San Andres Island is Colombia is a hidden gem along the Caribbean coastline. Despite it’s rise in popularity, the island still maintains a local charm and culture unique to their Caribbean home: we’re talking reggae music, fresh seafood, and coastal landscapes that will make you do a double take.
The island has become a hotspot for national and international tourists in recent years, but are truly one of the best places to soak in a little island life. However, due to it’s relatively far distance from the Colombian mainland and three total islands in the archipelago, it can be difficult to know where to start planning your trip.
I spent a week exploring the islands of San Andres and Providencia as part of my 32 Departments of Colombia project, and have compiled everything I learned on my own trip here to help you plan your own! So pack your sunscreen, and off to the islands we go!
In this article I break down everything you’ll need to know to plan a trip to San Andres, but I highly recommend a visit to Providencia Island during your trip if you have the time! Check out my Ultimate Guide to Providencia here.
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Popular Tours in San Andres
🤿 Scuba Diving in San Andres – Learn the basics of scuba diving amongst the stunning coral reefs
🌊 Walking Underwater Tour – Visit the famous submerged Poseidon Statue wearing scuba helmets!
🏝️ Cays and Mangroves – Explore the unique natural features of the island on this guided tour
Recommended Reading: The Perfect Weeklong Itinerary for San Andres and Providencia Islands (Coming Soon!)
How to Get to San Andres Island
The only way to get to San Andres (and onwards to Providencia) is by flying into the Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport in San Andres. Click here to check flight prices and dates on Kiwi.com or use the widget below.
The San Andres Tourist Card
Before traveling to San Andres Island, you must purchase a tourist card at your airport of origin. As of 2023, the card costs 130,000 COP ($33 USD) per person and must be presented when arriving and leaving San Andres. It’s important to know that the tourist card can only be paid for with cash, so make sure to take out the appropriate amount at an ATM beforehand.
When we left from the Bogota airport, we were able to buy our tourists cards right at our gate. This could vary airport to airport, so make sure to inquire at your own port of origin before leaving.
Getting Around San Andres Island
San Andres island is only 26 square kilometers, so it’s pretty easy to get around. There’s one main road that circles the island with public buses available, but if you want a little more flexibility over your transportation I recommend one of the following options.
By moto
By far the most popular local form of transportation, you’ll see plenty of motos and scooters out on the road in San Andres. There are plenty of places to rent motos in the city center of the island, with prices of around 100,000 COP (~$30 USD) per day.
Note that helmets are not often included, so be sure to ask specifically if this is a priority for you. Make sure your travel insurance covers potential accidents if you plan to take this route – I recommend checking out the plans from Visitors Coverage.
By bike
If you want to get a little exercise, biking around San Andres is a fun way to explore the island. This is the route we took and we loved it – though I’ll admit some of the elevation in the center of the island took me a little by surprise!
We rented bikes from Konan Paradise, which cost 30,000 COP (~$8 USD) per person per day. I definitely enjoyed getting to enjoy the island from the back of a bike, and working up a bit of a sweat in the process!
By golf cart
If you have more people to transport around, renting a golf cart is one of the best ways to explore San Andres. Check out this two-seat option with plenty of space for beach supplies, or transport your whole family around with this 6-seater option.
Note that if you plan to rent a golf cart on the spot, it’s best to arrive early! This is an extremely popular form of transportation on the island, so it’s always better safe than sorry.
The Best Things to do on San Andres Island
Now that you’ve arrived and got your transportation sorted, it’s time to start exploring San Andres! Here are some of my favorite things to do on the island.
WATCH: Colombia has CARIBBEAN ISLANDS! | SAN ANDRES & Providencia – 3/32
1. Swim with Poseidon
By far one of the coolest places I visited in San Andres was Reggae Roots. This beach bar is home to pools for snorkeling, a diving board, and the real highlight – a giant Poseidon statue resting 8 meters under the crystal clear water.
The statue was constructed in 2012 by Mario Hoyos and was made with reef safe materials, meaning it still looks nearly as good as new. It’s a truly unique experience to swim with the god of the seas.
We tried free-diving down to the statue with just our snorkel gear, but I’ll admit as a novice diver it was no easy feat! However, many companies offer tours with pressurized diving helmets to visit the statue, which might be one of the coolest experiences of all time.
