Best Beaches In Cartagena (+ Beach Clubs)
Editeur
Last updated
Dreaming of basking on the finest beaches in Cartagena? With white sand, a turquoise sea, and palm trees? Be careful; they’re not all like that!
Don’t worry; I know them all after several months of living between the Rosario Islands and Cartagena. This guide will help you find your perfect spot and show you how to enjoy it fully—the simplest way? Rent a boat!
Edit 07/2024: We’ve completely redesigned this article.
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The most beautiful beaches in Cartagena
For making smart choices quickly and effortlessly.
Public
TPMT note: 7.5/10
Playa Libre
Where: Isla Grande
Charm: 4/5
It’s a pretty beach with free access, but it’s tiny.
Playa Libre (Playa Mantas) is the only free-access beach on the island. It’s perfect for those who don’t want to be forced to buy something or pay an entry fee to a beach club or accommodation establishment to take a swim.
It’s small but beautiful, with white sand and clear, calm waters. The beach is well-maintained, and there are trees where you can nap in the shade.
Locals enjoy this beach, especially during the weekends.
The beach gets crowded fast when boats bring in day-trippers, particularly on weekends.
Playa Libre is accessible by boat from Cartagena (1 hour) and by foot from Orika, the village (20 minutes).
If you’re staying on the island, I recommend arriving early (around 8 – 9 a.m.) before the day-trippers arrive. It’s generally better to visit on a weekday.
© Tomplanmytrip
Fiesta
TPMT note: 7.5/10
Isla Cholon
Where: Isla Cholon
Charm: 4/5
The island of fun-loving travelers.
Isla Cholon is located off the north coast of Isla Barú.
There’s no white sand here, just straw huts on stilts in clear water, dozens of yachts and speedboats anchored up, and lots of people in swimming costumes, waist-deep in water, sipping cocktails and dancing in the sun.
Imagine the scene in the hustle and bustle of reggaeton music and a mess of vendors weaving in and out of tourists with their boats loaded with drinks and seafood.
I’m not a fan, but it’s a great way to spend a few festive hours with friends and mingle with the Colombians who love this destination.
The site is beautiful, and a thick mangrove forest covers the island, but it’s somewhat denatured and very noisy.
I think the prices are excessive.
If you want to party with your friends without spending too much, choose a friendly beach club in Tierra Bomba, like Amare Beach Club.
You can go and party on Isla Cholon by boat from Cartagena (45 mins).
You can also hire a private boat with your friends to take you around the Rosario islands and stop off at Isla Cholon.
© Tomplanmytrip
Alternative
TPMT note: 7/10
Playa Tranquila
Where: Isla Baru
Charm: 4/5
A relative calm and a few rocks on the beach.
Playa Tranquila is a beach next to Playa Blanca. It’s quieter, especially during the week, as it’s further away from the car park.
So it’s an option if you’re here for a few hours and don’t want the hustle and bustle of Playa Blanca.
Beach restaurants often have “special prices for tourists.”
At certain times of the day, there is a lot of boat traffic, with tourists embarking and disembarking in a somewhat chaotic manner, which can disrupt swimming.
There are rocks on the beach and in the water, so bringing beach shoes is advisable.
If you really want to avoid crowds, head to Bahia de Barbacoas, which is on the opposite side of Isla Barú.
Once on Playa Blanca, with the sea in front of you, head right until you find a path in poor condition that will take you to Playa Tranquila (25 min).
Crowded
TPMT note: 6.5/10
Playa Blanca
Where: Isla Baru
Charm: 4/5
Dream Beach and mass tourism.
With its long stretch of pristine white sand, stunning turquoise waters, and coconut palms, Playa Blanca on Isla Barú is a picture-postcard Caribbean beach.
But if you’re looking for peace, it’s not for you.
Although still serene a few years ago, it has become the busiest beach in the Rosario archipelago. It is invaded by tourists coming for the day, vendors of all kinds, jet skis, and deafening music.
Its waters run deep quickly, so be careful if you come with kids.
Playa Blanca has lost much of its charm and tranquility. It is even more packed in the afternoons and at weekends, and the overcrowding causes pollution problems.
