Fodor's Caribbean Ports of Call by Fodor's Travel

Author:Fodor's Travel
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Fodor's Travel, Internet Brands
Published: 2017-02-13T16:00:00+00:00

Beaches

Cartagena—although a city almost totally surrounded by water and with the Caribbean once her very walls—is quite simply not a beach destination. Time and money is much better spent here getting lost wandering cobbled streets between shady plazas and every now and then dipping into the city’s ever-growing gastronomic scene. The most popular nearby beaches options have lost much of their appeal as tourism has boomed, although a great beach day can be had if you head into it with reasonable expectations.

Bocagrande, although a cheap taxi ride away, will disappoint most beach lovers. It offers only a strip of gray-tinged sand tucked up against a busy road lined by towering apartment buildings and hotels. Beachgoers will be constantly hassled by traders and insistent masseurs.

Though much more attractive with white sands and clear waters, the much loved Playa Blanca has suffered from the bridge connecting Barú Island to the mainland, seeing the beach fill up with vendors, particularly on the arrival of the tour boats from the harbor. Relaxation is often ruined by constant sales pitches for massages, beach chairs, and Jet Ski rides. Easy access has also led to an increase in petty crime, so keep an eye on your valuables at all times, and avoid being isolated or on the beach at odd hours.

The best bet to get your feet wet is a tour to the coral archipelago, Las Islas del Rosario. Though the coral reefs around the islands have suffered bleaching from recent high temperatures and have lost much of their previous splendor, a day out snorkeling or diving will be a pleasure for all but hardened scuba enthusiasts. Visibility is usually good, and there is still plenty of coral and sealife to be found. Daytrips to the islands can be arranged from the harbor, but the hassle and risk of scams is not worth it. Instead, you will get a much better tour—and quite possibly a better price—if you join a tour organized by your hotel.

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