2. Search for Treasure at Morgan’s Cove
Legend says the infamous Captain Morgan buried his riches in a deep cave off the coast of San Andres, and these days visitors can still go and try to spot the treasure for themselves.
Captain Morgan’s Cove is perfect for pirate lovers and culture lovers alike. While the museum at the site of the cave is undeniably kitschy, that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. The guided tour takes you through the history of piracy on the island and gives you a look into Captain Morgan’s life. The tour includes a look into traditional island life as well – from the historical significance of coconuts to local dance and music. Honestly, I went into it with low expectations and walked away impressed.
The entry and tour costs 25,000 COP (~$6 USD) per person.
3. Lounge at Laguna Big Pond
If you’re looking for some local flavor on your trip to San Andres, look no further than Laguna Big Pond. Located right in the middle of the local Las Lomas neighborhood, this pond is off the beaten tourist track and a nice place to spend an afternoon.
So grab a cerveza from the beach shack and kick back, islander style. There’s bound to be reggae blasting and locals relaxing on the pond’s edge. Make sure to keep an eye out for wild horses – or even the lone alligator!
Entrance to Laguna Big Lake costs 5,000 COP ($1.30 USD) per person.
Recommended Reading: The Best Things to do in Cali, Colombia: The Salsa Capital of the World!
4. Try a Coco Loco
The emblematic drink of the island, you can’t visit San Andres without trying a coco loco. And you won’t have to look far – they’re sold on practically every corner!
True to its name, a coco loco is coconut water mixed with vodka, tequila, and rum. There are plenty of variations across the island, some including grenadine, sweetened condensed milk, or even more alcohol, but the best coco locos are served in the fresh coconut themselves. Drink up, and then crack open the husk to enjoy the fresh coconut meat.
I tried plenty of coco locos during my trip to San Andres, but my favorite was at the Madguana Reggae bar – more on them in the next point!
5. Explore the sunken ship at Rocky Cay
With crystal white beaches and water the color of Koolaid, Rocky Cay is exactly how you might imagine a Caribbean beach. Add in the abandoned, rusting cargo ship right off the shoreline and it feels like something straight out of Pirates of the Caribbean.
Rocky Cay was my favorite beach we visited on San Andres. Located on the eastern side of the island, there are plenty of places to relax along the beach, but my personal favorite was the Madguana Beach Bar. Bartender Big Bam makes a mean coco loco and they’ve got the best reggae on the beach.
We opted to swim to the Rocky Cay Island ourselves and snorkel around the abandoned ship, but I don’t recommend this unless you’re a strong swimmer. There are plenty of boats along the water’s edge that will take you out to the island, or better yet, opt for a guided tour like this one to learn more about marine life and visit multiple islands on your trip.
6. Get a tan on Playa Principal
If lying on a beach is your top priority on a visit to San Andres, look no further than the Playa Principal of Spratt Bight. With stunning views over the crystal waters and the nearby Johnny Cay Island, it’s the perfect place to embrace your inner beach bum and spend a day lounging away.
There are plenty of restaurants and bars right off the sand, or better yet, a number of beach vendors who will whip you up a coco loco or grab you a cold Aguila. So grab your book and your sunscreen and get ready for a day spent in the sand.
It’s important to note that as the main beach in San Andres, La Playa Principal can get crowded later in the day. Keep this in mind and make sure to head early if you’re bothered by crowds.
7. Go parasailing over Johnny Cay
The ocean surrounding San Andres is colloquially known as “el mar de siete colores,” or “the sea of seven colors.” Thanks to the abundant coral reefs and marine life surrounding the island, the water appears like a kaleidoscope of blue hues.
The best way to see these unique colors is from above, preferably parasailing through the air over the beaches of Johnny Cay. If you’re up for a little adrenaline on your beach vacation, there’s no better way to experience this unique wonder than flying behind a speedboat over the rainbow below.
Thrill seekers, check out this tour for 1-2 people to see San Andres from a new perspective.
8. Visit el Hoyo Soplador
At the southernmost point of the island, the rocky coast forms in such a way that high tide is an explosive event – literally! The Hoyo Soplador is a natural funnel, which channels the incoming waves and sends the water shooting into the air. Standing in the splash zone is part of the fun!