Prices are high, and you’re constantly approached by street vendors who often try to rip you off.
If you want a more peaceful setting, head for Playa Tranquila, next door.
Playa Blanca is accessible without booking an excursion. Just take a taxi from Cartagena via the bridge over the Canal del Dique (1 hr). I suggest you get there as early as possible.
You can also choose to come by speedboat from the port of Cartagena (30 min).
Staying in a hotel close to the beach is the only way to enjoy a few hours of peace on Playa Blanca, in my opinion.
Peaceful
TPMT note: 6.5/10
Barbacoas Bay
Where: Isla Baru
Charm: 3/5
No tourists and no street vendors.
Just opposite Playa Blanca on Isla Barú is Barbacoas Bay (Bahia de Barbacoas).
The water here is more blue-green, and the beaches are made partly of dead coral reef debris and pebbles. But there are no people and no street vendors! It’s the perfect option if you’re escaping the hustle and bustle of Playa Blanca.
If you come for the day, you can have lunch at the Playa Manglares Hotel restaurant, where the food is excellent.
It’s not a beach paradise here. There is no white sand, and the water is murky due to the nearby river mouths. I’d also advise you to take beach shoes as there are many bits of coral and small stones.
If you like long stretches of sand without tourists, you can choose the beach at Manzanillo del Mar to the north of Cartagena, but you won’t get the island atmosphere.
Barbacoas Bay can be reached by taxi from Cartagena (1h).
© Tomplanmytrip
Family
TPMT note: 6/10
Laguito & Castillogrande
Where: Cartagena
Charm: 3/5
A quieter atmosphere for a family bath.
I prefer Laguito Beach to Bocagrande Beach, even if it’s nothing extraordinary because it’s less busy and the view from the beach towards Tierra Bomba is prettier.
It’s a good spot to come and watch the sun go down, drink a cocktail, and admire the kitesurfers performing their skills at Punta las Velas.
Castillogrande Beach is even better. It’s the least crowded of Cartagena’s beaches. It is vast, and its calm waters are perfect for a family day out, especially with young children.
You can move away from the area occupied by sun loungers and tents for hire and put your towel down on the sand without being bothered. The street vendors are not intrusive.
An urban backdrop, grey sand, and unclear waters are not the beaches you dream of in the Caribbean, but they are the best options for a swim not far from Cartagena.
The less urbanized setting of Manzanillo del Mar Beach to the north of Cartagena is a quiet alternative for families, but you’ll be farther from the city.
Laguito Beach is accessible by taxi from the historic center (15 mins).
Castillogrande is 5 minutes further on.
© Tomplanmytrip
Huge
TPMT note: 5.5/10
Manzanillo Beach
Where: North Cartagena
Charm: 2.5/5
A long, quiet beach with ocean-facing flats.
A bit further north of La Boquilla lies Manzanillo del Mar, another fishing village.
Its beach is a long stretch of dark sand, with water perfect for swimming and a calm, relaxed atmosphere. With very few facilities, there is little traffic and no street vendors. It’s a great option if you’ve chosen to stay with your family in one of the all-inclusive hotels in the area and want to avoid the crowds and the inconvenience that goes with them.
You can enjoy various activities here, including kitesurfing, paddle boarding, and horse riding.
A bit further south, Playa de Oro is even more authentic.
You’ll be far from the historic center, and there is little to do in the surrounding area.
If you want to be closer to the sights of Cartagena without getting too crowded, you can also opt for Castillogrande Beach, even though it’s more urban.
To get to Manzanillo del Mar Beach, take a taxi from the historic center (30 – 40 min).
If you want to save money, you can take a bus from Cartagena to La Boquilla and finish the journey by taxi.
Local
NotTPMT note: 5/10
Punta Arena Beach
Where: Tierra Bomba
Charm: 2.5/5
A popular beach overlooking skyscrapers.
Playa Arena is on the north coast of Tierra Bomba, an island 15 minutes by boat from Cartagena. It faces Bocagrande, with its skyscrapers visible from your deckchair.
