6 Things To Do in San Andres: The Insanely Beautiful Tropical Island You Didn’t Know Existed
Is it possible there is a tropical island you didn’t know existed? Probably! San Andres is an idyllic Caribbean island located off the coast of Nicaragua. This small island is a tropical paradise, boasting crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush vegetation. The 10 square mile island and its sister island, Providencia belong to the South American country of Colombia. In fact, most people don’t even realize San Andres exists. Recently, however it is becoming a more popular destination for tourists. The island is home to a wide range of activities, from swimming and snorkeling to canoeing and fishing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars, as well as a few small shopping centers.
So now you know about this insanely beautiful island. Let’s dive into some of the incredible things you don’t want to miss while you’re there.
#1 Thing to do in San Andres:
Visit San Luis for the most breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea
San Luis is a small but vibrant town in the Caribbean paradise of San Andres. Colombia. Located on the westernmost tip of the island, San Luis offers a unique mix of Caribbean culture, stunning beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
The town itself is home to a small population of locals, many of whom have lived in the area for generations. Here you will find colorful streets lined with traditional wooden houses and friendly locals. There are several small shops and restaurants in the area. You’ll find a wide array of local cuisine and products here.
The beaches of San Luis are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. With white sand and crystal blue waters, the beaches here are perfect for soaking up the sun or taking a dip in the sea. The area is also home to some of the best water sports in the region, such as kite boarding and jet skiing.
The culture of San Luis is something that really sets it apart from other towns in the region. With its mix of Afro-Caribbean and European influences, the town has a unique atmosphere that is full of life. Music and dancing are a big part of the culture here. Visitors will often find local musicians playing in the streets or in the local bars.
San Luis is a great destination for anyone looking for a relaxing beach break with a bit of culture. You’re going to love the stunning beaches, friendly locals, and unique culture, it is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation on the island of San Andres.
#2 Thing to do in San Andres:
Take a boat ride to the famous Aquarium
Planning a trip to the Aquarium (El Acuario) in San Andres Colombia is an experience you won’t forget. This marine sanctuary is a popular tourist destination. It’s home to an array of fascinating marine life, including numerous baby reef sharks, an abundance of colorful coral, and some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see.
As you make your way along the Aquarium’s extensive tour paths, you’ll be mesmerized by the sheer variety of marine life. Schools of baby reef sharks swim gracefully above the coral reefs, while colorful tropical fish dart in and out of the crevices. The coral life is absolutely spectacular. You’ll find an array of shapes, sizes, and colors that will leave you in total awe. As you make your way around the Aquarium, you’ll be amazed at the sheer depth and clarity of the water. You’ll see the deep blues of the ocean depths as well as vibrant greens and oranges of the coral life. These incredible hues will take your breath away.
You’ll also be impressed by the powder white sand that lines the Aquarium’s beaches. The pristine beaches provide a picturesque backdrop as you explore the Aquarium’s various exhibits. From the giant sea turtles to the gentle stingrays, you’ll be amazed at the sheer number of species here. So many varied species inhabit the waters around the “Aquarium”.
Taking a tour of the Aquarium in San Andres Colombia is a truly unforgettable experience. You’ll be left with incredible memories of the sheer beauty of this marine paradise. If you have an opportunity to take this tour, do it! You won’t be disappointed.
#3 Thing to Do in San Andres: Explore the laid-back island life
So many of the things you can do in San Andres involve the stunning and unique natural elements of the island. San Andres is known for its stunning natural blow holes, which are created by powerful waves crashing onto the shoreline. These blow holes are a sight to behold, producing spectacular sprays of water high into the air. You’ll even find a restaurant that has a blow hole you can watch while you wait for your food. The restaurant is called Punta Sur near the area known as Piscinita and it even has a swimming pool next to the ocean for an afternoon dip. You don’t even have to wait 30 minutes after you eat (wink)!
The island is also home to a number of shipwrecks, adding to its unique beauty. These shipwrecks, which date back to the 19th century, are scattered around the island and are a reminder of the island’s rich and varied history.
Reina del Mar Hotel is located on the island, providing visitors with a place to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, spa, and restaurant. The highlight of this hotel was the luxurious daybeds scattered beneath the palm trees just a few feet from the ocean. Guests are able to enjoy stunning views of the ocean, as well as explore the nearby islands.
In addition to the island of San Andres itself, the island is home to an incredible natural phenomenon: the island of La Piedra. La Piedra is only accessible by walking through five feet of ocean. You can do this from the beach at Reina Del Mar Hotel. This incredible island offers beautiful beaches and stunning views of the ocean, making it a must-see destination for visitors to San Andres.
San Andres is a truly unique Caribbean destination, with it’s natural wonders and historical sites. Its natural blow holes and scattered shipwrecks are a reminder of the island’s rich and varied history, while the Reina del Mar hotel and La Piedra island provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing holiday. These are just a few of the things you can do while visiting San Andres. And if unique natural locations are your thing…you’re going to love the next item on our list of things to do in San Andres.
