San Andrés
San Andrés
San Andrés is a Colombian island that sits in the Caribbean Sea, about 470 miles northwest of mainland Colombia. This small island packs a serious punch when it comes to natural beauty with its crystal clear waters in seven different shades of blue. The locals call this phenomenon the "Sea of Seven Colors" - and it's absolutely worth seeing for yourself.
The island has a unique cultural identity, with Raizal people making up most of the population. They speak a Creole language that mixes English, Spanish and African dialects. This cultural mix is reflected in the island's music, food, and traditions. The cuisine features plenty of seafood with Caribbean spices and coconut-based dishes that you won't find elsewhere in Colombia.
San Andrés has a fascinating history too. It was initially colonized by the British, then claimed by the Spanish, and finally became part of Colombia in 1822. The island was once a haven for pirates, including the famous Henry Morgan who supposedly hid treasure somewhere on the island. Today, it's known for its duty-free shopping, beautiful beaches like Spratt Bight, incredible diving spots, and the natural swimming pool of El Hoyo Soplador where water shoots up through rocks during high tide. Despite being small (just 10 square miles), San Andrés offers a distinct Colombian Caribbean experience that differs completely from the mainland.
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Things to do in San Andrés
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Relax at Spratt Bight Beach
Spratt Bight Beach is the main beach on San Andrés, stretching for about 3 kilometers along the island's eastern coast. With its soft white sand and turquoise waters, it's the perfect spot to relax and soak up the Caribbean atmosphere. The beach is lined with palm trees offering shade, and there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat.
The calm, shallow waters make it great for swimming, and you can rent kayaks or paddleboards if you're feeling more active. As the day winds down, stick around for the stunning sunset views. It's a lively spot that gives you a real feel for the island's culture, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
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Visit La Piscinita Natural Pool
La Piscinita, located on the western coast of San Andrés, is a natural pool formed by surrounding rocky formations. The water is exceptionally clear, offering a perfect view of the seabed. This tranquil spot is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with a variety of colorful fish visible beneath the surface.
Beyond the water, the area around La Piscinita offers opportunities for exploration. Visitors can climb the rocks, discover small tide pools, and take in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. The serene atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy the coastal landscape at a relaxed pace.
A small entrance fee is typically required, but the experience is well worth it. Wearing water shoes is recommended, as the rocky surfaces can be sharp. Whether swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the scenery, La Piscinita provides a memorable way to appreciate the island’s natural beauty.
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Snorkel at Johnny Cay
Johnny Cay is a tiny paradise just a short boat ride from San Andrés. The crystal-clear waters surrounding this small coral island are perfect for snorkeling. You'll see an array of colorful fish darting between vibrant coral formations. The underwater world here is incredibly diverse, with the chance to spot everything from trumpet fish to sea turtles.
After snorkeling, relax on the pristine white sand beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the laid-back Caribbean vibe. There are a few small beach bars where you can grab a refreshing coconut water or a cold beer. It's a great spot to spend a few hours or even a whole day, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
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Island Exploration: Beach Buggy Adventure in San Andrés
Exploring San Andrés Island at your own pace is easy with a beach buggy rental. These open-air vehicles are designed for a relaxed drive around the island, allowing you to enjoy the fresh breeze and scenic views. With enough space for up to six passengers, they are ideal for families or groups. The automatic transmission makes them simple to operate, so no advanced driving skills are required.
Each rental includes a guide highlighting the island’s top attractions. Whether visiting white sand beaches, browsing local shops, or stopping at restaurants, you have the flexibility to explore as you wish. The ability to pause anytime lets you take a swim in clear waters or enjoy a meal by the beach.
A valid driver’s license is required, and rentals typically last around nine hours. If staying in the central area, the buggy can be delivered directly to your hotel. This option provides a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the island without relying on taxis or scheduled tours. Bringing cash for fuel and sunscreen is recommended to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride.
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Visit the Casa Museo Isleña
The Casa Museo Isleña, or Island House Museum, offers a fascinating look into the history and culture of San Andrés. Housed in a traditional island home, the museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the island's past, from its indigenous roots to its colonial history and beyond.
You'll learn about the island's unique Raizal culture, a blend of African, British, and Caribbean influences. The museum also highlights the importance of the sea to island life, with displays on traditional fishing methods and boat building. The friendly staff are usually happy to share additional information and stories. It's a small museum, but it packs in a lot of interesting information and gives visitors a deeper appreciation of San Andrés's rich cultural heritage.
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Explore Hoyo Soplador
Hoyo Soplador, or the Blowing Hole, is a natural phenomenon on the southern tip of San Andrés. It's a small hole in the coral rocks that shoots water up into the air, sometimes reaching heights of 20 meters. The spectacle happens when waves crash into underwater caves, forcing water and air up through the hole.
The best time to visit is during high tide or when the sea is a bit rough, as this creates the most impressive displays. While you're waiting for the next eruption, take in the beautiful ocean views or explore the surrounding rocky coastline. It's a unique natural attraction that showcases the power of the sea in an entertaining way.
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Underwater Caribbean Adventure: SCUBA Diving in San Andres
Exploring the underwater world of San Andrés through a SCUBA diving experience offers a chance to discover the island’s clear Caribbean waters. This activity is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. After a brief introduction to the equipment and some practice, participants head to Big Mamá on the southwest side of the island. Over 50 minutes, divers swim among colorful fish and explore coral formations at depths of up to 12 meters.
A highlight of the dive is the underwater museum, where submerged statues add an interesting cultural element to the experience. The excellent visibility allows divers to fully appreciate the marine scenery. Instructors ensure that everyone feels comfortable before entering the water and remain close by throughout the dive, guiding participants and pointing out unique sea life.