This is the island’s most attractive beach, with small bars lining the shore, colorful chairs, and palapas. The sand is blond rather than white, and the waters are not turquoise.
There is much energy here, especially at weekends, which may not be to the liking of those seeking peace.
Playa Arena is on the island’s central axis and is constantly busy with locals on motorbikes.
The water can be murky, and the sea may wash up rubbish.
It is very busy at weekends and the end of the day.
Prices tend to go up if you don’t speak Spanish, and there are many street vendors.
For more peace and quiet and a less urban feel, head south to Tierra Bomba. There are beach clubs with good facilities for a bit of privacy.
The best way is to take a boat from a beach club in Cartagena. You can also take one of the boats that leave every morning from the Bocagrande Hospital beach.
I advise you to come in the morning and avoid weekends
© Tomplanmytrip
Easy
TPMT note: 5/10
Bocagrande Beach
Where: Cartagena
Charm: 2.5/5
A Caribbean Miami at the feet of the city walls.
Bocagrande Beach has the advantage of being the closest beach to Cartagena’s historic center. It is located in a modern district of the same name.
It is very popular, especially with Colombians, because of its easy access. With its many buildings, it has a touch of Miami about it.
The water is not the clearest, and the crowded beach is overrun with colorful plastic chairs, velum stretched out to protect from the sun, and plenty of street vendors.
There is a hubbub of music blasting from the loudspeakers.
It certainly has a certain authenticity, but it’s not my idea of a dream Caribbean beach.
The beach is in a residential area, with skyscrapers lining the horizon.
The street vendors here can be incredibly pushy.
Everything has a price, including your spot on the sand, and it’s all pretty expensive. Plus, they don’t always tell you the cost upfront, trying to scam you.
The beaches of Laguito and Castillogrande offer quieter alternatives with fewer crowds and vendors.
Reaching Bocagrande is simple; grab a taxi from the historic district, and you’ll arrive in about 10 minutes.
If you’re staying in Bocagrande, it’s a short walk away.
© Tomplanmytrip
Kitesurf
TPMT note: 4/10
La Boquilla Beach
Where: Cartagena
Charm: 2/5
An authentic beach perfect for kitesurfing but not great for swimming.
La Boquilla is a fishing village to the north of Cartagena.
The beach in La Boquilla blends local life with lodging establishments areas, with very few tourists and almost no street vendors. It’s a peaceful, gray-brown sand beach, still preserving its authentic feel. Tourist infrastructure is minimal, with just a few small restaurants offering grilled fish.
This beach is a solid spot for kitesurfing, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. A great kitesurfing school is located just south of the village.
The water is somewhat murky and not very inviting for swimming. I prefer coming here to fish with the locals or to take a canoe trip through the mangroves early in the morning.
Be aware that they might try to scam you when you pay for your grilled fish, claiming an extra charge for the service. Always confirm the price before ordering.
If you want to swim while kitesurfing, head to the Manzanillo del Mar beach, a little further north along the coast.
You can reach La Boquilla beach by taxi from the historic center in about 20 minutes.
© Las Americas Torres de Mar
Cartagena Beach clubs & private beachs
For making smart choices quickly and effortlessly.
Cozy
TPMT note: 9.5/10
Pa’ue Beach Lounge
Where: Isla Grande
Charm: 5/5
A stylish yet calm vibe.
Pa’ue Beach Lounge is at the northeast corner of the island. It offers a stunning setting with white sand beaches and vibrant turquoise waters.
The spot is peaceful and well-kept, with friendly staff eager to tell you about the local culture. The cozy atmosphere is ideal for unwinding, and there is an adult-only section for couples looking for a romantic vibe.
The lounge is known for its delicious food, such as garlic shrimp and calamari, and refreshing cocktails, like the Piña Colada. They even offer free kayak rentals.
Prices remain expensive, and services like towel loans or shower access should be included.
If you’re looking for lower prices, try Sol y Papaya, though the vibe will be less refined.
You can purchase the day pass from the hotel and take their boat from the La Bodeguita pier in Cartagena. You can also arrive by private boat or on foot if you stay on the island.
