Live out your dream of vacationing on a tropical island paradise in San Andrés y Providencia. This small archipelago set in the Caribbean Sea beckons with its deserted beaches, superb dive sites, infectious hospitality and curious history. Formally discovered in 1510, San Andrés y Providencia passed between the hands of Spanish conquistadors, Dutch smugglers and English pirates and puritans before willingly adhering to Colombian rule. The entire archipelago is a protected UNESCO Seaflower Biosphere Reserve.
The seahorse-shaped San Andres Island is the archipelago’s main entry point and vibrant tourism hub. Gaze out over the glistening Sea of Seven Colors from San Luis Beach and Spratt Bight Beach. Spot manta rays, sea turtles and vivid coral reef while diving or snorkeling at Haynes Cay, Johnny Cay and Morgan’s Cave. Stand beneath the spraying water of El Hoyo Blowhole and find solitude at the gorgeous Bolivar Cay.
Book a flight or a place on the catamaran to the quieter Providencia Island to enjoy more blissful beach time. Wade out into the warm, shallow water at Fresh Water Bay, Manzanillo Beach and South West Bay. Rent a kayak and explore the hidden coves off the coast of Maracaibo Bay. Go birdwatching, hiking and snorkeling at McBean Lagoon Old Providence National Natural Park. Swim with colorful fish at Crab Cay.
Cross Lover’s Bridge footbridge from Providencia Island to Santa Catalina Island where you will find boatyards and food shacks along the waterfront boardwalk. Visit the Santa Catalina Church and the remains of the 17th-century Fort Warwick.
Wind down after a day of activities at the beachfront bars and restaurants, which swing to smooth reggae beats. Feast on plates of fresh crab, lobster and snapper infused with Caribbean spices. Listen as locals chat in English, Spanish and a Creole dialect unique to the islands. Experience the fun-loving nature of the Caribbean at April’s Green Moon Festival.
Reach San Andrés y Providencia by flying to San Andrés’ international airport from major Colombian cities such as Bogotá, Calí, Cartagena and Medellín. Get around the sublime beaches at your own pace by foot and kayak.