pavilions provide shade for the cozy oasis appointed with brightly painted tables and chairs surrounded by potted palms. The blue tiled bar is tricked out with colorful folk art touches painted in shades of turquoise, lime green, and lavender.

Behind the bar you can buy cigarettes and condoms, and you can get a spritz of bug spray free of charge when the sand gnats attack. Happy hour is 3–6 p.m. daily. Try the house special cocktail, the bushwhacker, a frozen concoction of Kahlúa, Bailey’s Irish Cream, coconut cream, rum, and amaretto. Check the chalkboard for excellent daily dinner specials.