#4 Thing To Do in San Andres:
Take a day trip to Morgan’s Cave
Imagine a day trip that includes the fascinating Morgan’s Cove in San Andres Colombia. It’s an adventure that you won’t forget! The crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches make for the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and exploration. You could start the day by enjoying a swim in the Caribbean Sea, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or lounge in the sun with a good book. After your morning swim, head to La Piscina Natural, a natural pool that is carved out of the rocks. Take a dip in the refreshing waters and spot the colorful fish swimming around you. For lunch, enjoy a delicious fresh seafood meal at one of the many beachfront restaurants. In the afternoon, take a boat ride around the cove to explore the surrounding islands, or take a guided tour of the nearby shipwreck. As the day comes to an end, relax on the beach and watch the sun set over the horizon. A day trip to Morgan’s Cove in San Andres Colombia is the perfect way to finish out a day in paradise!
Morgan’s Cove in San Andres Colombia is truly a unique natural paradise waiting to be explored. The crystal clear turquoise waters and majestic mountain views make a day trip to this gorgeous beach destination a must-do.
Upon arriving at Morgan’s Cove, you’ll be greeted with a stunning view of the Caribbean Sea. The powdery white sands and crystal clear waters make this beach a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach’s shallow waters are ideal for children, and the beach is enclosed by a coral reef, providing a peaceful and safe environment. You’ll get to explore the naturally occurring stalactites and stalagmites and hear local tales of pirates.
One of the best activities to do at Morgan’s Cove is snorkeling. The coral reef is home to a variety of tropical fish, and the shallow waters provide the perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant sea life. If you’re looking for a little more adventure, you can also rent a kayak or paddle board to explore the surrounding area.
After a day of fun in the sun, be sure to take some time to enjoy the local cuisine. From fresh seafood to traditional Colombian dishes, you won’t be disappointed with the variety of restaurants to choose from. Make sure to try the traditional Colombian dish, the Sancocho, which consists of chicken, beef, pork, and vegetables.
To top off your day trip, be sure to take a romantic stroll along the beach as the sun sets. The breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding mountains make for a perfect end to a perfect day.
A day trip to Morgan’s Cove in San Andres Colombia is sure to be a memorable experience.
#5 Thing To Do in San Andres:
Visit the old colonial fortifications of San Andres, built in the 16th century
San Andres, Colombia, is home to some of the oldest fortresses in the world. These forts have stood for centuries, and have played a pivotal role in the history of the region.
The most famous of these is El Morro de San Andres, a fortress located on the island of San Andres. Built by Spanish explorers in 1545, El Morro has served as a military stronghold and a defensive structure against invading forces. It is the oldest surviving Spanish fort in the Americas and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Also located in San Andres is the San Fernando fort, which was built by the Dutch in 1635. It was used by the Spanish to defend against the British and was also used by the Colombian army. It is now a museum and a popular tourist attraction.
The Fortaleza de San Luis is another historic fort located in San Andres. Built by the Dutch in 1635, it is the oldest surviving fort in the region. It was used as a defensive structure against the British, and was also the site of a battle between the Spanish and the French in 1781. The Fortaleza is now a museum and a popular tourist attraction.
Finally, the Castillo de San Andres is a castle located on the island of San Andres. Built in the 17th century, it was used to protect the island from British forces. It is now a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These forts have played an important role in the history of San Andres, Colombia. They have been witness to centuries of battles, conquests, and struggles. These forts are a testament to the strength and courage of those who built them.
#6 Thing To Do in San Andres:
Experience the Afro-Colombian culture
San Andres, Colombia is not only a stunning tropical island but it is renowned for Afro-Colombian music, traditional cuisine and vibrant art scene.
The music of San Andres is a mix of African and Caribbean rhythms. With its upbeat and soulful sound, Afro-Colombian music is a popular choice for festivals and celebrations. The traditional instruments used to create this music include the tambora, cuatro, maracas, and güiro.
The cuisine of San Andres is a delicious blend of African, Caribbean and Latin American flavors. Some of the most popular dishes include sancocho de gallina, fried fish, sancocho de costilla, and sancocho de congrio. Seafood dishes such as ceviche and mojarra are also popular.
The vibrant art scene in San Andres is a reflection of the island’s rich cultural heritage. The art of San Andres includes wood carvings, ceramics, paintings, and sculptures. Local art galleries showcase the work of emerging and established artists from the island.
So you see, San Andres is not just a tropical paradise. It’s an incredible Caribbean island with a unique and vibrant culture. The Afro-Colombian music, traditional cuisine and vibrant art scene are just a few of the reasons why this island is such a popular destination. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an exciting cultural experience, San Andres has something for everyone. But don’t take my word for it…go see for yourself this insanely beautiful tropical island that most people haven’t heard of – except now you have 😉
Safe Travels,
Jacqueline