The funnel effect only happens during high tide, so it’s important to review the tides for when you’ll be visiting and make sure to plan accordingly.
Note that entrance to the Hoyo Soplador costs 20,000 COP (~$5.00 USD) per person. There is also a restaurant on the property where you can buy a bite to eat, or a few drinks to enjoy while you watch this unique natural feature.
9. Learn to scuba dive
Home to the third largest coral reef in the world, there’s no better place to learn to scuba dive than San Andres! Offering everything from introductory courses to full-week intensives, you’ll be able to find the perfect course for your needs and have the opportunity to swim with some of the most extraordinary marine life in the world.
Scuba newbies, this one-day beginner course requires no prior experience and introduces you to everything you need to know to tackle the seven seas. You’ll get the chance to learn the basics with experienced instructors in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
10. Snorkel amongst the coral
The crystal clear waters around San Andres are one of the best snorkeling spots in the world, and no trip to the islands would be complete without grabbing your goggles and giving it a go.
My favorite snorkel spot on the island was the beach off of the Reggae Roots bar, though if you have your own gear, pretty much any spot off the coastline is home to an array of colorful creatures! You can bring your own snorkel gear from home, or there are plenty of places in El Centro that rent/sell snorkel gear.
Another option is to join a guided tour like this one. The guides will take you to the best snorkeling spots all around the island so all you have to do is sit back and relax!
11. Take a trip to Providencia Island
Located 30 minutes by plane or 3 hours by boat from San Andres island, Providencia Island has a totally different feel from the beach resorts and boat tours. This island is a mere 18 kilometers around, home to stunning mountains and pristine white beaches. It truly embodies island life and is a unique look into real life in the Colombian Caribbean.
If you have time in your San Andres itinerary, I highly recommend a visit. Providencia is my favorite place I’ve visited in the Colombian Caribbean with a truly local feel.
I’ve written an entire Ultimate Guide to Providencia Island as well, so go check it out to help you plan your visit!
12. Bike Around Las Lomas
Las Lomas is the local neighborhood of the island and a living piece of San Andres history. It’s a great place to take a bike ride and admire the unique Caribbean architecture of the neighborhood as well as get to know a local side of the island.
One of the best places to visit in Las Lomas is the Emmanuel Baptist Church in the heart of the neighborhood. Constructed on one of the tallest points on the island, it has beautiful views out over the sea of seven colors, but it’s history is what makes it extraordinary. Founded in 1847, the church was brought from Alabama and assembled piece by piece on the island. These days, locals gather every Sunday (and many days in between) to worship in the church, a central point of the community.
As always when visiting local neighborhoods and landmarks, please be respectful of locals you may encounter.
13. Visit the Water Park at West View
One of the most popular spots along the western side of San Andres Island is Eco Parque West View. This spot is one of the best snorkeling spots along the coastline but that’s not the best part — there’s also diving boards and a waterslide straight into the ocean!
This is a great spot to relax and hang out but be warned that it’s a popular spot, so it can get quite crowded later in the afternoon. My recommendation would be to go early if possible to have more of the place to yourself and then kick back and enjoy a beer from the bar onsite once the crowds start rolling in.
Entrance to West View costs 4,000 COP ($1.00 USD) per person. You can rent snorkel gear onsite or bring your own.
14. Eat Plenty of Fresh Seafood
The fish doesn’t get fresher than that on San Andres Island, so if you’re a seafood lover, trying a few local dishes is a must! One of the most popular dishes is red snapper, usually fried and coated in a delicious sauce. Served with a side of patacón (fried green banana) and coconut rice, it’s the perfect hearty meal after a day on the water.
The national dish of San Andres is rondón, a coconut-milk based stew served with different kinds of seafood, banana, yams, tomato, and onion. In San Andres it’s not uncommon to find fish, crabs, lobster, and even sea snails in your rondón! Most local restaurants around the island serve the dish, though be prepared to wait a bit as it takes a while to prepare.
The dish pictured above is from Restaurante West View, right across from the West View Waterpark mentioned above. It’s a great place to stop for a bite to eat after a day of swimming!
15. Kayak Through the Mangroves
San Andres Island is home to the Parque Nacional Manglares de Old Point, one of the largest protected mangrove reserves in the country. It’s a great place to explore some of the unique natural features of the island beyond powdery beaches and crystal water (though there’s plenty of that too!)
