At the turn of this century, President Theodore Roosevelt established a naval center and a bird refuge. Today, snorkelers wander through its coral kingdoms, nodding good-day to an astounding variety of sea creatures. Culebra with its 24 offshore islands forms a miniature archipelago. Arawak Indians once lived here and it was an infamous haven for pirates during the 17th century, before, during and after which various European powers fought for control of Vieques. A century-old lighthouse still protects the port.
Snorkeling is excellent, especially at Blue Beach.
Camping is permitted at Sun Bay with a free permit. Its reefs are popular with sport divers, and several Puerto Rican dive operators schedule trips here. It is a choice between exquisite beaches or breathtaking- mountain vistas. With a population of 300,000, Ponce is Puerto Rico's second-largest city. It was founded in 1692 by Ponce de Le6n's great-grandson.