© Pa’ue Beach Lounge
Beautiful
TPMT note: 9.5/10
Rosario de Mar
Where: Isla Grande
Charm: 5/5
An ideal spot for swimming.
Rosario de Mar, previously known as Gente de Mar, is a hotel and restaurant at the island’s eastern end.
The hotel has two of Cartagena’s most stunning beaches: soft sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, trees, and breathtaking views. Since each beach faces a different direction, you can choose between them to avoid the wind or pick based on crowd size.
It features top-notch beach facilities, including loungers, a bar, and a volleyball court.
The staff is attentive, and the food is delicious, offering traditional fish dishes and tasty pizzas.
Pa’ue Beach Lounge offers a more private beach, which is also gorgeous, with fabulous watercolors.
You can purchase the day pass from the hotel and take their boat from the La Bodeguita pier in Cartagena. You can also arrive by private boat or on foot if you stay on the island.
© Tomplanmytrip
Family
TPMT note: 9/10
Isabela
Where: Isla Grande
Charm: 5/5
A charming place with excellent service.
Islabela is a small eco-hotel on Isleta, across from Isla Grande.
If you’re visiting for the day, you can enjoy its main beach, featuring comfortable lounge chairs, some designed for two, shaded by a clever arrangement of draped canopies.
This is where I most appreciated the well-managed day pass system and the beachside service for orders. Plus, the prices are reasonable, and the staff is qualified and friendly.
The day pass includes access to the hotel’s kayaks.
The food and cocktails are nothing special.
They tend to play the music a bit too loud during peak hours when day tourists are around.
There are pieces of coral reef debris on the beach, so it’s better to wear water shoes when going into the water.
If you’re looking for a stunning sandy beach, I recommend visiting Rosario de Mar.
Isleta is a tiny island located 10 minutes by boat from Isla Grande. You can purchase a day pass, arrive on the hotel’s boat, or hire a private boat from Cartagena.
To fully enjoy Islabela, I recommend staying for two nights. You’ll stay in a bungalow with a private beach and experience the tranquility after the day visitors have gone.
© Tomplanmytrip
Affordable
TPMT note: 9/10
Sol y Papaya
Where: Isla Grande
Charm: 5/5
A chill vibe at a reasonable price.
Sol y Papaya, located on the north coast of Isla Grande, offers a laid-back vibe.
The beach setup is cozy, prices are some of the most affordable on the island, and the staff doesn’t push you to overconsume.
At the foot of the restaurant, you’ll find a lovely, well-maintained beach with stunning views of the turquoise sea.
Sol y Papaya serves traditional cuisine, but the menu is limited, and service can be slow.
The restrooms aren’t always very clean.
If you want a more romantic atmosphere, go for Pa’ue Beach Lounge, though prices are higher. Sabai, with its exclusive setting, is another intimate option.
Sol y Papaya is close to Playa Libre and just a 15-minute walk from the village.
© Tomplanmytrip
Luxury
TPMT note: 9/10
Acasi
Where: Isla Baru
Charm: 5/5
A stunning environment with top-notch amenities.
Acasi, on Isla Barú, is the private beach of the 5-star Casa San Agustin hotel in Cartagena’s historic center, known for its colonial charm. The atmosphere is serene and enchanting.
Everything is handled for you, with the highly skilled staff offering top-notch service. You can even request a swimming stop during the boat ride.
The beach amenities are fantastic, the food is exquisite, and you’ll have access to hammocks, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment.
This is the perfect spot to unwind after something stressful, like wedding preparations or celebrating a special occasion.
There’s not much to complain about with Acasi, except perhaps that you can’t choose your departure or return times—and it’s a costly excursion.
If you enjoy intimate settings and great food, you’ll also appreciate Pa’ue Beach Lounge.
To enjoy Acasi beach, stay overnight at the Casa San Agustin hotel and inform the reception, who will arrange your day excursion.
© Acasi
Hidden
TPMT note: 9/10
Sabai
Where: Isla Baru
Charm: 5/5
A beautiful natural setting perfect for unplugging.
