Unearth The Voyage
Stepping onto white sand so soft it feels like powder, gazing at water so clear you can count fish from the shore, and exploring tiny islands that look like they belong on a postcard is what San Andrés, a Colombian island in the western Caribbean, offers and more for travelers hunting the perfect spring getaway in 2026. With coral reefs teeming with life, shallow sandbars you can walk across, and a kaleidoscope of blues and greens stretching to the horizon, this destination delivers a tropical escape without the usual Caribbean price tag.
1. The Sea of Seven Colors Views
San Andrés earned its nickname honestly. When you fly into the island or stand at almost any shoreline, you will notice something extraordinary: the water shifts through seven distinct shades of blue and green.
Coral reefs just offshore create natural barriers that scatter sunlight in different ways, painting the sea in turquoise, sapphire, emerald, and every hue in between.
Even the official tourism board highlights this color spectrum as a signature experience. No special tour or expensive excursion needed.
Just show up, look out, and prepare to be amazed.
The best vantage point is from the air during your arrival, but shoreline spots around the island offer stunning views too. Bring your camera because photos rarely do justice to the real thing.
Morning light tends to show off the colors most vividly, especially when the sun hits the water at just the right angle.
This natural phenomenon is what sets San Andrés apart from other Caribbean destinations. It is not just marketing hype.
Visitors consistently mention the water colors as a highlight of their trip, and it costs absolutely nothing to enjoy.
2. Spratt Bight Beach
Right in the heart of San Andrés town sits the island’s most accessible stretch of sand. Spratt Bight Beach delivers exactly what you want when you are too tired to plan: a simple, easy beach day with calm water and plenty of nearby services.
No boat rides, no complicated logistics, just walk from your hotel and you are there.
The beach runs along the main tourist strip, so restaurants, shops, and bars are never more than a few steps away. Families love it because the water stays shallow for a good distance out, making it safe for younger swimmers.
The sand is clean, and local vendors offer chair rentals if you forgot your towel.
Because it is so central, Spratt Bight gets busy during peak hours, especially mid-afternoon. Early morning visits reward you with quieter shores and better photo opportunities.
The beach also comes alive at sunset when locals and tourists gather to watch the sky turn pink and orange over the water.
If you only have time for one beach day and want convenience over seclusion, this is your spot. It may not be the most remote or untouched, but it perfectly balances accessibility with that classic Caribbean vibe.
3. Johnny Cay Regional Park
Johnny Cay sits just a short boat ride from San Andrés and consistently ranks as one of the top must-do excursions on the island. Tour boats leave regularly from the main harbor, making the trip simple and affordable.
Once you step onto the sand, you will understand why this place appears on every San Andrés itinerary. The beach wraps around the small cay in a near-perfect circle, giving you endless spots to lay down a towel.
Reggae music often drifts from small beach shacks selling cold drinks and fresh seafood.
Snorkeling gear comes in handy here, though the real attraction is simply wading in the shallows and soaking up the postcard scenery. The cay is small enough to walk around in under an hour, but most visitors find a shady spot and stay put for the afternoon.
Weekends can get crowded with day-trippers, so weekday visits offer a more peaceful vibe.
Johnny Cay is not just popular with tourists. Locals love it too, which tells you everything you need to know about its appeal.
4. El Acuario and Rose Cay
Walking in the middle of the sea with water barely reaching your knees is exactly what happens at El Acuario, a shallow sandbar that feels more like an optical illusion than a real place. The water here stays around one meter deep, creating a natural wading pool surrounded by deeper blues on all sides.
Tour operators call this one of the most iconic stops on the island, and for good reason. Brightly colored fish dart around your ankles as you walk, and the sandbank stretches far enough that you can explore without ever losing your footing.
Snorkelers love it because the shallow depth makes fish-watching easy even for beginners.
Rose Cay sits right next to El Acuario, and most boat tours hit both spots in one trip. The scenery is almost surreal: you stand in crystal-clear water with nothing but horizon in every direction.
It is one of those experiences that makes you question whether the photos are even real until you are actually standing there.
