Playa Charquitos
A tranquil Caribbean paradise known for its 'Sea of Seven Colors' and family-friendly beaches like Playa Charquitos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Playa Charquitos
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil Caribbean paradise known for its 'Sea of Seven Colors' and family-friendly beaches like Playa Charquitos.
"Nicest beach for kids on the island. 1-2ft deep water inside the coral area."
🚗 Rent a 'Mulita' for Exploration
Explore the island at your own pace with a rented golf cart. Book in advance for better rates! :car:
👟 Beach Shoes are a Must
Protect your feet from rocks, especially in deeper waters at beaches like Charquitos. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playa Charquitos
Southern coast
A tranquil, shallow beach perfect for families, with crystal-clear waters teeming with small fish.
The Sea of Seven Colors
Surrounding San Andrés
Experience the breathtaking gradient of blues and greens that give the island its famous nickname.
Island Tour by 'Mulita'
Around the island
Rent a golf cart-like vehicle to explore hidden coves, scenic viewpoints, and local spots at your own pace.
Snorkeling Adventures
Various locations (e.g., El Acuario, Rocky Cay)
Dive into vibrant underwater worlds, encountering colorful fish and coral reefs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Pace
Pack for Paradise (and Protection)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a 'Mulita' for Exploration
Explore the island at your own pace with a rented golf cart. Book in advance for better rates! 
👟 Beach Shoes are a Must
Protect your feet from rocks, especially in deeper waters at beaches like Charquitos. :athletic_shoe:
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own or rent for exploring the vibrant marine life.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
High SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for a comfortable beach day. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a 'Mulita' for Exploration
Explore the island at your own pace with a rented golf cart. Book in advance for better rates!
👟 Beach Shoes are a Must
Protect your feet from rocks, especially in deeper waters at beaches like Charquitos. :athletic_shoe:
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own or rent for exploring the vibrant marine life.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
High SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for a comfortable beach day. :sunwithface:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry a reusable water bottle to refill and stay refreshed under the Caribbean sun. :droplet:
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Try local 'Fair Tables' for delicious and affordable traditional snacks. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Charquitos is widely praised as a beautiful, peaceful beach, especially ideal for families with young children due to its shallow, clear waters and abundant small fish. Visitors appreciate the calm atmosphere and scenic surroundings. However, some note that the water becomes rocky beyond waist-deep, making beach shoes a necessity.
"Visited while exploring the area by scooter — a very beautiful and peaceful beach. The water is crystal clear, but once you go further than waist deep it becomes quite rocky, so beach shoes are a must. The road leading to the beach is very scenic, which makes the ride there just as enjoyable as the stop itself."
elsa doka
"Nicest beach for kids on the island. 1-2ft deep water inside the coral area. Kids love it. Lots of little fish and critters swimming around and water is basically crystal clear."
Chris Frisby
"Very nice place warm clear water, please dont miss."
Alberto Ventura
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most international visitors arrive via flights to Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ) in San Andrés. Airlines like LATAM and Avianca often have routes from major Colombian cities and some international hubs. +1
Renting a 'mulita' (a small, golf cart-like vehicle) is a popular and fun way to explore the island. Scooters and taxis are also available.
While not extensive, local buses do operate on the island, primarily connecting the main town to different beaches. Taxis are readily available for hire.
Yes, San Andrés is accessible from various international locations, often with a layover in mainland Colombia. Check with your preferred airline for direct or connecting flight options. +1
Flight prices vary greatly depending on your departure city, time of booking, and season. Booking in advance and being flexible with dates can help secure better deals. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Colombian citizens and foreign tourists typically need to purchase a 'Tarjeta de Turismo' (Tourist Card) upon arrival at the airport. This fee helps fund island conservation efforts.
Most beaches in San Andrés are free to access. However, some private beach clubs or specific attractions within areas like 'El Acuario' might have separate entrance fees.
Rental prices for 'mulitas' or scooters can range from approximately $250,000 to $350,000 COP for a full day (9 am to 6 pm), depending on the vehicle size.
