You might be surprised to learn that Colombia has beautiful islands in the Caribbean Sea. I didn’t know till I traveled to Colombia. They are no less lovely than the Dominican Republic’s islands, despite not being as well known.
Colombia does, in fact, have a significant number of islands, both in the Pacific and in marine areas. The archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina is among Colombia’s most popular island destinations. The Sea of Seven Colors is the name of the Caribbean Sea archipelago that is located off the coast of Nicaragua and is home to 91% of Colombia’s coral reefs. San Andrés, a 26 square kilometer island, is the biggest in this archipelago.
That’s why San Andrés is one of the top destinations for scuba diving in the world. Even if you haven’t tried scuba diving yet you’ll find many schools on the island and they even offer professional certification.
Things to do on San Andrés:
Rent a motorbike or golf car and make a circle around the island
It was our first time driving a motorbike, but it wasn’t bad. The traffic, in general, is slow, just try to avoid the city center.
Renting price is around 100K COP per day and many companies deliver it to your hotel.
We’re renting with a local agency, motorbike was ok, no issues with returning it.
Scuba diving/snorkeling in the natural aquarium
It’s a tiny island Rose Cay – Acuario close to Cocoplum Bay. To get there just rent a boat on the beach which cost around 40k COP both ways.
Even if you’re not a fan of underwater activities you’ll love it here!
For snorkeling I recommend buying equipment in the city, it’s much cheaper than on the beach. Also, don’t forget about swimming shoes as it’s impossible to walk barefoot through the corals.
Visit Johnny Cay
Another wonderful little gem near San Andrés. Everything you need to unwind and rest is there—clear water, a white sand beach, and the shade of palm trees.
To get there the best option is to rent a boat. The starting point is Muelle Portofino.
Spend a day on the Cocoplum Bay
It is, in my opinion, the island’s greatest beach. Not very crowded with white sand and palm shade. There, you may bring your own towel or rent a sunbed. There are a few hotels that have access to this beach, so if your budget is not too tight, you might stay at one of them.
Eat fresh seafood in La Regatta
It’s one of the island’s top restaurants. They offer delicious, fresh fish. Since it’s a very popular place, you should reserve a table in advance, preferably a week in advance.
Visit Playa Charquitos
It’s a little beach in the southeast of the island, but it’s really lovely with wonderful water and natural baths. There are typically few people around, allowing you to enjoy the sunshine.
Watch the sunrise on the beach
The sunrise is best viewed toward the east of the island since it rises directly from the water and the sky is incredibly colourful. Do not miss this!
Tips: Sunrise and sunset are the best periods for the photo shooting
Where to stay in San Andrés:
Be prepared that San Andrés doesn’t offer luxury hotels with excellent service. They just don’t have good service, but still, it is worth going there. You’ll be spending the entire day outside so better to think about which area of the island you wanna stay in.
If you’re planning to rent a motorbike and you’ll be free in moving around the island you can choose any place, but without a motorbike traveling around the island is complicated so better consider hotels close to the beach or the city.
All the beaches are located on the northeast side of the island.
If you prefer a relaxing vacation you can stay outside of the city at Cocoplum Bay – it’s the most beautiful beach on the island. However after sunset, this beach is dead, everything is close and there are no bars.
If you’re more up to nightlife your choice is the northern part of the city. There’s also a nice beach but more crowded.
How to move around the island
- Motorbike – the most convenient way. Cost: around 100K COP per day. Gas is quite cheap, but note that there are not many gas stations on the island.
- Bus – there’s no schedule but it’s cheap. No one knows when it comes and leaves so you can lose a lot of time waiting at the bus station.
- Taxi – it’s your choice if you prepare not to drive a bike. From the airport to Cocoplum Bay costs around 30k COP.
Travel tips:
- To access the island you need to buy a tourist card at the airport of departure which cost around 124k COP per person, it’s an island fee.
- Mosquitos are everywhere even on the beach, make sure you have protection.
- Also, use sun protection all the time as the sun is very aggressive there.
- The Internet connection is bad so it’s impossible to work here.