Bring water shoes because the sandbar can have rough patches, and do not forget underwater cameras or waterproof phone cases. This is prime photo territory, and you will want proof that you walked across the sea.
5. Haynes Cay
Just a short distance from El Acuario sits Haynes Cay, a small island that pairs perfectly with a sandbar visit for an unforgettable day on the water. Lonely Planet specifically highlights this cay as an easy addition to your Acuario trip, and local boat captains often bundle the two stops together.
The proximity makes it simple to explore both without feeling rushed.
Haynes Cay offers a bit more shade and solid ground than the sandbar, giving you a place to rest between snorkeling sessions. The beaches here are quieter than some of the more popular spots, and the water stays shallow and calm near the shore.
Small restaurants on the island serve fresh fish and cold drinks, so you can refuel without heading back to the main island.
Snorkeling conditions around Haynes Cay rank among the best in the area. Coral formations sit close to shore, and fish populations thrive in the protected waters.
Even if you are not a strong swimmer, you can see plenty of marine life without venturing far from the beach.
The laid-back atmosphere makes Haynes Cay feel like a local secret, even though it is well-known among repeat visitors. It is less crowded than Johnny Cay but equally beautiful, striking that perfect balance between accessibility and tranquility.
6. Rocky Cay
Not every Caribbean adventure requires a boat. Rocky Cay, also called Cayo Rocoso, sits just offshore from one of the island’s beaches, and during low tide, you can often wade or even walk across to reach it.
This tiny rocky outcrop has become a favorite chill spot for visitors looking for something a little different from the typical beach day.
The cay itself is small and, true to its name, covered in rocks rather than sand. But that is part of its charm.
It feels more rugged and natural than some of the more polished tourist spots, and the views back toward San Andrés are fantastic. Bring your snorkeling gear because the waters around Rocky Cay hold plenty of surprises beneath the surface.
Many travelers pair a Rocky Cay visit with a beach day at nearby San Luis or Sound Bay. The combination gives you variety: soft sand for lounging and rocky exploration for adventure.
The cay is not developed or commercialized, so you will not find vendors or facilities. Pack water and snacks if you plan to spend time exploring.
Rocky Cay proves that sometimes the best experiences are the simplest ones. No guided tours, no entrance fees, just you and a tiny piece of Caribbean coastline waiting to be discovered.
7. La Piscinita
Snorkeling can be intimidating if you are dealing with waves and strong currents. La Piscinita solves that problem beautifully.
This natural pool on the island’s eastern shore offers some of the calmest, clearest snorkeling conditions you will find anywhere in San Andrés. Lonely Planet specifically flags it as a top snorkeling site, and locals agree.
The name translates to “little pool,” which perfectly describes the setup. Rocky formations create a protected area where the water stays calm even when the surrounding sea gets choppy.
Fish gather in impressive numbers here, drawn by the shelter and the tourists who feed them. Visibility is excellent, so even beginners can enjoy watching the underwater show.
La Piscinita is small, so it can feel crowded during peak tourist hours. Arriving early in the morning gives you the best experience, with fewer people and better light for underwater photography.
There is a small entrance fee, and local guides offer gear rentals if you did not bring your own.
The site is not just for snorkelers. Even if you prefer to stay on the surface, the water is so clear you can see fish and coral from above.
It is one of those rare places where the hype is completely justified, delivering exactly what it promises without disappointment.
8. West View
Tripadvisor reviews do not lie, and West View consistently earns top marks from visitors who come for the water clarity and marine life. This popular swimming and snorkeling spot on the western side of the island has become a must-visit for anyone serious about seeing what lives beneath the Caribbean surface.
The site is developed with stairs and platforms that make water access easy for all skill levels.
What makes West View special is the combination of deep, clear water and abundant sea life. You are not just looking at sand and a few small fish.
Larger species cruise through regularly, and the coral formations are impressive. The water here is deeper than at La Piscinita, so it feels more like open-water snorkeling but with the safety of being close to shore.
There is a small entrance fee, and the site includes changing areas and equipment rentals. Local guides often hang around offering to point out the best spots or take underwater photos for a tip.
