Top 15 Must-Do Activities in San Andrés, Colombia

Located in the Caribbean Sea, the island of San Andrés is closer to Nicaragua than to Colombia, yet it remains an ideal getaway from the mainland. A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, this archipelago boasts beaches, cays, islets, and coral reefs abundant with native flora and fauna. From mangrove trees to the waterfront promenade and the popular Johnny Cay Park, visitors can observe crabs, birds, and iguanas.

This destination is particularly appealing for enthusiasts of scuba diving and snorkeling, and offers opportunities for day trips to explore nearby islands and catch your own lunch. The stunning blue-green waters have earned the moniker “the sea of seven colors.” Initially explored by English Puritans, elements of their legacy can still be observed in the island’s architecture, language, and neighborhood names.

Let’s delve into the top activities to experience in San Andrés:

1. Johnny Cay Natural Regional Park

Take a boat ride from the main beach in San Andrés to this island, characterized by white sand beaches and coconut groves.

Home to numerous iguanas, the protected coral islet is strikingly beautiful but can become crowded with tourists, particularly on weekends.

Relax beneath a palm tree or venture to snorkel over the vibrant surrounding reef.

Numerous food and drink stalls play reggae music—do not miss the Caribbean lobster, fried fish, or the coco loco (a fresh coconut with rum). You can explore the island’s interior or take a leisurely stroll around in approximately 15 minutes.

2. Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is a primary draw for many visitors to the island of San Andrés.

With remarkable visibility and water temperatures that eliminate the need for wetsuits, it is an excellent location to learn to dive or engage in fun dives.

Colorful coral reefs, rock formations, an abundance of fish, sharks, and even bioluminescent plankton await exploration.

Divers can arrange shore dives, wreck dives, and even night dives.

Several professional dive shops offer experienced instructors and divemasters fluent in both English and Spanish—consider Scuba San Andrés Dive Shop and Blue Life Centro de Buceo.

3. El Acuario and Haynes Cay

Rent a boat from the docks to Cayo El Acuario for some of the most breathtaking blue waters you will ever encounter.

This location can also become quite crowded with visitors and boats; therefore, it is wise to avoid weekends.

A popular sandbank allows for the rental of snorkeling gear and lockers, although there may be less underwater diversity than in other areas.

For a more secluded and relaxing experience, walk or swim from El Acuario to the nearby Haynes Cay.

While small—offering very little actual beach—it is among the most beautiful cays in San Andrés.

You will encounter pristine waters, wild iguanas, and two quaint restaurants, one of which (Bibi’s Place) is highly recommended.

4. Kayak Through the Mangroves

For a distinct tropical island experience, consider a tour with EcoFiwi to explore the Old Point Regional Mangrove Park.

This family-owned enterprise can guide you through tunnels of mangrove trees in “transparent” sea kayaks, allowing visibility of the aquatic life below.

Gain insight into this unique and vital ecosystem that serves as a hatchery for numerous fish species.

You will have opportunities for snorkeling sessions, witnessing juvenile versions of various newly-hatched fish, as well as corals, rays, anemones, and starfish.

This company strives to foster environmental awareness on the island and combats overdevelopment, with snacks and juice provided at the conclusion of the tour.

5. Go Snorkeling

Throughout the beaches and islands surrounding San Andrés, it is common to find vendors and shops offering snorkeling equipment for rent.

However, some locations are superior to others; thus, it is advisable to acquire a mask at reputable beaches such as La Piscinita.

Of course, a boat tour can transport you to the best offshore snorkeling sites near reefs and shipwrecks situated in deeper waters (off the beaten tourist path). On an optimal day, you may encounter a variety of fish, vibrant corals, rays, and even sea turtles and sharks if fortunate.

6. Visit Providencia

If San Andrés becomes excessively hectic or crowded for your taste, consider visiting its remote counterpart, Providencia, which lies just 56 miles (90 kilometers) to the north.

You can take a flight or a three-hour catamaran trip to this unblemished land where the pace of life is significantly slower.

Due to its relatively challenging accessibility, there are fewer tourists, and the traditional lifestyle remains intact, with English Creole still spoken in the villages.

Visitors are attracted to exceptional scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking opportunities.

Explore Crab Cay and McBean Lagoon National Park for pristine beaches, and head to Peak Forestry Reserve for scenic hikes when you’ve had your fill of aquatic activities.

Spending a couple of nights in this paradise is highly recommended, so consider local posadas and B&Bs available in the villages of Bahía Suroeste and Aguadulce.

7. Try the Island Cuisine

Being situated in the Caribbean Sea provides access to the freshest seafood, including red snapper, sautéed conch, lobster, and crab.

Along the beaches and cays, one will find quaint restaurants serving whole fried fish paired with coconut rice and patacones (smashed and fried plantains); others provide excellent ceviche as well.

