Friends, ready for a Caribbean island with seven shades of blue and a culture that blends Colombian, Caribbean, and Creole roots?

San Andrés is small (22 sq mi) but stacked with clear-water coves, easy shore days, and standout diving. Use this guide to nail the logistics—getting there, where to stay, what it costs—and the best things to do.

Why Go

San Andrés is officially Colombia, yet sits closer to Nicaragua—meaning cheap domestic flights, no passport control if flying from Colombian cities, and a totally different vibe than the mainland. Expect crystal visibility for snorkeling/diving, calm beaches for families, and welcoming island culture.

Getting There

Fly—there’s no passenger ferry. Direct domestic flights commonly run about $50–$70 USD each way from Bogotá, Medellín, or Cartagena (weekends/holidays cost more; checked bags can double your fare). Airlines may ask for proof of onward/return travel at check-in.

Entry Fee

All non-residents pay a mandatory island entry card at the airport before departure: 127,000 COP (~$32 USD, cash in COP; updated March 2024). Keep the card—staff will check it on arrival.

Where Stay

- Centro/North End: Walk-to-beach convenience, shops, and tour desks. Midrange hotels often $70–$140 USD per night in high season.

- San Luis Coast: Quieter beaches and breezy guesthouses; great for relaxed days.

- Boutique/Resort: Beachfront properties can exceed $150–$250+ USD in peak months.

Island prices for rooms and meals can be up to ~50% higher than mainland Colombia—book early for better value.

Getting Around

A ring road circles the island. Use taxis (agree on fare before riding), local buses along the coast, or rent scooters/buggies from in-town agencies (bring a license and ride cautiously). Carry cash—many small vendors are cash-only.

Diving 101

This is a bucket-list place to dive thanks to healthy coral and clear conditions.

- Certified divers: Shops run 2-tank boat trips to sites like La Rocosa and Los Recuerdos.

- New to diving: Book a Discovery Dive—a PADI pro handles skills and safety.

- No tanks, no problem: Try a helmet walk (aka sea-trek) to breathe normally while strolling on the seafloor—no prior experience needed.

Reserve in advance during December–April for best schedules.

Rocky Cay

A quick 5–10 minute ride from town, Rocky Cay pairs a sandy beach with a shallow leading to a tiny offshore islet (water can reach chest height—bring a dry bag). Expect gentle water, rentals for shade chairs, and snack stands. Arrive early for quieter space and wear water shoes for rocky patches.

West View

A protected, wave-free cove on the island’s west side that’s perfect for snorkeling. Entry ~7,000 COP (~$1.50 USD) includes access to ladders, platforms, and a small waterslide; lockers ~10,000 COP (~$2 USD); life jackets are typically free to borrow. Add-ons like snorkel rentals or a helmet walk are available on-site. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard.

Johnny Cay

The most popular offshore islet—10 minutes by boat from town. Return boats are sold at the main dock near the waterfront. Expect 20,000–30,000 COP ($4.40–$6.50 USD) for transport, or book a half-day tour with lunch (~$32.50 USD). Swim in clear shallows, stroll the perimeter paths, and plan your return time so you aren’t stuck during midday peak. Water shoes help around rocky spots and sea urchins.

Snorkel Circuit

String together a no-stress snorkel day: West View → La Piscinita (another calm cove) → Rocky Cay. Hire a taxi for point-to-point hops or negotiate a half-day driver rate. Always watch posted swim flags and follow lifeguard guidance.

Shopping Street

Avenida Costa Rica is lined with duty-free stores. Look for fragrances, sunglasses, chocolates, and electronics at lower-than-mainland prices. Compare receipts and warranty terms, and carry a small daypack for purchases.

Costs & Tips

- Meals: Casual plates often $8–$15 USD; beachfront settings cost more.

- Tours: Half-day boat/snorkel trips from $25–$40 USD; helmet walks vary by provider.

- Cash: ATMs sit in town, but machines can run low on weekends—withdraw early.

- Safety: San Andrés is generally calm; use routine travel smarts and avoid isolated areas after dark.

When To Go

Best weather: December–April (drier, sunnier). June–November brings rain, but crowds thin and prices dip. Book dives and boats early in peak months; go out in the morning for calmer seas.

Language Notes

Spanish is dominant; many locals speak English. You’ll also hear San Andrés–Providencia Creole, a local tongue with English roots—another layer of the island’s rich identity.

Wrap Up

San Andrés rewards simple plans: one dive (or helmet walk), one offshore mini-island, and one lazy beach circuit—plus a sunset stroll downtown. Friends, what’s your first move: bubbles beneath coral, a walk to Rocky Cay, or a Johnny Cay island hop?