Spending Two Days in San Andrés: Colombia
I'll be honest, my main reason for going to San Andrés wasn't to visit San Andrés. I really wanted to check out Providencia. Nevertheless, I decided to spend a couple of days exploring the island while passing through.
Famous for its turquoise waters and popular with Colombian tourists, the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina lies over 700km north-west of Colombia. More built-up than its neighbouring islands, it feels safe and secure. As my apartment host advised me, I'll be ok to walk around with my iPhone in hand.
Personally, I had mixed impressions. I liked the island but didn't fall in love with it. A couple of days was more than enough, and I couldn't wait to hop over to neighbouring Providencia. A bustling island with scooters, cars and buggies roaming the streets, it's pretty easy to get around on public transport.
It really depends on what you're after. If you're into more of an energetic restaurant, bar and party scene, then San Andrés might just be for you. For a quieter time on the island, head south where you'll find some less crowded beaches.
How to spend a weekend in San Andrés, Colombia
Island of San Andrés
Beaches in San Andrés
No doubt the main attraction to San Andrés is the beaches. The most popular beaches are in the north of the island, where the main town is, and where shops, bars and restaurants are located. If you're looking for somewhere quieter, I recommend venturing further down the island.
Beautiful turquoise water!
Rocky Cay
Just before you hit San Luis, you'll come to Cocoplum Beach. With a nice vibe, you can chill out and also head over to Rocky Cay, an island where you can walk to from the shore. It's a great place for a spot of snorkelling too.
Rocky Cay is popular, so you might find that the beach starts to fill up as the day goes on.
They have some great coconuts too!
Rocky Cay… Happy for some beach time!!
Sound Bay
With a couple of good restaurants, the tides are higher here, and it's a little windier. The beach is beautiful and much less crowded!
Sound Bay… Whoop!
Playa Charquitos
This was my favourite beach! Much less crowded than the others, with low waves and crystal-clear water.
The only drawback was the lack of shade! There's really nowhere to hide, so if you stop by here, it'll probably only be for an hour or two.
So pretty!!
Dine at La Regratta
Since I've been in Colombia, I've decided to splurge a little... Maybe it's laziness, or Colombia being the last South American country I've planned to visit; I've let loose the purse strings a little.
It's not the cheapest place, but for amazing seafood, it's totally worth it!! Oh, and the brownie was quite possibly the best brownie I've ever had!!
I have FOMO when it comes to food, and I really dislike missing out when I know it's going to be amazing!
Head to Reggae Roots for Sunset
A cool bar off the shore; it has a pretty great view of the sunset. Unfortunately, it was cloudy when I went, but I enjoyed a drink anyway.
They also run snorkelling tours. When I arrived, one of the staff had caught a lobster during the snorkelling tour and cooked it for the group. I was a little jealous.
Eat a lot of Fish
I was a little disappointed by the restaurants and food on San Andrés. Given the proximity to the sea, I had hoped for better.
That is, until I found Captain Mandy's. My prayers were answered, and I had a delicious fried snapper!
Mmmm...
La Piscinita
I saved my snorkelling experiences for Providencia. However, if you're passing by, which you're more likely to be at some point, this is the snorkelling hotspot on the island.
Getting around San Andrés
Getting around is pretty easy. There's one main road that does a loop around the island. There are many places where you can rent a scooter or a buggy.
The cheapest way to get around is using the public buses, and you're not usually waiting too long before one comes along.
I was so tempted to get a buggy on San Andrés! Luckily they have pretty good public transport!
Beaches in San Andrés
How to get to San Andrés
It's pretty easy to fly to San Andrés from Colombia. There are direct flights from many cities in Colombia, including Medellín, Cartagena, and Bogotá. You can even fly direct from Panama City.
Flight prices can vary, but they can be as cheap as $60 USD. It's worth shopping around.
Before you arrive in San Andrés, you'll need to obtain a tourist card and pay a tourist tax. You can buy this at the airport when you board your flight. Just don't forget!! They'll ask you for this when you arrive and leave San Andrés, as well as when you enter Providencia.
Where to stay in San Andrés
I found really good accommodation options for good value, hard to come by in San Andrés. However, here are some cosy places to consider for your stay.
Casa Harb Hotel Boutique
Only 5 minutes away from the beach, Casa Harb is an elegantly furnished and peaceful boutique hotel. Rooms are spacious, and guests can relax by the outdoor pool.
Hotel Acantilado de La Tierra by On Vacation
Set in a peaceful location, this exclusive retreat offers the best of both worlds: easy access to the beaches and a tranquil place to switch off.
Red Ground Village
A budget-friendly option; the bus stop is close by, and you’re around a 10-minute drive from downtown.
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Overall Impressions
It's a gorgeous island, with some pretty cool beaches. It's easy to get around, and the local population speak English and Spanish. However, I was definitely hassled a lot more by touts and didn't always feel comfortable.
It was worth spending a couple of days in San Andrés to experience it. But, if I were to ever come back, I'd probably just head straight to neighbouring Providencia.
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