Sabai, also known as Baru Playa Eco Beach Resort, is a remote hotel at the southwestern tip of Isla Barú.
Surrounded by gorgeous nature, the hotel offers a calm, zen atmosphere with spectacular sunsets. It’s rarely crowded with day visitors, making it an ideal spot for unwinding.
The newly renovated facilities are impressive, with comfortable sun loungers and a large freshwater pool. The staff is attentive, and the food is fantastic especially the ceviche.
The hotel is a bit remote, and the prices are expensive.
The beach is beautiful, but the rocks can make swimming difficult. You’ll need to walk a bit to find the sandy section, and there can be some seaweed.
If you enjoy luxurious and intimate atmospheres, you might prefer the beach at Acasi, but you’ll need to spend the night at the Casa San Agustin Hotel in Cartagena.
You can come to Sabai Beach with a day package or by taking a private boat from Cartagena (1 hour), though you’ll still need to pay an access fee to use the facilities.
© Sabai
Quality/price
TPMT note: 9/10
Amare Beach Club
Where: Tierra Bomba
Charm: 3/5
The perfect combo for a fun beach day.
Amare Beach Club is on the northwest coast of Tierra Bomba on Playa Linda, a lovely beach.
The atmosphere is laid-back, focusing on the essentials: delicious cocktails, great food (with vegetarian options), and good music that isn’t too loud. All of this at a very reasonable price, even on weekends. It’s everything I love!
The staff is well-organized and helpful, your day pass includes a lounge chair, and you can leave your belongings without worrying about theft.
There’s a lap pool for cooling off, and the beach is perfect for a swim in the sea.
Some might get tired of the Reggaeton beats, but hey, you’re in the Caribbean!
And it’s sometimes (often) quiet during the week.
Blue Apple Beach Club on Tierra Bomba, with its lovely pool area and friendly vibe, is another good option, but you’ll pay more.
You can opt for the day package. The club’s boat will pick you up in the morning at the Bocagrande port (just 15 minutes away), with three departure times available. You can also come by private boat.
© Amare
Trendy
TPMT note: 9/10
Blue Apple Beach
Where: Tierra Bomba
Charm: 4/5
A great vibe around a beautiful pool.
Blue Apple Beach, set on the southwest coast of Tierra Bomba, offers a scenic location.
You can choose between the day package or the transport + entry deal.
The facilities are charming, albeit slightly older, and have a gorgeous pool area. The food is fantastic, including vegetarian options and the music is diverse and enjoyable.
The staff is well-organized and very attentive, particularly regarding transport arrangements. The vibe is lively but always pleasant, with a good mix of activities and weekend events.
The beach, a bit small, is a 3-minute walk from the hotel. It’s not great, but it’s one of the better ones on Tierra Bomba. You’re better off staying by the pool.
While the experience is worth it, it’s still expensive, especially if you opt for just the transport + entry package.
Street vendors tend to approach you from the other side of the fence.
For better value, you can head to Amare Beach Club while staying on Tierra Bomba.
If you get the day pass or the boat + entry ticket, the hotel’s boat will take you there.
© Blue Apple Beach
Resort
TPMT note: 8.5/10
Isla del Encanto
Where: Isla Baru
Charm: 4.5/5
A charming spot for a fun family day.
Isla del Encanto is a cozy establishment on the southern coast of Isla Barú. Surrounded by vegetation, it exudes a charming atmosphere. The hotel has a lovely private beach with shallow waters, perfect for a peaceful swim. The beach facilities are pleasant, and there’s also a pool.
Although the restaurant menu doesn’t offer many options, the dishes are healthy and made with fresh ingredients. The staff is helpful.
You can enjoy free activities like kayaking.
It’s an excellent option for a relaxing beach day with the family.
The beach is small, and the water isn’t always very clear (not the best side of the island).
It’s mostly peaceful, except for weekends when the noise from the nearby town of Barú can be disturbing.
For a family stay, consider Islabela on Isleta, which has a similarly charming atmosphere, better value, and much more transparent waters.
