Should you stay in one of the paradise-like Isla Baru Hotels for your Colombia vacation?

It can be a terrific idea, but you must do in-depth research.

You see, Baru Island has a lot of advantages and drawbacks. It will have a significant impact on your stay.

I’ve been several times to Isla Barú since 2015, and I spent tens of hours analyzing the best Barú island hotels.

After reading this expert guide, you’ll be able to:

• Pick the right hotel
• Learn all the best tricks to improve your stay.

Bring your beach towel, and let’s go!

👉 Want to know everything about the Rosario Islands? To learn where are the best places, and avoid tourist traps and beginner’s mistakes? Nothing could be easier. I put it all together in our guide to the Rosario Islands.

Best Barú hotels: Takeaway + Map

I know your time is precious. I put everything you need to know inside a table and a map. You’re welcome 🙂

Hotel name	Main benefit	Distance
Sofitel Baru Calablanca	Modern, luxurious, massive hotel	1h15 drive or 30-min boat
Playa Manglares	Lush vegetation & homemade food	1h drive
Soy Local Baru	A crowded paradise	1h drive
Casa Cordoba Baru	Quiet, with a private beach and pool	1h30 drive
Hotel Las Islas	The most luxurious option	1h boat ride or 1h30 drive
Isla del Encanto	A family-friendly resort	1h boat ride
Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort	Affordable remote paradise	1h30 drive + 20 min boat
Aura Hotel	Family-friendly and noizy	1h30 drive
Playa Surf Baru	Beachfront & turquoise waters	1h drive

Best Hotels in Isla Baru: Mini-Reviews

Discover a smart summary of each of my favorite hotels in Isla Barú. I sort them by distance from Cartagena (the closest being the first one)

1# Sofitel Baru Calablanca: Modern, luxurious, massive hotel

You should choose Sofitel Baru Calablanca for its stunning location, beautiful beach with warm water and fine white sand, comfortable rooms with ocean views, and excellent hotel facilities, including multiple pools, a well-equipped gym, and a spa. The hotel provides a relaxing atmosphere and is not a place for mass tourism or partying. The staff is helpful and kind, and the beautiful property itself is modern and well-designed.

❌ What are the drawbacks? 

Drawbacks include expensive food at the hotel’s restaurants (quality should be improved for the high prices) and slow service, particularly in the beach area and during high occupancy periods. The hotel’s location is somewhat isolated, and transportation to the hotel can be rough due to unpaved roads. There is a need for reservations at the hotel’s restaurants, which you may not be informed about beforehand.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel? 

The scenery around Sofitel Baru Calablanca is breathtaking, with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea, impressive infrastructure facilities, and a modern design.

🚗 How to get there: 

1h15 by road with a bumpy section at the end or a 30-min boat ride from Cartagena.

📍 Where: North of Isla Blanca

Tips to improve your stay:

• Plan your visit during a less windy season to better enjoy the beach and ensure smoother transportation. 
• Reserve your spots at the hotel’s restaurants beforehand, and consider budgeting for the expensive food prices. 
• Be prepared for a potentially bumpy car ride to the hotel, or consider taking a boat from Cartagena. 
• Anticipate slow service in some areas, particularly during high occupancy periods or at the beach.

2# Playa Manglares: Lush vegetation & homemade food

For those seeking a serene, peaceful experience to relax in a natural setting, Playa Manglares is the place to be. With a private beach, warm and friendly staff, amazing show and delicious homemade food, you’ll find a relaxing and intimate atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

❌ What are the drawbacks? 

A word of warning: there’s no air conditioning, and you might encounter some bugs due to the natural setting. Also, the beach’s water isn’t as clear as other Caribbean locations, and the hotel’s remote location might limit dining options and make it harder to access popular beaches.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel?

Playa Manglares is all about lush nature, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful private beach. While the water may not be crystal clear, the beach’s hammocks and seating create a relaxing atmosphere.

🚗 How to get there from Cartagena? 

The hotel owner can suggest a car service to transport you to and from Cartagena for a reasonable price (about 1h). For specific directions, contact the hotel directly.

📍 Where: Facing the “lagoon”

Tips to improve your stay:

• Pack insect repellent and water shoes for the beach. 
• Take advantage of private day trips to Rosario Islands and the aviary for more activities. 
• Embrace the more rustic experience and accept the presence of bugs and creatures. 
• Manage your expectations regarding the beach and water clarity, as they may not be as pristine as other locations in the Caribbean.

