Is There a Beach in Cartagena Colombia?

Key Takeaways:

• Although Cartagena, Colombia itself may not offer the beach experience you envision, there are several stunning beaches near the city.
• The Rosario Islands, Playa Blanca on Isla Baru, Isla Grande, and Punta Arena on Tierra Bomba are some of the best beach destinations near Cartagena.
• The Rosario Islands, in particular, offer a mix of public and private beaches and are easily accessible by booking a Cartagena Island tour.
• Playa Blanca on Isla Baru is a popular beach known for its turquoise waters, but it can get crowded, so exploring other areas of the beach or renting a beachside bungalow may provide a more peaceful experience.
• Isla Grande and Playa Libre offer secluded and unspoiled beaches, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying the vibrant marine life.

The Rosario Islands: The Cartagena, Colombia Beaches You Dreamt Of

The Rosario Islands, located near Cartagena, are a group of islands that offer the Caribbean paradise you’ve been dreaming of. These islands are part of the Rosario National Park and can be easily reached by booking a Cartagena Island tour or taking a boat from the tourist docks in Cartagena.

The Rosario Islands offer a mix of private and public beaches, where you can spend a relaxing day enjoying the white sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning natural surroundings. Whether you prefer a peaceful beach retreat or an adventurous beach party, the Rosario Islands have something for everyone.

One of the popular activities at the Rosario Islands is snorkeling. The crystal clear waters surrounding the islands are teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Grab your snorkeling gear and dive into the underwater wonders of the Rosario Islands.

For those who prefer a more social beach experience, boat party tours are a popular option. Hop on a boat with fellow beach enthusiasts and enjoy a day of music, drinks, and dancing while cruising around the picturesque islands.

To visit the Rosario Islands, you’ll need to purchase a one-way ticket to the islands, which costs 50,000 COP per person. There is also a 19,000 COP fee to enter the national park, which will be collected when you enter the docks. It is recommended to reserve your tickets in advance or arrive early in the morning to secure your spot and make the most of your beach day at the Rosario Islands.

Playa Blanca on Isla Baru: A Beautiful and Accessible Beach

One of the most popular beaches near Cartagena is Playa Blanca, located on Isla Baru. This beautiful beach can be easily accessed by boat or car, making it a convenient option for a beach day. Playa Blanca is known for its stunning turquoise waters and soft white sand.

However, it can get crowded with tourists and vendors, especially during peak hours. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to walk down the beach to the right where the crowds thin out. Another option is to rent a beachside bungalow for the night, allowing you to enjoy the beach in a more secluded and peaceful setting.

To get to Playa Blanca, you can either take a boat from the Cartagena docks or drive to Isla Baru by car. Isla Baru is not actually an island but a peninsula connected to the mainland by a canal. If you choose to drive, there are two options – an organized shuttle or public transport. Public transport is the cheaper option, with buses available from Cartagena to Pascaballos, and then a colectivo to Isla Baru.

Isla Grande and Playa Libre: Hidden Gems on the Rosario Islands

When it comes to stunning beaches near Cartagena, Isla Grande and Playa Libre on the Rosario Islands are true hidden gems. Isla Grande, the largest island in the archipelago, boasts unspoiled beaches, calm waters, and a vibrant marine life that will leave you in awe. Playa Libre, a public beach on Isla Grande, offers a peaceful and secluded experience, away from the crowds found on other beaches.

Accessible by boat from the Cartagena docks, Isla Grande and Playa Libre are perfect destinations for snorkeling enthusiasts. The surrounding coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot to discover the underwater wonders of the Rosario Islands. Dive into the crystal clear waters and immerse yourself in a world of colorful fish and dazzling corals.

To reach Isla Grande and Playa Libre, you have the option to book a boat tour or reserve a seat on one of the boats leaving from the Cartagena docks. This convenient transportation allows you to embark on a memorable journey to these hidden gems. Alternatively, you can choose to stay overnight on Isla Grande and fully indulge in the island’s beauty and tranquility.

Conclusion

Cartagena, Colombia may not have the picture-perfect beaches within the city itself, but it is surrounded by some of the most stunning beaches in the country. The Rosario Islands, Isla Baru, Isla Grande, and other nearby destinations offer white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and an array of activities such as snorkeling, boat parties, and exploring mangroves.

Whether you prefer a lively beach experience or a secluded paradise, there is a beach near Cartagena that suits your preferences. Plan a day trip or stay overnight on one of the islands to fully immerse yourself in the tropical wonders that Cartagena has to offer.

From the vibrant city to the pristine beaches, Cartagena is a destination that combines culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an ideal beach destination in Colombia. Explore the best beaches near Cartagena and indulge in unforgettable beach experiences in this tropical paradise.