Best Beaches In Cartagena: Which One Is Right For You?
Did you know spending time at a beach can decrease mental health risks by up to 40%?
Why not give yourself the gift of well-being, and spend some time at the many beautiful beaches of Cartagena, Colombia? In this guide, discover what makes Cartagena’s ten best beaches so great.
Does Cartagena Have Beaches?
Yes. Cartagena is a port city, built on the shores of the Caribbean Sea in Colombia.
The city encompasses a peninsula, Isla de Barú, and several islands–including those comprising Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park.
What Is The Typical Sea Temperature At Cartagena’s Beaches Each Season?
The temperature of the sea at Cartagena’s shores is relatively stable. The warm waters’ heat levels rarely shift. Instead, they stay within an under-five-degree range.
In February, the beaches’ coldest month, the sea ranges from 79.6°F to 81.7°F on average. In the average October, the sea’s warmest month, the water temperature doesn’t drop below 84.4°F, and it reaches highs of 86.3°F.
What Are The Best Months For Enjoying Beaches In Cartagena?
Like most places in the Caribbean, Cartagena Colombia has two seasons: a wet season and a dry season.
The dry season is better for visitors, as it’s far less likely any activities will be rained out. Cartagena’s dry season runs from December through April.
Within that range, February is an ideal month to visit, as tourist traffic drops off and, often, travelers can take advantage of “off-season” discounts.
Top 10 Beaches In Cartagena, Colombia: Best Beaches At A Glance
1. Playa de Bocagrande
Playa de Bocagrande is the nearest beach to Old Town Cartagena, the walled city.
It’s known for beautiful sunset views and a party-like atmosphere. It’s one of the most popular, bustling beaches in Colombia.
2. Beaches of Barú Island (Isla de Barú)
The Isla de Barú is surrounded by Cartagena Bay, a canal, and the Caribbean Sea. The water is pristine, clear as crystal, and multicolored schools of fish flit near the shore. Relax on the picturesque pink and white sand, or enjoy the isle’s top-rated recreation.
3. Playa Blanca
Among Barú Island’s beaches, Playa Blanca is a jewel. The perennially popular spot is the site of seaside breakfast, family amenities, and cozy bungalows for rent.
4. Manzanillo Del Mar
This expansive, white-sand beach is perfect for a day of swimming. Yet, the spot’s highlight is truly cinematic: it’s the only Cartagena-area beach where visitors can ride horseback along the shore.
5. Playa Laguito
Near Bolivar Park and the Cartagena coast, Playa Laguito is a beach of golden sands and plenty to do. Snorkel, paddle board, or simply enjoy tropical beachside food and drink at this memorable shore.
6. Palmetto Beach Cartagena
Visitors often describe Palmetto Beach as one of Cartagena’s hidden gems. It’s affordable, full of family-friendly activities, clean and safe. Palmetto Beach also offers exquisite views of the cityscape at sunset.
7. Playa Libre Cartagena
The remote Playa Libre Beach can only be reached by boat. Quiet and serene, it’s a peaceful spot away from the busier, more commercial sides of the islands.
8. Playa Castillo Grande
Playa Castillo Grande is an underrated beach on the Cartagena shore. Plenty of affordable cabanas are available to rent, and the sand is kept sparking clean. Most intriguing is the sea. At Castillo, few waves meet the shore, and the ocean itself acts almost lake-like. The calm is restorative.
9. Fisherman’s Beach
This peaceful beach in the La Boquilla fishing village, in Greater Cartagena, is one of the most tranquil locales.
10. Tierra Bomba
The beaches of Tierra Bomba are known for their extraordinary wildlife and natural beauty. Travelers can experience guided tours of the island’s unique flora and fauna. From the island’s Punta Arena beach, visitors can even explore by kayak.
As they do, they may reach the Castle of San Luis de Bocachica; Tierra Bomba’s island harbor is one of the few ports to the centuries-old fort.
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