3# Soy Local Baru: A crowded paradise on Playa Blanca

Picture this: a paradise beach experience in a somewhat less crowded part of Playa Blanca Beach, generous portions of mouthwatering food, and attentive staff cater to your every whim. That’s what Soy Local Baru offers! The beach is clean, with soft white sand, and comfy sunbeds and umbrellas are on the house for guests.

❌ What are the drawbacks? 

Okay, nobody’s perfect. You may miss in-room amenities like a fridge and clothing storage, and you might have to deal with some noise from generators and boats at night. The hotel’s remote location might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you crave more activities and nightlife. Oh, and beach vendors might get on your nerves sometimes.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel? 

The hotel’s location offers a picture-perfect view of the beach and its calm waters. The surroundings create a paradise atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy their stay fully. But remember that you’ll be in Playa Blanca. Be ready to share this paradise with many tourists and beach vendors.

🚗 How to get there from Cartagena? 

The hotel can hook you up with a taxi service from Cartagena or assist in finding transportation to the parking area. For specific directions, give the hotel a shout.

📍 Where: Playa Blanca

Tips to improve your stay:

• Bring a portable clothes hanger for storage, earplugs for noise reduction, and a SIM card for more reliable internet access. 
• Practice your polite “no, thank you” to deter beach vendors. 
• Don’t hesitate to communicate your food needs or preferences to the staff, as they’re known to be accommodating. 
• Lastly, pack your patience and understanding regarding minor inconveniences like shower pressure, as resource management can be challenging on the island.

4# Playa Surf Baru: still beautiful, still crowded

You should choose Playa Surf Baru for its exceptional beachfront location with turquoise waters, friendly and attentive staff, clean and comfortable rooms with sea views, and a quiet atmosphere during the night. The hotel offers a variety of food and drink options, as well as beach beds and umbrellas for guests.

❌ What are the drawbacks? 

Drawbacks include persistent street vendors on the beach, long wait times for food and drinks, and slightly overpriced menu items. The hotel’s location on booking platforms may need to be more accurate, and the Wi-Fi connection isn’t reliable. Additionally, the beach can get crowded during the high season, and you must keep an eye on their belongings due to the high number of people around.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel? 

The scenery around Playa Surf Baru is stunning, with spectacular beachfront views, clear turquoise waters, and rooms practically on the sea.

🚗 How to get there: 

1h drive from Cartagena.

📍 Where: Playa Blanca

Tips to improve your stay.

• Notify the hotel of your arrival in advance so they can assist with transportation and navigation. 
• Be prepared to deal with street vendors by learning to say no firmly. 
• Bring your own snacks or drinks to the beach to avoid overpriced options. 
• Keep an eye on your belongings while on the beach, and consider traveling during the low season to avoid crowds.

5# Aura Hotel: Family-friendly and noisy

Aura Hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a family-friendly atmosphere, delectable food, free kayaking, and attentive staff. The hotel provides a comfy and secure environment for children to frolic on the beach, and the air-conditioned rooms are a bonus in the area.

❌ What are the drawbacks? 

Some disadvantages include subpar shower quality, unclean shower water, mold, and a limited breakfast variety. The toilet flush doesn’t work well, and the Wi-Fi signal doesn’t reach all rooms. The hotel’s remote location means no dining options are nearby, and the restaurant can be pricey.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel? 

The hotel property is enveloped by greenery, creating a peaceful haven. However, the only sea view here is not as tropical as expected, and the beach is less than idyllic. The water isn’t turquoise, and the hotel is located near Cholon, known for its “party island,” which might cause noise disturbances.

🚗 How to get there from Cartagena de Indias? 

To reach Aura Hotel from Cartagena airport, expect a 1.5-hour car ride on bumpy roads.

📍 Where: In front of Isla Cholón

Tips to improve your stay:

• Bring your own bottled water since the hotel only offers small bottles.
• Be prepared for the mandatory tip on the invoice and the hotel’s policy on not consuming outside food and drinks.
• Consider staying only two nights if you’re seeking a more tropical beach experience, as the nearby sea is not ideal.
• Lastly, try to tolerate or embrace the nearby party atmosphere or plan your stay during less busy times to avoid noise disturbances.

6# Casa Cordoba Baru: Quiet, with a private beach and pool

Hotel Casa Cordoba Baru is a property perfect for those seeking a serene escape in a slightly off-the-beaten-path location. This charming hotel boasts a tranquil environment, roomy accommodations, air conditioning, and complimentary use of water sports equipment and games.