Many island kitchens specialize in serving snails or caracoles presented as salads, stews, and even meatballs.

Don’t miss sampling rondon, an Afro-Caribbean soup comprised of fish, yams, crab, snail, pigtail, and plantains, all simmered in coconut milk with pepper.

This dish is available at eateries such as Fisherman Place or Miss Celia, or wherever else it appears on the menu!

8. Day Trip to Cayo Bolívar

With some of the finest beaches, consider taking a tour or hiring a boat to this small island surrounded by palm trees and white sand.

The journey may require a whole day—it’s located approximately 15 miles (25 kilometers) away—but a typical tour includes beverages and lunch, along with ample time to relax in the sun.

Due to its relative inaccessibility, the island remains pristine, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with fish, coral, and even small sharks swimming nearby.

Be sure to consult local authorities, as access to the island is sometimes restricted for environmental preservation, and do note that the boat ride can be quite bumpy.

9. Hire a Golf Cart or Bike

Explore the island at your own pace by renting a golf cart or opting for a bicycle ride for some physical activity.

While the island is not extensive, the heat can be intense, making this a quicker alternative for traveling between the main town, beaches, and smaller villages around San Andrés.

Golf carts are generally available for rental from hotels for half days, whole days, or even three hours—sufficient time to navigate the island with several stops along your journey.

These rentals are economical and allow for an opportunity to discover the less-touristed aspects, such as local shops, charming restaurants, and quieter neighborhoods.

10. The Villages of San Luis and La Loma

A tranquil alternative to the bustling downtown of San Andrés, the charming villages of San Luis and La Loma make for an excellent day of exploration.

San Luis features colorful rustic houses and posadas along the eastern coast, while Rocky Cay boasts a stunning beach perfect for snorkeling.

La Loma, positioned in the island’s interior just south of the center, retains its traditional charm.

Ascend to the Hill, a prominent lookout point and the highest elevation on the island, and visit the historic Baptist church, established in 1847 and reconstructed with Alabama pine.

11. La Piscinita

La Piscinita (also known as West View) ranks as one of the premier shore snorkeling spots in San Andrés, and for good reason.

Upon paying a modest entrance fee, you’ll receive a piece of bread to feed the fish swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

Acquire your mask or rent one on-site, leap from the diving board into the sea, and witness fish feeding directly from your hands! Additional water activities are available for an extra fee, including jet boat rides and aquanaut gear.

Nearby, a remarkable restaurant housed in coconuts as well as vendors selling coconut water, cocktails, and beers create an enjoyable atmosphere for a day spent here, despite its touristy nature.

12. Explore the History of the Island

After visiting the smaller villages and enjoying ample beach time, venture to the west coast of the island to glimpse its fascinating history.

La Cueva de Morgan is a cave where the Welsh pirate Henry Morgan purportedly concealed his treasure.

While you cannot physically enter the cave due to water filling it, tours are available to view the entrance.

Additionally, enjoy the traditional dancers, artwork, and a coconut museum in proximity.

Nearby, the Island House Museum, which showcases the lovely former home of an English family, preserves artifacts from the island’s past.

Guided tours of the house are offered, and there is even a small dance studio outside where traditional dance lessons take place.

13. Jardin Botanico de San Andrés

For enthusiasts of plants, flowers, and gardening, this botanical garden is a must-visit destination in San Andrés.

The gardens are exceptionally well-kept, and tours are available to learn about the island’s nature and history, lasting approximately one hour.

Enjoy a refreshing stroll through the greenery, discover important native plants of the island, and ascend to the pinnacle of the building for a splendid vista of the foliage of San Andrés and the ocean beyond.

The facilities are modern, paths are well-defined, and you may even encounter some wildlife during your visit.

14. Fishing Tours

If you desire an adventurous day on the water, consider embarking on a fishing excursion in the Caribbean Sea.

Many fishing tours can be complemented with meals, stops for snorkeling, and lively music onboard.

With a bit of luck, you may reel in fish such as bonito, wahoo, and mahi-mahi, which you can then grill for lunch on a nearby island. Local fishing guides are friendly and adept at taking you to the best fishing locations surrounding the island.

15. Stroll the Waterfront Promenade

El Centro, also known as the North End, serves as the primary commercial hub of the island. While most of the area isn’t particularly scenic, the waterfront promenade stands out as perhaps the most attractive aspect of San Andrés town.

Beginning at Parque Ecológico San Andrés and the “I Love San Andrés” sign, stroll along the paved walkway adjacent to the beach, where you will discover a multitude of hotels, bars, and restaurants.

From some upscale (and pricier) establishments to casual stalls with plastic chairs, the promenade offers diverse options.

This area is ideal for an evening stroll at sunset, seeking a waterfront locale, or trying your luck at the casino.