Let’s talk about beach getaways in Colombia. When most tourists think of Colombian beaches, they picture Cartagena: colonial charm, Instagrammable streets, and high-end beach clubs on white sand shores…and don’t forget the crowds. And while there’s a reason it’s so popular (Cartagena is gorgeous!), there’s another Caribbean escape that flies under the radar yet captures the heart of every Colombian: San Andres Island.
If you’re a remote worker (check out my guide!) or solo female traveler craving turquoise waters, Caribbean vibes, and something a little more authentic, San Andres might just be your new favorite destination. This is the beach trip Colombians take when they want to unwind like a local.
San Andres: Colombia’s Best-Kept Caribbean Secret
Located about 500 miles off the Colombian coast, closer to Nicaragua than the mainland, San Andres is a paradise of crystal-clear waters, reggae rhythms, and a unique Afro-Caribbean culture you won’t find anywhere else in Colombia.
Here’s why locals love it—and why you will too:
- Unreal Natural Beauty: They call it the “Sea of Seven Colors” for a reason. The water around San Andres literally shifts shades of blue and green depending on the time of day and where you’re standing.
- Chill Vibes, No Crowds: Unlike Cartagena’s bustling energy, San Andres moves to the beat of island time. You can rent a scooter or golf cart and cruise the island in under an hour, stopping at quiet beaches, blowholes, and beach shacks for cold coconut water.
- Affordability: San Andres is significantly more budget-friendly. Hotels, food, and activities are all cheaper, and you’ll still find cozy beachfront stays and fresh seafood aplenty.
- True Local Culture: This island isn’t trying to cater to tourists—you get a front-row seat to daily life, hear native Creole-English-Spanish hybrids, and dance to Caribbean beats without the curated tourist experience.
- Easy Digital Nomad Setup: While Wi-Fi isn’t blazing fast everywhere, many guesthouses and boutique hotels cater to remote workers. And yes, there are quiet beach spots where you can answer emails with your feet in the sand.
Best Things to Do on San Andres
- La Piscinita & West View: Natural sea pools perfect for snorkeling and swimming in calm, crystal-clear water.
- Johnny Cay & Acuario: Popular day trips by boat to pristine sandbanks and tiny islands where you can snorkel among stingrays and tropical fish.
- Rent a Golf Cart: The best way to explore the island—stop at scenic viewpoints, quirky local spots, and hidden beaches.
- Hit the Reggae Bars: Chill, dance, and vibe with locals at small beach bars that come alive at night.
- Try Rondon: This traditional island stew made with fish, coconut milk, yuca, and plantain is a must-try!
Safety and Solo Travel
As a solo female traveler, I felt safe in San Andres. The locals are friendly, the vibe is relaxed, and the streets are full of families and fellow travelers. As always, keep your usual solo travel smarts about you, but overall, it’s a welcoming spot for women exploring on their own.
Remote Work on Island Time
You won’t find coworking spaces on every corner, but many hotels and Airbnbs offer solid Wi-Fi and quiet spaces to get work done. The rhythm of island life actually helps you create a better work-life balance: start your day with emails, take a beach break, and close your laptop by sunset.
My Two Cents
Cartagena is beautiful, and it deserves the love it gets. But if you’re looking for a beach destination that feels more personal, more authentic, and more aligned with how Colombians vacation, San Andres Island is calling your name.