A top beach near Cartagena — 45 minutes by speedboat to 27 coral islands with turquoise Caribbean water, snorkelling, and eco-lodges. Playa Blanca on Isla Barú is the most accessible white sand beach.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
The Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) are the finest natural attraction near Cartagena — a national park of 27 coral islands with extraordinary Caribbean clarity, snorkelling among coral reefs, and a handful of eco-lodges and small resorts. Speedboats depart from Muelle Turístico near Getsemaní daily from 8am (approximately $50 return including entrance to the national park). Playa Blanca on the nearby Isla Barú is a stunning white sand beach accessible by the same boats. Day trips are excellent; overnight stays at IslaBela or Coralina Island are recommended for those with 5+ nights in Cartagena.
What Stands Out
- Best beaches near Cartagena
- 45-minute speedboat from Muelle Turístico
- Coral reefs and snorkeling
- 27 islands in the national park
- Playa Blanca — finest white-sand beach
- Day trip from $50 round-trip
- Overnight eco-lodges available
- 5+ nights recommended for a full island stay