About San Andres
San Andrés is the largest city and capital of the Colombian department of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina. Covering a land area of 27.586 km2 (10.651 sq mi), it had a population of 55,426 in 2005. Its economy is driven mainly by tourism, fishing, and agriculture. The island has a tropical climate with a marine ecosystem consisting of extensive coral reefs and diverse aquatic population, supported by various protected areas.
Places to visit in San Andres
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Johnny Cay
BeachA tiny palm-covered islet just north of town, ringed by white sand and clear water. Boats leave from the main beach in the morning, and swimmers should stay in marked areas since currents can be strong.
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Seaflower Biosphere Reserve
NatureA huge marine reserve covering the archipelago's coral reefs and the famed Sea of Seven Colors. Snorkel or dive with a licensed operator, and use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the corals.
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Hoyo Soplador
NatureA natural blowhole on the island's southern tip that shoots seawater into the air when the waves are high. Visit on a windy day for the best show, and stop at the nearby beach bars afterward.
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La Piscinita
BeachA rocky swimming spot on the west coast where clear water and colorful fish make for easy snorkeling. Rent gear on site, and bring water shoes for climbing in and out over the coral rocks.
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Morgan's Cave
HistoricA cave linked to the legend of the pirate Henry Morgan's hidden treasure, now part of a small cultural park. Expect folk dance shows and island history exhibits alongside the cave itself.
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Haynes Cay
BeachA small cay near Rose Cay where visitors wade in shallow water and often spot stingrays and baby sharks. Most boat tours combine it with the Acuario natural pool, so book a combined trip.
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Spratt Bight Beach
BeachThe main town beach next to the pedestrian boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants and hotels. It is busy and convenient, and makes a good base for booking boat tours to the nearby cays.
Top experiences in San Andres
Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 18 available.
Acuario Magico - Half-Day Tour
From $42 per adult
Nautilus Semi-Submarine Tour
From $39 per adult
Trip to Johnny Cay and visit to San Andres Aquarium
From $23 per adult
Tour of the island in Chiva
From $17 per adult
Tour around the Bay of San Andres
From $26 per adult
Full Day Hainz Cay with lunch
From $90 per adult
Explore San Andres Bay by Boat
From $39 per adult
The White Night Party Boat
From $114 per adult
Scuba Diving Tour
From $70 per adult
Diving Short Course
From $79 per adult
Diving Short Course without Transfer
From $73 per adult
Snuba in Paradise
From $38 per adult
Where to stay in San Andres
Popular hotels in San Andres, out of 151 properties you can book.
Decameron San Luis - All Inclusive
From $251 per night
Royal Decameron Marazul
From $346 per night
Hotel Tower by On vacation
From $157 per night
Hotel Blue Cove by On vacation
From $169 per night
Hotel Casablanca
From $196 per night
GHL Relax Hotel Sunrise
From $214 per night
Hotel Azure Lofts & Pool
From $126 per night
Hosteria Mar y Sol
From $53 per night
Sea Colors Hotel
From $99 per night
Hotel Calypso Beach
From $167 per night
Hotel Portobelo Plaza las Ámericas
From $134 per night
Hotel Caribbean On Vacation
From $168 per night
Best time to visit San Andres
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit San Andres is March, when average daytime highs are around 82°F and rain falls on about 6 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
San Andres weather forecast
- Wed 11 Nov 85° 82° 84%
- Thu 12 Nov 84° 78° 61%
- Fri 13 Nov 84° 83° 25%
- Sat 14 Nov 84° 83° 45%
- Sun 15 Nov 84° 82° 51%
- Mon 16 Nov 83° 79° 73%
Know before you go
- Currency
- Colombian peso (COP)1 US dollar ≈ $3,277
- Language
- Spanish
- Calling code
- +57
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/BogotaUTC−5
- Capital
- Bogotá
Upcoming public holidays in Colombia
- Independence of CartagenaIndependencia de Cartagena
- Immaculate ConceptionLa Inmaculada Concepción
- Christmas DayNavidad
- New Year's DayAño Nuevo
- EpiphanyDía de los Reyes Magos
- Saint Joseph's DayDía de San José
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to San Andres
These are the airports closest to central San Andres. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- ADZ Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport1 mi (1 km) from the city centre
San Andres travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit San Andres?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit San Andres is March, when average daytime highs are around 82°F and rain falls on about 6 days a month.
What is the weather like in San Andres?
September is usually the warmest month in San Andres, with average highs of 85°F (29°C). February is the coolest, with average lows of 79°F (26°C). The wettest month is typically October, with about 344 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to San Andres?
Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ) is the closest airport, about 1 miles (1 km) from the centre of San Andres.
What currency is used in San Andres?
San Andres uses the Colombian peso (COP). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ $3,277.
What time zone is San Andres in?
San Andres uses the America/Bogota time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
What are the best places to visit in San Andres?
Top sights in San Andres include Johnny Cay, Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, Hoyo Soplador and La Piscinita. A tiny palm-covered islet just north of town, ringed by white sand and clear water. Boats leave from the main beach in the morning, and swimmers should stay in marked areas since currents can be strong.
What are the top things to do in San Andres?
Popular experiences you can book in San Andres include Acuario Magico - Half-Day Tour, Nautilus Semi-Submarine Tour and Trip to Johnny Cay and visit to San Andres Aquarium. Destina Holidays offers 18 tours and activities here.
Where should I stay in San Andres?
Popular areas for hotels in San Andres include San Andres Island. Well-reviewed options include Decameron San Luis - All Inclusive and Royal Decameron Marazul.
How many hotels can I book in San Andres?
Destina Holidays currently lists 151 properties in and around San Andres, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