The facilities are basic but clean, and the staff keeps the area well-maintained.
Crowds can be an issue during midday when tour buses arrive, but early morning and late afternoon visits offer more elbow room. West View deserves its reputation as one of the island’s top attractions, delivering memorable underwater encounters without requiring a boat trip.
9. Old Point Mangrove Regional Natural Park
Not every Caribbean adventure involves beaches and snorkeling. Old Point Mangrove Regional Natural Park offers a completely different side of San Andrés, one where twisted mangrove roots create natural tunnels and birds outnumber beachgoers.
This protected area is promoted specifically for ecotourism, with activities like kayaking, hiking, and wildlife observation taking center stage.
Kayaking through the mangroves feels like entering another world. The water turns murky green beneath the dense canopy, and the only sounds are your paddle dipping and birds calling from the branches.
Guides point out crabs scuttling along roots, fish darting through the shallows, and occasionally larger creatures like rays gliding beneath your kayak.
The park also includes walking trails that wind through the mangrove forest, offering a chance to stretch your legs and learn about the ecosystem. Interpretive signs explain how mangroves protect coastlines and provide nurseries for marine life.
It is educational without feeling like a boring school trip.
Old Point provides a welcome break from beach time, especially if you have been snorkeling for days and want something different. The park is less crowded than the main tourist sites, and the cooler temperatures under the mangrove canopy feel refreshing after hours in the sun.
Bring bug spray and water, and prepare for a gentler, quieter kind of adventure.
10. San Luis Beaches
Sometimes you just want to escape the crowds and find your own stretch of sand. San Luis, a village area on the eastern side of San Andrés, delivers exactly that.
Colombia’s official tourism site highlights these beaches as quieter alternatives to the main-town stretch, and locals know them as some of the best places to unwind without the tourist bustle.
The San Luis coastline is not heavily developed, which means fewer beach clubs and vendors but more natural beauty. The sand is just as white, the water just as clear, but the vibe is more relaxed.
You will see more Colombian families on weekend picnics than international tour groups, which gives the area an authentic local feel.
Several small beaches dot the San Luis area, each with its own character. Some have gentle waves perfect for swimming, while others get a bit more surf.
Coconut palms provide natural shade, and the lack of commercial development means you can actually hear the waves instead of reggaeton blasting from speakers.
Getting to San Luis is easy by rental scooter or taxi, and the village itself has a few casual restaurants serving fresh seafood. If you are staying in the main tourist zone and feeling overwhelmed by the crowds, a day trip to San Luis offers the perfect reset without traveling far.
11. Sound Bay
When travel guides describe Sound Bay, words like “waves,” “scenery,” and “local feel” come up repeatedly. This San Luis-area beach has earned a reputation as the go-to escape from downtown, especially for visitors who want more nature and fewer crowds.
The beach faces the open Caribbean, so the water here has more movement than the protected western shore.
Sound Bay is longer and less developed than Spratt Bight, giving you room to walk and explore. The waves make it less ideal for small children but perfect for anyone who enjoys body surfing or simply watching the sea roll in.
The scenery is stunning, with dramatic clouds often gathering over the water and creating those perfect golden-hour photo opportunities.
The area around Sound Bay feels more residential than touristy. You will see local homes tucked among the palms and small shops selling basics rather than souvenirs.
A few beach bars serve cold beer and fried fish, but the vibe is low-key and unpretentious. This is where locals come to relax, not to work the tourist trade.
If your ideal Caribbean beach day involves more solitude and natural beauty than organized activities and vendors, Sound Bay deserves a spot on your itinerary. Bring your own towel and drinks, and prepare to enjoy the island at its most authentic.
12. Big Pond Lagoon
Who expects to find freshwater wildlife in the middle of a Caribbean island? Big Pond Lagoon, located in the La Loma area, surprises visitors with its completely different ecosystem.
The official tourism write-up describes this central freshwater lagoon as a prime spot for wildlife watching, with caimans, iguanas, turtles, and birds all calling it home.