It's highly recommended to book popular tours, such as snorkeling trips or island circumnavigation, in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. +1
Operating hours can vary, but most beaches and natural attractions are accessible during daylight hours. Organized tours usually have set departure and return times.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Playa Charquitos is ideal for families, while Playa San Luis offers a more traditional beach experience. Johnny Cay is a popular islet for day trips. +1
Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, parasailing, exploring the island by 'mulita', visiting natural attractions like Hoyo Soplador, and enjoying boat tours. +2
Absolutely! Playa Charquitos is particularly well-suited for children due to its shallow, calm waters. Many boat tours also offer family-friendly options. +1
This phenomenon refers to the distinct shades of blue and green in the water caused by varying depths and coral reefs. It's visible all around the island, especially from elevated viewpoints or during boat trips. +1
Yes, some beaches, like Playa Charquitos, can become rocky beyond waist-deep. Wearing beach shoes is highly recommended to avoid injury.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss traditional dishes like 'Casao' (fish with coconut rice), 'carimañolas', and seafood empanadas. Try local fruits and refreshing drinks. +1
Look for 'Fair Tables' which offer delicious ancestral snacks and meals at very reasonable prices, typically between $5,000 and $10,000 COP.
Yes, many restaurants and beach clubs are located along the coast, offering stunning sea views along with their culinary offerings. Playa Marrakech is noted as a beach club.
Enjoy fresh coconut water, tropical fruit juices, and local cocktails. Artisanal ice cream from places like @artigianigelateriaartesanal is also a hit.
Dining prices can vary. While some upscale restaurants exist, you can find very affordable and delicious meals at local eateries and 'Fair Tables'.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Sea of Seven Colors', Playa Charquitos with its clear waters, the colorful 'mulitas', and scenic viewpoints like WestView Point offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) provide the best lighting for beach and landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
The 'I ❤️ SA' sign is a classic spot for a memorable photo. The colorful houses and vibrant street art also make for great shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive beach scenes. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for underwater shots while snorkeling.
Drone regulations can change, so it's advisable to check with local authorities or your accommodation provider before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When packing, include water shoes for rocky areas and plenty of sun protection. Look for restaurants offering kid-friendly options, and don't miss out on the delicious artisanal ice cream!
💰 Budget Travelers
Many of the island's most beautiful attractions, like Playa Charquitos and the general coastline, are free to enjoy. Focus on activities like swimming, snorkeling (bring your own gear if possible), and exploring the island's natural beauty to maximize your budget.
couples
Rent a 'mulita' and explore the island's scenic routes together, stopping at viewpoints for breathtaking photos. A private snorkeling or diving trip can also add an element of adventure and intimacy to your getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring San Andrés by 'Mulita'
+1 The rental typically includes a full tank of gas and covers a period from morning to late afternoon. Prices vary based on the size of the vehicle (2, 4, or 6 people) and the rental duration, with daily rates generally ranging from $250,000 to $350,000 COP. When planning your 'mulita' adventure, consider a route that includes key attractions like the Cueva del Morgan, the 'I ❤️ SA' sign, Hoyo Soplador, WestView Point, and the beautiful beaches of Playa Charquitos and Playa San Luis.
Many rental services offer pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, adding to the convenience. Remember to bring your driver's license and be aware of local traffic rules. Some travelers suggest that while a 'mulita' is fun, it's important to be mindful of the sun and wind, especially on longer drives. Wearing sunglasses and a hat is highly recommended.
The Family-Friendly Charm of Playa Charquitos
The crystal-clear visibility at Playa Charquitos allows visitors to easily spot small, colorful fish swimming around their feet, adding an element of wonder for younger travelers.
+1 The soft white sand provides a comfortable space for relaxation, and the generally uncrowded atmosphere offers a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. While the shallow areas are perfect for kids, it's worth noting that venturing further out can lead to rockier terrain. Therefore, bringing or purchasing beach shoes is a practical tip for anyone planning to explore beyond the immediate shoreline.
+1Culinary Delights: Tasting San Andrés
Popular 'Fair Table' items include 'carimañolas' (fried yucca fritters filled with meat), 'arepas de huevo' (corn cakes with egg), and empanadas, especially those filled with crab.
For those looking for a more relaxed dining experience with a view, several beachfront restaurants and clubs offer a range of seafood and international dishes. Playa Marrakech is mentioned as a beach club where you can enjoy mocktails and food with ocean views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit