Recomendations
We hope you enjoy exploring our recommendations!
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Cartagena's Beaches
This site is a good read https://www.cartagenaconnections.com/beach-and-islands.html
The list below is made by distance from the apartment/not by preference. In all the beaches, street vendors are aggressive. Be aware that a lot of people make a living this way. They do provide some good services. I usually get the foot massages, braids, beers, seafood cocktails... It's kind of convenient to get everything with no need to go anywhere but kind of annoying if you are just trying to relax. If you are interested, all prices are negotiable but make sure to set the price before accepting any type of service and be ready to haggle. If you are not interested, just say NO, GRACIAS. This will not always stop them but if you give them an opening they will linger.
If you are really annoyed by them, the ones with the least street vendors are Castillo Grande and Tierra Bomba or you can get a tour to private islands in Islas del Rosario.
Very close and convenient but busy beach. When I'm staying in the apartment I get up early in the morning and walk it all the way up to the end and come back. It usually takes me around an hour roundtrip. This is my favorite time to go as In the morning the sun is not too strong, I get to skip the street vendors, the rush of people and early in the morning you can see fishermen and a lot of bird types.
My favorite spot for swimming is right in front of El Muelle restaurant. The water stays shallow even as you go further in. It’s also a fantastic spot to catch the sunset. If you’re thinking about renting jet skis, they’re available on the beach—don’t forget to negotiate for a better price! During the low season, you can rent them for as little as $30 USD for 30 minutes. The best time to ride is around midday, as the water tends to get rougher in the late afternoon.
- There is a great water sports place called WindSpot (@windspot) on Instagram. Highly recommended! My favorites are the SUP boards (not too difficult) and kitesurfing (very fun and challenging). This is also a great spot to chill, with a bar and jacuzzis available.
BOCA GRANDE
CASTILLO GRANDE
A short 15-minute walk from the apartment will take you to Castillo Grande beach. Step out of the apartment, turn right, and walk past the Hilton Hotel. This is primarily a residential neighborhood, especially as you continue walking along the beach towards the end. Here, you'll find more open space to enjoy the beach with fewer street vendors. On the opposite side, there’s a pedestrian walkway.
There is an Airbnb activity that leaves from here. Very challenging but if you like to Kayak, check it out! https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/885332?source=place_pdp
TIERRA BOMBA
Tierra Bomba is the large island you can see from the apartment. There are three docking areas to catch a boat there: one right next to the apartment, another near the Hilton Hotel, and my preferred one, further down in front of the hospital in Castillo Grande (map above). The walk to the third dock takes about 15 minutes, but it offers more boats and departures are more frequent.
If you are on a budget, I'll recommend finding a round trip with lunch included. You can ask around and get a really good price. They usually include the boat ride, lunch and the umbrella/chair.
Personally, I usually book a one-way trip and find out where and when the boats are returning. Prices vary by season, but it’s generally very affordable to cross to the island. Once you arrive, I highly recommend walking along the shoreline to explore and find a spot that suits your vibe. Tierra Bomba has plenty of restaurants and beach clubs where you can spend the day. Most charge a day rate, and some packages include food.
PLAYA BLANCA
This is a beautiful beach with crystal-clear water and white sand. However, I would recommend avoiding it during busy seasons, especially on weekends. you can get here by taxi/van/bus or speed boat. The nicest part of the beach is Playa Tranquila —it’s still busy, but not as overwhelming as the main section. Be prepared for a lot of street vendors, which can make it hard to fully relax unless you’re staying at one of the private resorts.
There are 2 main activities on this island:
The Aviary:
Visit the national aviary to see an incredible array of bird species. Here’s more information:
Cartagena Aviary Fun fact: Colombia is the number one country in the world for bird species, boasting over 1,900 recorded species.
Some tours include the aviary like the below:
Airbnb Aviary Experience
*Swimming with Plankton: Some of the tours will also include swimming with bioluminescent plankton. this activity is done at night. I recommend it only if you are doing it for the experience since you will not be able to get good pictures. This activity isn’t for everyone. You’ll be taken out in small fishing boats, which can feel scarry for some and you will not be able to see much unless you don't jump in the water. For me, Swimming at night in the open sea beneath a beautiful starry sky feels truly magical so if you enjoy unique and thrilling experiences, you’re likely to find it exciting. I also enjoy taking this tour as you get to stay much longer in the beach. Bring a change of clothes to change at night and water proof bag if possible.
- If you go by boat you might be better off taking a tour that brings you to multiple islands and have snorkeling included. I have an entry for Rosario islands next on this guidebook.
ISLAS DEL ROSARIO
The Islas del Rosario archipelago consists of 30 stunning islands within the municipality of Cartagena. A boat ride from Cartagena to Islas del Rosario takes approximately 60 minutes.
Visitors have the option to enjoy a private island experience or embark on a multi-island tour. These tours often include island hopping, snorkeling, lunch, beach chairs, and umbrellas.
Here are some helpful tips to make your trip smoother:
The sea can get choppy in the afternoon, so expect some splashes and bumpy moments during the ride
You’ll need to pay a fee of COP 20,000 to the port authority. Have this amount ready in Colombian pesos cash
Some locals may try to upsell or overcharge. Always ask for prices beforehand. Carry cash, preferably small denominations or they might not have change or “forget” to bring it back
They tours usually go for about COP 450.000 in the travel agencies and I saw the below on trip advisor which have very good prices and ratings
This tour is on a catamaran, which could be a great option. While I haven’t personally tried it, I imagine that being on a larger boat might provide a smoother ride https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g297476-d17716540-Excursion_to_the_Rosario_Islands_with_Lunch_and_Snorkeling-Cartagena_Cartagena_Dis.html
Places to explore / Activities
From plundering pirate history to contemporary festivals, Cartagena is one of South America’s most important cultural destinations. This city has much to offer like it’s beautiful scenery, unique culture, stunning ecotourism locations and an exquisite walled city with views of modern-day high-rise hotels. Below are some of our favorite places
Wander the cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, flower-filled balconies, shops, museums, and some great restaurants. If you're interested in learning more about the history and exploring all the key landmarks, consider taking taking a free tour at: https://freetourcartagena.com - They offer free old city and Getsemani tours and have additional paid tours.
You can also walk along the thick limestone walls surrounding the city. The early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid the heat. These fortifications were built to protect Cartagena from pirates and now offer a great experience and stunning views.
Toward the end of the wall you’ll find La Serrezuela mall, a fascinating architectural gem built around an old bullfighting arena. It features a variety of brand-name stores, excellent restaurants (including those in the food court), and beautiful views.
Right next door from la Serrezuela is Andrés Carne de Res Cartagena, a uniquely decorated and cozy spot. While the food may not be the highlight, the lively atmosphere, frequent live music, and entertainment make it worth stopping by if you are in the vicinity.
Old City
Getsemani
Just outside the walls, Getsemaní is a vibrant and artistic neighborhood filled with colorful street art, live music, and cozy cafes. It’s the perfect spot to experience Cartagena’s bohemian vibe. Head to Plaza Trinidad in the evening for a lively local scene and street food.
If you're looking to party, Getsemaní is the place to be, offering plenty of bars and clubs with a variety of music styles.
Chiva Rumbera
A chiva is a colorful, open bus that used to serve as a main form of public transportation in Cartagena, and on this tour, you get to ride in one. They have both day and night tours, the ones at night being the most popular as they are more of a moving party.
"Enjoy a fun-filled tour aboard a chiva, accompanied by traditional music such as Vallenato and the conteporany music such as reggaeton. Visit the main streets, avenues and points of interest of Cartagena; visit Bocagrande, the Clock Tower, the Camellón de los Mártires, El Arsenal to the neighborhood of Manga making a first stop at the Castle of San Felipe.
Finally, to close the night, You can choose to return to your place of rest, or enter a night club in the Walled City, where you can continue dancing with locals and other travelers."
Prices could vary base on the company but goes from COP 45.000 - 60.000 (12 - 20 USD) per person. Some includes drinks for an extra fee.
Restaurants
