Marjolein Dilven
Have you put San Andres Island, Colombia, in your itinerary? Good for you if you want to enjoy the sand, sea, and sun in one of the best beach destinations. Read this article before you start packing for the time of your life in San Andres Colombia.
One of the must-visit cities in Colombia, San Andres has world-class diving spots, around 40 snorkeling sites, pristine beaches, and unique Afro-Caribbean culture.
The beautifully mystical island of San Andres is located in the western Caribbean. The island is tiny in size, but one cannot help being amazed by the sheer beauty of the island with its beautiful beaches and tropical plantations.
Declared as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2000, this Seaflower Marine Protected Area is an oceanic archipelago spread over 25,096 square miles (65,000 square kilometers) and teeming with over 100 coral species, 150 birds, and 400 fish.
Continue reading to learn how to get to, what to do, where to stay, and what tips to consider when planning a trip to San Andres.
How To Get to San Andres, Colombia?
San Andres is located at a distance of almost 124 miles (200 km) from the Nicaraguan coast and around 444 miles (715 km) from the mainland. If you want to get to the island, the only way is to fly, as boats do not provide services on the long route.
Whether you want to get to San Andres from Cartagena, Bogota, Medellin, or Cali, you can easily find domestic flights that will take you directly to the Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport in San Andres. There are non-direct flights offered in some seasons with layovers in Panama or Bogota.
10 Best Things To Do in San Andres, Colombia
Island hopping is one of the most popular tourist activities on an island or beach destination. San Andres is home to some of the most remarkably charming coastal areas, sand bars, and cays.
There are multiple island hopping tours from San Andres that you can opt for to see beautiful coral reefs, cays, and sandy beaches:
- Full Day Private Boat Charter in San Andrés Bay
- Full Day Marine Tour in San Andres
- Bahia Tour, Snorkeling, and Bathing Stops in San Andres Islands
Depending on the length of your stay, there is a lot you can see and do in San Andres in addition to island hopping. Here are the 10 best activities you can consider when visiting San Andres.
1. Explore the Johnny Cay Natural Regional Park
The Johnny Cay Natural Regional Park is one of the biggest tourist attractions in San Andres. Johnny Cay is a beautiful tropical island that you can access from Spratt Bight, the main beach in San Andres.
The island is beautiful, with pristine blue water, soft white sandy beaches, and tall coconut palm trees. A trip to the Regional Park will cost you around 15,000 Colombian Pesos (COP) or $3.37.\
2. Tour El Acuario and Haynes Cay
El Acuario and Haynes Cay are two tiny isles located on the eastern coast of San Andres, also accessible from Spratt Bight via boat. While they are included in island hopping tours, you can also go there by yourself if you prefer.
There are beautiful coral reefs in the vicinity, so the place is great for snorkeling and swimming. El Acuario is popularly known as a sandbar island with pristine water on all sides. It also has a few bars and restaurants.
Haynes Cay, slightly larger, is just 328 feet (100 meters) ahead of El Acuario, and if you want to hop from one island to the next, you can just wade through the water. Unlike El Acuario, Haynes has some plantations in the form of palm trees and vegetation.
3. Explore the Botanical Garden
The Jardin Botanico de San Andres, or the botanical gardens, are located north of San Luis on a road that leads to La Loma. The garden is home to numerous plant species from the Caribbean region.
You can also get a panoramic view of San Andres Island from a certain viewpoint. The ticket price is 7,000 COP ($1.59) if you are a local. However, the entrance ticket will cost you 10,000 COP ($2.27) if you are a foreigner.
4. Take a Trip to Cueva de Morgan
Next activity on our list of recommendations is the Cueva de Morgan or Morgan’s Cave. A trip to this cave and amusement park is highly recommended if you are traveling with family and have small kids. You will find a replica of a ship and characters dressed up in pirate costumes. The entrance ticket for one person will cost you 15,000 COP ($3.37).
5. Go Scuba Diving
As one of the world’s most popular scuba diving destinations, we highly recommend trying the activity if you love water-based adventure. San Andres features many great diving sites, beautiful marine life, and vibrant coral reefs. In some sites, the visibility goes as deep as 115 feet (35 m).
It is a great place to explore the waters or get your scuba diving license. The rates are reasonable as you can do your PADI Discover Scuba Diving (PADI DSD) course for around 270,000 COP ($60).
If you already have a diving license, you can enjoy browsing through plenty of shops along the west coast and within the town.
6. See The Sea of Seven Colors
You may have gotten a glimpse of the beautiful ocean hues while flying to San Andres. If not, you can take a boat tour around the island to see the changing shades of the water ranging from blue to green, with shades emanating from the coral reefs under the water.
San Andres is surrounded by shallow coral waters with beautiful colors that are more visible on the eastern and northern sides. The sight is rare and not to be missed, as not many places can boast of having a sea of seven colors.
7. Go Parasailing
Another water-based activity that many tourists like to do is parasailing. You will find plenty of action along the east coast at reasonable prices, as one stint will cost you around 290,000 COP ($65.23). Try it if you like an adventure.
You might just see the sea of seven colors from the top.
8. Explore the San Andres Mangrove Reserve
The Parque Nacional Manglares, or the Mangrove Reserve in San Andres, is in the South of the main town area. You can take a guided kayak trip to explore the mangrove reserve in detail. You can easily view the entrance to the reserve from the road.