❌ What are the drawbacks? 

Some downsides include thin walls between rooms, potential issues with beds and bathroom facilities, and limited dining options due to the hotel’s secluded location. The beach is not your typical powdery white sand, and the sea doesn’t offer the crystal-clear blue water you might hope for.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel?

The hotel is nestled in a lovely garden by the sea, featuring a private beach and a quaint swimming pool. However, the beach has a blend of sand and stones, and the access road is in rough shape.

🚗 How to get there from Cartagena de Indias?

To reach Hotel Casa Cordoba Baru from Cartagena, book a taxi recommended by the hotel staff, as the access road’s poor condition might cause problems for some taxis. Check the road conditions before traveling, especially during the rainy season. The journey should take around 1h30.

📍 Where: South of Isla Barú, facing the “lagoon.”

Tips to improve your stay:

• Bring beach shoes to comfortably navigate the stony beach.
• If you’re concerned about privacy and noise, opt for one of the larger suites downstairs.
• Pack all the essentials you need since there aren’t any nearby shops.
• Prepare for limited dining options and potentially higher prices at the hotel’s restaurant.

7# Hotel Las Islas: The most luxurious option in Isla Barú

You should visit Las Islas for the unique tree-top bungalows with AC and spacious bathrooms, high-quality restaurant food, eco-friendly initiatives like seawater pools, and access to their private island with a picturesque beach.

❌ What are the drawbacks? 

Some drawbacks include slow service for requests (such as water delivery), lack of initial guidance on hotel amenities, and limited beach area at the main hotel. Also, mosquitoes can be bothersome.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel? 

The scenery is breathtaking, with tree-top bungalows nestled within mangroves, views of the Caribbean Sea, and a beautiful private island, Isleta, with an even nicer beach.

🚗 How to get there from Cartagena de Indias? 

Las Islas can be reached by a 1h30 drive from Cartagena, by boat (1h), or even by helicopter for a memorable arrival experience.

📍 Where: South of Isla Barú

Tips to improve your stay. 

• Pack mosquito repellent and clothing suitable for biking, as bikes are used for transport within the resort (you can call a golf cart too).
• Spend time on the private island, Isleta, for a superior beach experience. 
• Enjoy unique activities like the bioluminescent bay tour, astrotour, or Colombian cooking classes.

8# Isla del Encanto: A family-friendly resort

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing getaway in las Islas del Rosario, Isla del Encanto is your spot. Quiet atmosphere, comfortable accommodations, and huge pools make it perfect for couples and families alike. Plus, staff members are super friendly and attentive, so you’ll feel well taken care of during your stay.

❌ What are the drawbacks?

Heads up, the beach itself isn’t the most amazing you’ll ever see, and there are some limitations to the all-inclusive package. Drinks can be a bit pricey, and you might need to shell out extra for certain things. Also, the hotel can get a bit noisy on weekends due to nearby bars in the town of Baru.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel: 

The hotel is surrounded by lush greenery and clear waters, creating a chill and enjoyable atmosphere. While the beach might not be perfect, it’s still a nice spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty.

🚗 How to get there from Cartagena de indias: 

To reach the hotel Isla del Encanto from Cartagena, hop on a one-hour boat ride. The hotel can help arrange transportation, making getting there and back easy.

📍 Where: South of Isla Barú

Tips to improve your stay:

• Stock up on a few large water bottles before you go, as you’ll need to purchase them between meals.
• If the weekend noise is a concern, bring some earplugs or plan your stay during the week. 
• Don’t forget to enjoy the hotel’s free activities, like kayaking and paddle boarding, to make the most of your time there.

9# Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort: a remort paradise

Hotel Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort is perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat. With its stunning, almost-private beach, limited rooms, and dedicated staff, you’ll enjoy an exclusive experience, making a trip to it ideal for relaxation and quality time with loved ones.

❌ What are the drawbacks? 

Drawbacks include the lack of hot water in showers, limited food menu variety, and possible construction noise. Additionally, rooms might not be as modern or comfortable as you might expect.

🏖️ How is the scenery around the hotel?

The hotel offers a picturesque setting with a beautiful white-sand beach, clear turquoise waters, and lush greenery. The serene environment is perfect for enjoying sunsets, stargazing, and connecting with nature.