You can purchase a day pass or arrive by boat (1 hour) or taxi (1.5 hours) from Cartagena.
Party
TPMT note: 8/10
Bora Bora Beach Club
Where: Isla Grande
Charm: 5/5
To have fun by the water while feeling like a VIP.
Bora Bora is located on the southern coast of Isla Grande. The beach isn’t very large but beautiful and offers a stunning view.
Before boarding at the Bocagrande port, you choose between two packages: the “normal” and the VIP. A third area with a pool is reserved for hotel guests. Children are not allowed.
There’s a festive “Caribbean luxury” atmosphere, especially in the VIP area with white canopy double beds. The club offers various activities.
The staff is attentive, the food is good, though nothing extraordinary, and the playlist is quite varied and enjoyable.
It’s expensive, and many services have additional costs, which can quickly raise the price for the day. Be sure to bring cash.
The reef debris makes entering the water difficult, so wearing beach shoes is better.
Transportation for the return trip is a bit early and can sometimes be disorganized.
For a more laid-back atmosphere and better value for money, choose Amare Beach Club on Tierra Bomba.
The hotel’s boat handles transfers from Bocagrande (a 45-minute ride). You can also arrive by private boat.
© Bora Bora
Best Beaches In Cartagena (+ Beach Clubs)
Now that you have a good overview of Cartagena’s beaches and beach clubs, you probably want to learn more about the surrounding areas and better understand where they are located.
A few practical tips may help you prepare for your day on a beach in Cartagena and ensure you leave with unforgettable memories.
TOM’S TIP
Discover the other stunning beaches of Colombia.
Where are the beaches in Cartagena
A brief explanation of the different atmospheres and islands nearby.
Isla Grande
Isla Grande is the main island of the Rosario Archipelago, located one hour by boat from Cartagena.
For me, it’s the paradise island we all dream of.
You can explore it on foot, wandering along shaded trails through beautiful tropical vegetation and discovering superb spots for sunbathing. However, hotels and beach clubs privatize most beaches.
Its turquoise, crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and exploring the coral reef.
There’s a good selection of eco-hotels and budget accommodations. I love spending the night on Isla Grande to fully enjoy its tranquil atmosphere once the day tourists have left.
Isla Barú
Isla Barú can be reached by land (via the bridge over the Canal del Dique) or by sea (1 – 1.5 hours).
It’s the most visited island in the archipelago due to its easy access and the famous Playa Blanca. I prefer the south of the island. The sand isn’t as white and delicate, but you can find more authentic and peaceful spots.
Isla Barú is also home to the beautiful National Aviary of Colombia and a stunning mangrove.
For accommodations, the closest hotels to Cartagena are on the island’s north coast; for a budget alternative, you’ll find options around Playa Blanca, though they are pretty basic.
To the south, Cholón Bay is magnificent, but you might be bothered by the noise from the lively Isla Cholón.
The best hotels with private beaches are located at the island’s southern tip.
In the city of CartagenA
Just steps away from Cartagena‘s historic center, the beaches of Bocagrande, Laguito, and Castillogrande are all set in a modern urban environment with tall buildings and gray sand. Castillogrande is the quietest of the three. The atmosphere here is rather noisy and chaotic, with many tourists and street vendors constantly soliciting you and often charging inflated prices.
Bocagrande offers an interesting and economical option if you’re looking for a comfortable apartment for a family or group stay. Modern Cartagena also hosts large resorts, some of which are high-standard and have magnificent views.
For a more authentic atmosphere, not far from Cartagena, La Boquilla (20 minutes by taxi) is a peaceful fishing village surrounded by beautiful mangroves. Several good hotel resorts are in the area.
near Cartagena
While still close to Cartagena (40 minutes away), Manzanillo Beach offers a much less urban atmosphere. The coastline features long stretches of sand lined with vegetation and open towards the ocean. It’s much quieter and has a more pleasant setting than the newer districts of Cartagena.
In the background, there’s a good selection of apartment hotels and all-inclusive resorts at great value.
Tierra Bomba, just a 15-minute boat ride from Bocagrande, has a more lively atmosphere with its beach clubs. The north coast offers urban views of modern Cartagena, while the south coast provides a more pleasant seascape.