The lagoon sits inland, surrounded by vegetation that creates a stark contrast to the beaches just a short distance away. Walking or biking trails circle the water, giving you multiple vantage points for spotting wildlife.
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see animals when they are most active and the heat is less intense.
Bring binoculars if you have them, and move quietly along the trails. Caimans often sun themselves on the banks, and iguanas perch in trees overhanging the water.
The bird population is impressive, with both resident species and migratory visitors depending on the season. Local guides offer tours that include detailed information about the lagoon’s ecology and conservation efforts.
Big Pond Lagoon is not the main reason people visit San Andrés, but it adds depth to your trip. After days of beach hopping and snorkeling, exploring a freshwater habitat provides a refreshing change of pace and reminds you that islands contain more diversity than first meets the eye.
13. First Baptist Church and La Loma Viewpoint
History and views combine at the highest point on San Andrés. The First Baptist Church, dating back to 1847, stands as the oldest church on the island and represents a fascinating piece of Caribbean history.
According to VisitSanAndres, the building was constructed from pine wood brought all the way from Alabama, reflecting the island’s historical connections to the American South and its English-speaking heritage.
The church itself is beautiful in its simplicity, painted white with traditional lines that have stood for nearly two centuries. But the real draw for many visitors is the location.
Sitting at La Loma, the island’s highest point, the church grounds offer panoramic views that stretch across the entire island and out to the surrounding sea.
On a clear day, you can see the full spectrum of blues and greens that make up the Sea of Seven Colors, plus the layout of the island’s roads and beaches. The elevation provides a completely different perspective than shoreline views, helping you understand the island’s geography and small size.
It is one of the best photo spots on San Andrés, especially during golden hour when the light turns warm and soft.
The church is still active, so be respectful if you visit during services. Otherwise, it is open to visitors who want to explore a bit of island history while enjoying some of the best views available.
14. Jardín Botánico de San Andrés
Gardens might not top your list of beach vacation activities, but the Botanical Garden of San Andrés offers more than just plants. This recognized space serves as both an environmental education center and a research facility, with a special bonus: a lookout tower that provides sweeping views of the island and surrounding waters.
It is education and scenery rolled into one compact visit.
The garden showcases native and tropical plant species, many labeled with information about their uses and ecological importance. Walking the paths provides a shady break from beach time, and the variety of flora is impressive for such a small island.
Butterflies and hummingbirds often flit between flowers, adding movement and color to the experience.
The real highlight is climbing the observation tower. From the top, you get 360-degree views that rival those from La Loma but with a different vantage point.
You can see how the island’s vegetation changes from coast to interior, and the elevated position offers excellent photo opportunities of the surrounding seascape.
The garden is not heavily promoted or crowded, which makes it feel like a hidden gem. Entry fees are minimal, and the peaceful atmosphere provides a welcome contrast to busier tourist sites.
If you appreciate nature beyond beaches and want to learn something about island ecology, the botanical garden deserves an hour of your time.
15. Morgan’s Cave
Every good Caribbean island needs a pirate legend, and San Andrés delivers with Morgan’s Cave. Named after the infamous privateer Henry Morgan, this themed attraction combines history, legend, and a bit of adventure into one underground experience.
VisitSanAndres describes it as a site centered on Morgan legends, complete with stations and a small museum component that brings the stories to life.
The cave itself is a natural formation that has been developed for tourism, with pathways, lighting, and interpretive displays. Guides lead you through the cavern while sharing tales of buried treasure, hidden passages, and Morgan’s Caribbean exploits.
Some stories are documented history, others are colorful legends, but all make for entertaining storytelling as you explore the underground chambers.
The cave stays cool year-round, making it a refreshing break from the tropical heat outside. Rock formations create interesting shapes, and the guided walk-through takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on group size.
The small museum at the entrance displays artifacts and information about pirate history in the region, adding context to the cave experience.
Morgan’s Cave is not a major natural wonder, but it is a fun diversion that adds variety to your trip. Kids especially enjoy the pirate theme, and the combination of storytelling and exploration makes it more engaging than just another beach day.
It is history and entertainment packaged together in a cool, dark cave.