🚗 How to get there from Cartagena de Indias? 

To reach the hotel from the city of Cartagena, arrange land transportation (taxi or hotel van) to the town of Baru (1h30). Then, take a boat transfer from barú to the hotel (15 min). Hotel staff can help coordinate these arrangements for a seamless travel experience.

📍 Where: South of Isla Barú

Tips to improve your stay:

• Pack mosquito repellent to combat the afternoon insects
• Bring extra snacks and water, as on-site options might be limited and not complimentary
• Request ground-floor accommodations, particularly for Deluxe rooms, for improved convenience

Guide to Picking the Perfect Isla Baru Hotel

Before making a final decision, here is what you need to know about Isla Barú.

You should read the following article:

• Where to stay in the Rosario Islands.

Atmosphere

Remember to consider your preferences for serenity, eco-friendliness, luxury, or other factors when comparing most hotels.

Casa Cordoba Baru and Playa Manglares offer a serene and intimate atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility. Playa Manglares, in particular, is set in a lush natural setting, providing a relaxing and private beach experience.

Las Islas, on the other hand, stands out for its eco-luxury offerings, with unique tree-top bungalows and eco-friendly initiatives such as seawater pools. This hotel offers a more immersive experience with nature while maintaining a luxurious atmosphere. Las Islas is perfect for those who want to combine sustainability with high-end accommodations.

Sofitel Baru Calablanca is another example of a luxurious hotel on the island, boasting a modern design, multiple pools, and well-appointed rooms with ocean views. The hotel’s ambiance is relaxing and upscale, providing guests with a comfortable and lavish places to stay in.

In contrast, hotels like Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort and Playa Surf Baru focus on providing guests with an exclusive beach retreat featuring stunning beaches. These hotels are ideal for relaxation and spending quality time with loved ones in picturesque surroundings.

Beach Quality

As the hotels are spread across different parts of the island, the quality of their respective beaches varies.

Casa Cordoba Baru’s beach has a mix of sand and stones, and the sea is not as clear as one might expect from a Caribbean destination. In contrast, Soy Local Baru offers a clean beach with soft white sand, and Aura Hotel’s beach is well-maintained but can get crowded during peak times.

Isla del Encanto’s beach may not be the most amazing, but its serene environment and comfortable sunbeds make it a nice spot to unwind. Playa Manglares has a peaceful private beach, although the water may be murky and rocky. Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort boasts a stunning, almost-private beach with clear turquoise waters and lush greenery, ideal for relaxation and quality time with loved ones.

Las Islas offers a unique experience with its tree-top bungalows and a private island, Isleta, featuring a picturesque beach. Playa Surf Baru’s beachfront location provides spectacular views, clear turquoise waters, and comfortable rooms with sea views. Lastly, Sofitel Baru Calablanca’s beach is characterized by warm water and fine white sand, making it a top choice for those seeking a luxurious and relaxing beach experience.

Amenities

The Baru Island hotels offer a variety of facilities to cater to different travelers’ needs.

Casa Cordoba Baru’s amenities include a pool, kayaks, and bikes to help guests explore the surroundings. Aura Hotel’s amenities include a massage area, and beach club, making it a great choice for relaxation and leisure.

Isla del Encanto has a range of amenities, such as a pool, spa, and beach club, as well as offering unique experiences like a bioluminescent plankton tour. Playa Manglares, being a smaller and more intimate hotel, focuses on providing a serene, peaceful atmosphere with a private beach, hammocks, and homemade food. Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort has limited rooms and dedicated staff, providing an exclusive experience with a beautiful beach, although it lacks hot water in showers.

Las Islas stands out with its unique tree-top bungalows, seawater pools, and eco-friendly initiatives. The hotel also provides access to a private island with a picturesque beach. Playa Surf Baru offers comfortable rooms with sea views, a variety of food and drink options, and beach beds and umbrellas for guests. Lastly, Sofitel Baru Calablanca’s amenities include multiple pools, a well-equipped gym, a spa, and ocean-view rooms, providing a luxurious and relaxing experience.

Dining Options

The hotels on Baru Island offer a range of culinary experiences to suit different tastes.

Casa Cordoba Baru’s in-house chef prepares meals for guests, offering a personalized dining experience focusing on local flavors. Soy Local Baru has an on-site restaurant that provides a variety of dishes, including seafood and vegetarian options. Aura Hotel Baru’s restaurant, La Palma, serves local and international cuisine, focusing on seafood, ensuring guests have a diverse selection of meals.