Accommodations are available on Tierra Bomba, but there are fewer options, and the setting is less idyllic than the Rosario Islands.
the San Bernardo archipelago
The beaches of the San Bernardo Islands are not included in this list because they are too far from Cartagena for a day trip (2.5 hours by boat).
Isla Tintipan and Isla Mucura are the two main islands of the archipelago. Less known and therefore less crowded than the Rosario Islands, they are equally paradisiacal with stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Wilder, Isla Tintipan is home to the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago.
Days here are spent swimming, napping, enjoying cocktails by the water, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and witnessing spectacular sunsets.
You can find charming hotels in idyllic spots for a romantic getaway and friendly hotels for a family or group stay. Prices tend to be higher.
Beach tips
A bit about the weather and how to best avoid scams.
the seasons
It’s hot and humid year-round in Cartagena (average 28°C). The rainiest months are April-May and September-October, though showers are typically brief.
The sunniest months are December to April and July to August, with a slight temperature drop from December to February.
Winds blow from October to April, predominantly in the afternoons, bringing relief from the heat, but the sea is rough, making sea travel choppy.
During high season (mid-December to mid-January, Holy Week, and June school holidays), tourists flock in, and prices soar. Weekends and holidays are also very crowded.
scams
When there are tourists, there are scams of all kinds.
Never purchase without confirming the price beforehand. Whether it’s from a street vendor, a beach chair rental, a drink, or a taxi (especially taxis without meters in Cartagena).
Prices can suddenly increase when they realize you don’t speak Spanish. Learn a few basic phrases.
Sometimes, you’re quoted one price, but the bill is inflated, or the tip is excessive. Check the bill before paying. If paying with cash, verify your change. It’s easy to lose track of all the bills.
Credit card fraud also exists (card skimmed multiple times). Keep an eye on your card at all times.
Keep an eye on your belongings at the beach and leave valuables and documents at your hotel. Dressing modestly can attract less attention.
Lastly, be wary of abnormally cheap excursions, especially those offered on the street.
Favorite experiences in Cartagena
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A comfortable and luxurious tailor-made boat trip to enjoy the most stunning islands of the Rosario Archipelago.
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Cartagena: the fascinating history of San Basilio de Palenque 1d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary cultural heritage of the first free village in the Americas.
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Tom & Adrien
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Thanks, great tips. Will plan to get on the islands then =)
Thanks mate! Have fun 🙂
i AM LOOKING FOR A 1 WEEK TO 10 DAY HOLIDAY. I LOVE THE WATER AND WOULD PREFER AN ALL-INCLUSIVE 4 STAR ENVIRONMENT BUT WOULD NOT TRADE THAT FOR FILTHY WATER. CARTEGENA APPEALS TO ME AS A DESTINATION AS A TOURIST BUT IF THE WEATHER OR THE WATER IS NOT SUITABLE I WOULD CHOSE SOMEWHERE ELSE.
Hey Michael,
If you like 4 starts Environment + Nice water, I will advise you to stay in Rodadero (near Santa Marta) and one of the nice hotels between Tayrona And Palomino ( Like villa Maria Tayrona :)).
But you can still organize a 2-3 days trip to Cartagena 😉
Are these places open for tourism right now? Specificity beaches and restaurants?
Hi Zamira. It’s complicated to tell as it changes all the time. From what I know, yes. But I’m not in Cartagena right now. I can’t guarantee it. If you plan to stay overnight, I advise you to send a text before booking your stay.
Great website, Tom!
What is your best recommendation for a middle aged couple who really wants to avoid vendors and loud partiers and just enjoy a beautiful quite beach in a hammock, swimming and snorekeling. Anywhere near Santa Marta or Cartagena is fine.
So, I’m not impressed by the snorkeling in on the Caribbean coast in Colombia. My favorite beach town near Cartagena is Rincon del Mar. From Santa Marta, you can take a cool boat tour to visit Playa Cinto or you can decide to stay around the beach town of Buritaca 🙂