The park itself is home to a number of unique flora and fauna, from sea life like crabs and mussels to a diverse number of endemic and migratory birds. The park is home to a number of tranquil, shaded trails through the mangroves, a nice respite from the hot Caribbean sun! You can also explore the mangroves themselves on the back of a kayak.
Entrance to the park is 10,000 COP ($2.50 USD) for visitors.
Where to Stay on San Andres Island
San Andres is home to a number of lodging options, from luxury beach resorts to family-run homestays. Lodging in San Andres is certainly not the most budget-friendly in Colombia, but there are still plenty of options for travelers of all different budgets.
Hostels on San Andres Islands
Karibbik Haus Hostel | We spent a night here during our time on the island and I highly recommend it. With both privates and dorms available, it’s probably the most affordable place you’ll find on the island. I thoroughly enjoyed the tranquil common space and the well-stocked kitchen, but the best part was it was only a short walk from the beach!
Viajero Hostal | This popular hostel chain is well-known throughout Colombia for their delicious breakfasts and fun atmospheres, and Viajero San Andres is no different. Located walking distance from the beach and the airport and offering both privates and dorms, this hostel is the perfect spot for couples to solo travelers alike.
Marysol Lodging & Camping | Looking to connect with some locals on the island? Marysol Lodging and Camping is located off the beaten tourist path in San Andres and run by a local family. With dorms and camping available, it’s a tranquil place to connect with a different side of island life.
Hotels on San Andres Islands
The Rock House Eco Hotel | Located in a traditional-style family home just 5 minutes from the city center, The Rock House is home to air-conditioned rooms, a pool, and a terrace with stunning sea views. Car and bike rental can be booked directly through the hotel, plus they offer massage and yoga services for the ultimate relaxing vacay!
Sunset Paradise Hotel | Dream of lounging in the pool with oceanfront views? Look no further than Sunset Paradise Hotel. True to its name, it offers some of the best sunset views on the island as well as beautifully furnished rooms and an on-site bar and restaurant.
Hotel Bahia Sardina | For those looking to be right in the middle of the action, Hotel Bahia Sardina is located just steps from la playa principal. It’s walking distance from all the major sites in the center, but with a restaurant on-site and a 24-hour service desk offering tours and transportation, you won’t have to walk far!
Why Visit San Andres, Colombia?
There is truly no other place in Colombia like San Andres – or in the world for that matter! It’s a unique taste of Caribbean life, mixed with stunning views, delicious food, and the friendliest people you’ll find in the country!
San Andres is a spot perfect for the beach lounger to adventurous explorer alike, so grab your sunscreen and enjoy your time on this island paradise. Want to learn more about the stories of San Andres and Providencia Islands? Check out my full YouTube video from my 32 Departments of Colombia series, or keep exploring Colombia with all my guides, from the eje cafetero to the bustling capital of Bogotá.
Colombia Quick Links
\✈️ Flights – Use Kiwi.com or WayAway to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Colombia
🛏️ Accommodation – Find the best places to stay throughout Colombia on Booking.com
✅ Get Insured – I personally use Safety Wing Nomad Insurance for my travels all around the world! VisitorsCoverage is another great option.
🚗 Rent a Car – Find the best deals for a Georgia road trip on RentalCars.com
🗺️ Find Things to Do – Check out Get Your Guide or Viator for exciting adventures all around Georgia
☎ Buy a Sim – Airalo offers eSIMS for over 200 countries and regions
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Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.
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San Andres looks like a great spot visit, not yet completely overrun with tourists. Biking around the island, kayaking in the mangroves, and snorkeling sound ideal.
San Andreas looks like such a beautiful place! And with so many things to do! I’d definitely have to go kayaking through the mangroves. It’s one of my favorite activities!
San Andres look so amazing – can ´t believe it was never on my bucket list! Would love to see the sunken ship at rocky kay and test the scuba diving! Thanks for the inspiration!
I’ve never heard of this island but it sounds really fun! And I love that it hasn’t really been discovered yet. The sunken ship at rocky cay would be a must for me!
Amazing place, love everything connected to water sports and snorkeling, this looks like a paradise!