You will find it on your right if you are driving to the town from San Luis.
9. Check Out the El Hoyo Soplador
The El Hoyo Soplador is a small blowhole located on the southern shore of the area and a popular tourist attraction. The hole may be small but goes up into the sky when the water explodes.
If you want to witness the sight, visit when it is high tide. The place can also get crowded during rush hours, and you may have to wait to get your turn to stand above the hole.
The place also features small cafes and a restaurant.
10. Enjoy Parque West View
While the eastern coast features some amazing beaches, the west coast is also known for its tranquil waters. So, if you plan to explore that side, take a detour to the Eco Parque West View. Its beautiful pristine water is perfect for swimming and jumping.
The entrance to the West View is for 4,000 COP ($0.90) per person.
Where to Stay in San Andres, Colombia?
If you are traveling to San Andres for the first time, choosing the right neighborhood to stay in is important to make the most out of your experience. Here are our top three picks.
San Andres Bay
San Andres Bay is inarguably the best area to stay in San Andres. It’s one of the busiest and most entertaining places, with numerous beaches, shopping avenues, souvenir shops, and vibrant nightlife. It also features the Spratt Bight and Cocoplum viewpoints, the most popular attractions of San Andres.
That being said, there are various accommodation options on the island. Here are a few recommendations.
- Apartment accommodation: Tourist Accommodation Titanic or Alojamientos Turisticos Titanic is highly recommended if you are on a budget. It is located 1,312 ft (400 m) away from the bay.
- Hotel on a budget: If you want to stay in a hotel that offers an economical price, you can stay at the La Posada De Lulu. The hotel has a restaurant inside, located 1,968 ft (600 m) away from the beach and only 328 ft (100 m) from the commercial center.
- Luxury hotel: The GHL Hotel Sunrise is just a minute’s walk from the beach. In addition to a free breakfast buffet and swimming pool, the hotel offers many amenities that make it one of the top-rated hotels in San Andres.
North End
If you want to stay in an area with an urbanized ambiance, the North End is recommended. It is located very near Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport. It offers easy access to resorts and luxury hotels and features some of the best beaches in San Andres.
- Hostel accommodation: If on a budget and want to stay in a hostel, consider the Hostal Olas. It is 2.17 miles (3.5 kilometers) away from San Andres Bay.
- Hotel on a budget: Le Castel Blanc Boutique Hotel is only 1.24 mi (2 km) away from the airport and promises a comfortable stay with amazing prices.
- Luxury hotel: if you are looking for a luxurious affair in the North End, we recommend Hotel Koray.
San Luis
A little further away from the hustle and bustle of the island, you will find San Luis on the eastern coast of San Andres.
Home to beautiful Antillean architecture and native villages, San Luis, is the very picture of peace and serenity. Some famous beaches, including Cocoplum Bay, Rocky Cay, and the Botanical Gardens, are also located in this area.
You may also find this area suitable for staying if you want to try water-based activities like jet skiing, sailing, diving, etc.
- Hotel on a budget: The Hotel San Luis by El Dorado is a top choice if you want to stay in San Luis. It is located 3.1 miles (5 km) from San Andres Bay.
- Luxury Hotel: The Decameron San Luis is an all-inclusive hotel with 3 restaurants, a swimming pool, a tennis court, and a nightclub. You can also canoe, snorkel and windsurf, as the beach is only 328 ft (100 m) away.
For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.
Tips To Enjoy Your Stay in San Andres, Colombia
Here are a few more tips to help you make your trip comfortable and enjoyable.
The island’s weather remains more or less the same as it is very near the equator, and throughout the year, it stays mostly sunny. The average temperature on the island is around 80.6 °F (27°C). So if you’re thinking what to pack for the trip, keep it casual with clothes meant to be worn in the warm weather. Do not forget to add beach gear to enjoy the best beaches of Colombia.
However, if you are planning to go to the White Party on the Portofino Cruise, you should pack a formal outfit or two. Also, keep sunscreen with you to avoid sunburn when out on the beach.
If you also want to get a feel of the island, you can rent a golf cart and explore the small island at your will.
Some beaches may not have ATMs, so it is a good idea to always bring local currency in cash. Since most of the island activities require payment in cash, it will come in handy.
Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!
Frequently Asked Questions – San Andres, Colombia
What Is San Andrés, Colombia Known For?
San Andres is a tropical paradise known for its beautiful beaches with soft white sand and clear waters, ideal for activities like swimming, diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking, etc.
Is San Andrés, Colombia Expensive?
If we compare San Andres with mainland Colombia, you may find it a little more expensive in terms of accommodation and food. However, compared to Western countries, it’s still cheaper to visit.
Does San Andrés Belong to Colombia?
Yes, San Andres has been under the Colombian government since the 1900s. The US had requested control over the island, but the natives were loyal to Colombia and preferred to be associated with it.
Conclusion – San Andres, Colombia
Mesmerizing, unique, relaxing, vibrant, magical: these words can barely describe the wonder that is San Andres Colombia. Chilling out at the beach, amazing underwater adventures, Afro-Caribbean cultural fares, and more: enjoying everything this island paradise has to offer is an experience that is not to be missed.
With this article, we hope you’re ready to head out to your next sojourn in San Andres Colombia.
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Related Reads:
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- A Guide To Caño Cristales Rainbow River Colombia: Tips & Best Places To Stay
Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter
Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.