Isla del Encanto’s restaurant offers local and international cuisine, including fresh seafood, along with a beach bar for refreshing cocktails. Playa Manglares is known for its delicious homemade food, prepared by the hotel’s warm and friendly staff. Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort has a limited food menu variety, which may not suit guests seeking extensive dining options.

Las Islas offers high-quality restaurant food, although the service can be slow. Playa Surf Baru provides various food and drink options, but you should be aware that the menu items can be slightly overpriced. Sofitel Baru Calablanca’s dining options are expensive, and the quality should be improved for the high prices. 

The hotel’s isolated location will restrict access to alternative dining options.

Location

Discover four unique areas on Baru Island, each with its own set of charms and challenges:

• Playa Blanca: This stunning beach boasts white sands and turquoise waters, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. However, it can get quite noisy and crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To escape the throngs of people, opt for a hotel with a private beach or a secluded area. Just be prepared for the persistent vendors and boats zipping by.
• The side facing the lagoon: If peace and quiet are what you’re after, this area is perfect for you. With its lush mangroves, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers. However, don’t expect to find a picture-perfect beach here – this area isn’t the best for swimming or sunbathing. Instead, consider staying in one of the eco-hotels offering kayaking or birdwatching activities.
• The side facing Isla Cholón: With clear water and sandy beaches, this area is a prime spot for relaxation. However, be aware that the nearby party island of Isla Cholón can be heard from 10 am to 4 pm daily, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• The South of the Island: For those seeking a remote and secluded, amazing experience, the south of Baru Island is the way to go. Private hotels and resorts with their own beachfront offer tranquility and activities like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Remember that you might hear some noise from the town of Baru on weekends, and you’ll need to arrange transportation from Cartagena de Indias.

Activities and Excursions

Isla Baru has something for everyone, no matter what kind of traveler you are. You’ll never run out of amazing things to do, from water sports to cultural experiences and nature-focused adventures.

• Water sports: Snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are widespread across the island. Hotels like Casa Cordoba Baru and Aura Hotel Baru make it easy for guests to explore the beautiful marine life and crystal-clear waters.
• Cultural experiences: Some hotels in the South offer opportunities to engage with the local community, providing a unique and authentic experience you won’t find in other Caribbean destinations.
• Nature-focused adventures: For nature lovers, Playa Manglares and Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort offer birdwatching, hiking through mangroves, and relaxing beach experiences. These serene settings allow guests to connect with and appreciate their surroundings.
• Unique offerings: Hotels like Las Islas provide one-of-a-kind activities such as bioluminescent bay tours, astrotours, and Colombian cooking classes. These exclusive experiences cater to travelers looking for something out of the ordinary.
• Proximity to the Rosario Islands: All hotels on Isla Baru are close to this popular local attraction, making day trips and boat tours easily accessible for guests.

Service Quality

While service quality can vary among the hotels in Isla Baru, the friendly and attentive staff is one constant. 

Smaller hotels like Playa Manglares and Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort receive high praise for their warm and welcoming staff, who go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for their guests. 

However, some larger hotels, like Las Islas and Sofitel Baru Calablanca, occasionally struggle with service speed and efficiency. 

That said, overall, Isla Baru’s hotels have a reputation for friendly and attentive service that enhances guests’ stays.

Transportation

Getting to and from Isla Baru’s popular hotels alone can be an adventure in itself. With the island’s north connected to the mainland by a bridge, travelers typically have two primary transportation options: land transportation followed by a boat transfer or a direct boat ride from Cartagena de indias.

• Direct boat ride: Luxury resorts like Las Islas and Sofitel Baru Calablanca provide exclusive boat transfers from Cartagena or even helicopter services for an unforgettable arrival experience. Although faster and more enjoyable, weather conditions may affect boat transfers, especially during windy seasons.
• Personalized car service: Some hotels, like Playa Manglares, have owners who can recommend a car service to and from Cartagena at a reasonable price. This ensures a comfortable journey, even if it takes a bit longer.

Regardless of your chosen method, be prepared for potential challenges like rough, unpaved roads or choppy seas, depending on the season. Communicate with your hotel staff to coordinate the best transportation arrangements for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

👉 Want to know everything about Cartagena? To learn where are the best places, and avoid tourist traps and beginner’s mistakes? Nothing could be easier. I put it all together in our guide to Cartagena de Indias.

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