Just a few kilometers from our cabin, south of Cartagena de Indias, lies the Barú Peninsula, a corner of Colombia’s Caribbean coast famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back vibe. Although many know it as “Barú Island,” it’s actually connected to the mainland by a bridge, yet it still keeps the feel of a quiet, tropical island that travelers seek when they want to escape the bustle of the Historic Cente
How to get there?
Barú is located across from Cartagena Bay, within the area of the Corales del Rosario National Natural Park, a protected zone with rich marine biodiversity.
From Cartagena, there are two main ways to get there:
- By land: By bus or private vehicle to the Pasacaballos area, then a taxi to Playa Blanca or your chosen accommodation. The full trip usually takes between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on traffic.
- By sea: By speedboat from La Bodeguita Pier or Cartagena’s tourist port. It’s the fastest option (about 45 minutes) and is very common for full-day tours that combine Barú with the Rosario Islands.
Top beaches in Barú
Barú’s coastline is full of small bays and beaches that combine crystal-clear waters, light sand, and tropical vegetation. Some of the best known include:
- Playa Blanca: The most famous and one of the most beautiful beaches near Cartagena, and also the peninsula’s main public beach.
- Cholón, Agua Azul y Agua Tranquila: Smaller coves where you’ll find a mix of party-boat plans, local food, and quiet spots to relax.
What to do at Barú’s beaches?
- Enjoy the sea: swim, sunbathe, or simply walk along the shore. These are the classic Barú plans, thanks to its calm, clear water.
- Snorkeling and ocean adventures: Its proximity to the Corales del Rosario area makes it easy to enjoy snorkeling and other water activities arranged by local agencies.
- Local cuisine: On the beaches you’ll find kiosks and restaurants serving fresh fish, coconut rice, patacones, and other classic Caribbean coast specialties.
- Nature experiences: Nearby is the Aviario Nacional de Colombia, one of the country’s most important nature attractions, perfect for pairing a beach day with birdwatching.
Tips you must know for your visit
- Schedules: If you’re going for a day trip, it’s best to arrive early in the morning or after mid-afternoon to avoid the busiest hours at Playa Blanca.
- Protect the enviroment Barú is a fragile ecosystem, so it’s important not to leave trash behind, avoid touching the corals, and follow your guides’ instructions.