The entire excursion lasts about 2.5 hours, including hotel pickup. It provides a different perspective of San Andrés beyond the beaches, making it a memorable addition to any trip. Those who choose the photo package can take home professional images of their dive. Since flying is not recommended for at least 12 hours after diving, scheduling accordingly is advised.
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Underwater Sea Walk Adventure in San Andrés
Walking on the ocean floor in San Andrés is a unique underwater experience. For 25 minutes, participants descend six meters into the clear Caribbean waters while wearing a specialized fiberglass helmet that allows them to breathe naturally. The vibrant marine life surrounds them, with colorful fish swimming close by, creating the sensation of being inside a natural aquarium.
During the guided walk, visitors may encounter stingrays gliding across the seabed and barracudas moving through their habitat. The guide ensures a smooth experience by pointing out fascinating marine species and capturing photos to document the adventure. This activity is accessible to all, requiring no prior scuba diving certification, making it an ideal introduction to underwater exploration.
The innovative helmet design keeps the head dry, allowing participants to take in the sights comfortably. This experience provides an up-close view of San Andrés’ rich marine ecosystem without the need for complex diving equipment. To stay protected from the Caribbean sun, applying sunscreen before the dive is recommended.
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Take a Glass Bottom Boat Tour
A glass bottom boat tour is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world around San Andrés without getting wet. These tours typically take you to some of the best spots around the island, including the coral reefs and the famous underwater statue of Christ of the Deep.
As you glide over the crystal-clear waters, you'll be able to see an incredible variety of marine life through the glass floor of the boat. Colorful tropical fish, intricate coral formations, and maybe even a sea turtle or two will swim beneath you. The guides usually provide interesting information about the marine ecosystem and the island's history. It's a relaxing and educational experience that's perfect for all ages.
Where to stay in San Andrés
Best hotels in San Andrés:
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Dreams Scape (budget hotel)
Dreams Scape in San Andrés is a beachfront hotel offering breathtaking ocean views and convenient access to the beach. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, featuring large beds, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. Many rooms also come with terraces, where you can relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
The location is ideal, being just a short walk from the town center but far enough from the busiest areas for a more peaceful stay. A small beach is right in front of the hotel, and you'll find restaurants and shops nearby. The staff are known for being friendly and helpful, offering great recommendations for things to do in the area.
Although the hotel doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, the rooms are equipped with mini-fridges to store drinks and snacks. Free WiFi is available and works well. This simple yet charming spot offers beautiful views and serves as a great base for exploring San Andrés, focusing more on the prime location than extensive amenities.
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Nattivo Collection Hotel (luxury hotel)
Nattivo Collection Hotel in San Andrés is a stylish beachfront retreat offering a great combination of relaxation and adventure. The hotel’s prime location places you just steps from the crystal-clear Caribbean waters and white sand beaches. For a more peaceful experience, you can enjoy the rooftop infinity pool that offers stunning ocean views.
The rooms are spacious, with a modern tropical design, featuring comfortable beds, rain showers, and private balconies that enhance the luxury feel of the stay. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes, with fresh seafood being a standout. Guests can also enjoy tropical cocktails at the rooftop bar while taking in the sunset.
The friendly and attentive staff are committed to ensuring guests have a memorable experience. Whether you need advice on island activities or simply wish to relax by the pool, they are always ready to assist. With its beachfront location and excellent amenities, Nattivo Collection Hotel is perfect for a dreamlike Caribbean getaway.
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Hotels 111 (medium range hotel)
Hotels 111 in San Andrés is an excellent choice for travelers who want to be in the center of the action. Situated on Avenida Colón, it’s just a short walk from popular beaches like Spratt Bight and Los Almendros. The rooms are clean and equipped with essentials like AC, flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi. Some rooms also feature balconies with nice views.
The staff are incredibly friendly and eager to help, offering helpful tips on what to do around the island. While the hotel doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, there are plenty of dining options nearby. As an added bonus, the hotel provides free cold water to keep guests refreshed in the tropical climate. Its central position, friendly staff, and well-maintained rooms make it a solid base for exploring the area. Just note that some rooms lack windows, so it’s a good idea to request a room with a balcony if you prefer natural light.
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Best hostels in San Andrés:
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Alojamiento San Martín (hostel)
Alojamiento San Martín is a cozy hostel in San Andrés, located just a 5-minute walk from Spratt Bight Beach. The hostel has a relaxed atmosphere, featuring a lovely garden and terrace where guests can unwind. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, with options for shared or private bathrooms.
The location is one of its best features, offering easy access to the commercial area while still being quiet enough for a peaceful night’s sleep. The staff are friendly and always ready to share local tips on things to see and do around the island. Guests also enjoy the breakfast, which is a highlight of their stay.
If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills place to stay, Alojamiento San Martín is a solid option. It’s clean, centrally located, and offers all the essentials. While it’s not luxurious, it’s perfect for travelers who want a budget-friendly place to explore San Andrés.
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Dreamer Beach Club (party hostel)
Dreamer Beach Club is a lively hostel located right by Spratt Bight Beach in San Andrés. Its prime location makes it easy to reach the ocean with just a short walk, and it's also conveniently close to the airport. The property features two pools, including an infinity pool offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
There's always something happening at Dreamer Beach Club, with activities like pool parties and live music to keep guests entertained. The rooms are comfortable, with options ranging from dorms to private rooms with balconies. However, it can get a bit noisy at night, so light sleepers should keep that in mind.
The staff are friendly and welcoming, and there's an on-site restaurant serving a variety of dishes, including Italian and seafood options. The hostel strikes a good balance between a social atmosphere and relaxed beach vibes, making it ideal for travelers who want to meet new people while still enjoying a laid-back island experience. Just keep in mind it's more of a party hostel than a quiet retreat.