The Rosario Islands is an archipelago located around 60km from the vibrant city of Cartagena. These islands are a true tropical paradise with crystal clear water and sandy beaches, and it’s the perfect place to visit to soak up some of that Caribbean sun.
The area is also part of the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park, which is home to one of the most extensive and diverse coral reefs along the Colombian coastline.
During my recent trip to Cartagena, I took a day trip to the Rosario Islands and I’d absolutely recommend checking out these islands while in Colombia.
In this post, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan the ultimate day trip to the Rosario Islands, including how to get there, the best boat tours, and things to do. Plus, I’ve included where to stay in the Rosario Islands in case you want to spend more time in this tropical paradise.
Why Take a Rosario Islands Day Trip
The Rosario Islands are easily one of the best day trips to take from Cartagena. Each island has a unique atmosphere and a wide variety of things to do, such as snorkeling, going to a beach club, relaxing at one of the beach resorts, or even swimming with dolphins.
So, if you are visiting Cartagena, the Rosario Islands are a perfect day trip option to explore more of Colombia.
How to Get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena
The main way to get to the Rosario Islands is by boat, and one of the most common ways is to take a speedboat from Cartagena. It’s also possible to drive from Cartagena to Isla Barú, the largest island.
The speedboats leave from the tourist port La Bodeguita Pier or Los Pegasos Tourist Pier and have daily departures at 8:30 am and 9 am, with return times at 3 pm and 4 pm. However, due to the popularity most boats fill up quickly, so make sure to book in advance.
If you want to do a Rosario Island day trip then I highly recommend taking a tour because it includes your transportation to the islands, and some tours include extras like lunch or snorkeling.
There are a few different options when it comes to boat tours so you can choose between taking a speedboat or renting a private boat.
One thing to note about the boat ride is that the water can get choppy, especially on the way back. This is why the tours will end earlier in the afternoon, around 3 or 4 pm.
Even with the earlier end time, it still can get wavy so if you are prone to seasickness I recommend packing these Seabands or some motion sickness patches. Let’s just say there was a moment on the ride back that we got pretty wet- but it was well worth the beauty and experience of going to Rosario Islands.
The Best Cartagena to Rosario Islands Day Trips
The easiest and best way to take a Rosario Islands day trip from Cartagena is a boat tour. Not only are boat tours fun, but they also make the logistics of transportation way easier – so that you can sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Below are some of the highest-rated and best day trips to Rosario Islands from Cartagena. Be sure to pack plenty of swimsuits for your trip to Cartagena, as well as other beach essentials like reef-safe sunscreen, sun hats, and beach reads.
1. Full-Day Rosario Islands Speedboat Tour
This speedboat group tour is a great way to experience the best of the Rosario Islands for an affordable price. On the tour, you’ll visit Isla Grande, Cholon, and Playa Blanca. Enjoy some relaxation on the beach, an included lunch, and some snorkeling and swimming in the beautiful blue water.
What’s Included in the Full-Day Rosario Islands Speedboat Tour:
- Roundtrip transportation from Cartagena
- Visit 3 islands
- Lunch included
- National park fees included
- Snorkel equipment
- Option to upgrade to a private tour
2. Private Boat Tour to the Rosario Islands
One of the best ways to experience the Rosario Islands is by taking a private boat tour. Not only does this give you a more personalized experience, but it is a great way to enjoy time with just your group. Plus, you even get to avoid crowds by departing from a private marina. This is definitely the way to go if you want a stress-free and relaxing experience.
We personally took a private boat tour as we went with my twin 4 year old boys. Having the flexibility to go at our own pace with the boys was perfect. Plus the staff was super friendly and helped with the kiddos, when needed. Be sure to pack all the essentials for a beach day with kids!
What’s Included in the Private Boat Tour to the Rosario Islands:
- Visit the islands of Cholon and Baru
- Speedboat with a captain and first mate
- Private experience for just your group
- Depart from a private marina
- Cooler with ice and a Bluetooth speaker on the boat
- Snorkel gear
3. Bora Bora Beach Club Full-Day Experience
If you’re on a trip without kids and are looking for more of a party atmosphere then this Bora Bora Beach Club Experience is a great choice. It includes transportation and access to one of the best beach clubs in the Rosario Islands, and you can spend your day sipping tropical cocktails and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
What’s Included in the Bora Bora Beach Club Full-Day Experience:
- Roundtrip transportation via speedboat to the Rosario Islands
- Welcome cocktail
- Lunch included
- DJ music
- Sunbed or sun loungers available
- Option to rent kayaks or paddleboards
4. Rosario Islands Tour with Option for Bioluminescent Night Swim
This tour includes a day trip to the Rosario Islands but also has the option to add on a night tour to swim with the Bioluminescent Plankton. The Plankton are microorganisms that light up the water in bright fluorescent shades as you swim through. Not only is this a unique activity, but this is one of the few places in the world where you can swim around Bioluminescent Plankton.
What’s Included in the Rosario Islands Tour with Optional Bioluminescent Night Swim:
- Speedboat tour to 5 places in the Rosario Islands, including a private island
- Snorkeling equipment
- Lunch voucher included
- Snacks and bottled water
- Option to book a night tour to swim with Bioluminescent Plankton
5. Catamaran Excursion around the Rosario Islands
This boat tour is a little different than the other tours because you’ll get to enjoy a day on the water on a spacious, smoother sailing Catamaran. During the excursion you’ll sail through the crystal clear waters surrounding the Rosario Islands, enjoying food, drinks, and some sun. Plus, you’ll anchor outside two islands for some swimming and snorkeling.
Note: This tour doesn’t dock at the islands, it anchors off the coast for swimming and snorkeling.
However, if you enjoy being out on a Catamaran this would be a good choice to enjoy a boat day with swimming and snorkeling while taking in the natural beauty of the area.
What’s Included in the Catamaran Excursion around the Rosario Islands:
- Sail around the crystal clear waters on a spacious Catamaran
- Ancor off the coast of 2 different islands for swimming
- Snorkel gear
- Lunch and soft drinks
Best Things to do on Rosario Islands
Not only are the Rosario Islands beautiful, but there is also plenty of things to do there. Below are some of the best things to do during a day trip to the Rosario Islands.
Explore the Different Islands
One of the best things to do on the Rosario Islands is to simply explore the different islands. Each island has a different atmosphere, from quieter islands like Isla Majagua to the party islands such as Cholon.
On the islands, you’ll also find different things to do such as relaxing on the beach, going to a beach club, or trying out some watersports like kayaking or paddleboarding.
My family and I hung out at San Pedro Majagua II, located on Isla Grande. It was a great hotel to relax by the beach- although the sandy area was rather limited. But that didn’t stop the kiddos from having a great time!
Rosario Island Oceanarium
The Oceanarium is easily one of the coolest attractions in the Rosario Islands. It’s similar to an aquarium but with seawater. The Oceanarium is considered a wildlife conservation center that is home to 1,400 animals from 140 marine species from the Caribbean.
At the Oceanarium, you’ll see many different tropical fish and marine life. They also have shark and dolphin shows, which my kids absolutely loved!
The highlight of this attraction is that you can also go swimming with the dolphins, which Marley and I took part of. It was most definitely an experience of a lifetime, at a fraction of the cost at Sea World!
Day Pass to a Beach Resort
There are many beach resorts in the Rosario Islands, but the good news is that some of them offer day passes. This allows you to enjoy the resort’s private beach and amenities during your Rosario Islands day trip. Some of the resorts that offer day passes include the Hotel San Pedro de Majagua, Eco Hotel Islabela, and Isla del Encanto.
Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is one of the most famous beaches in the Rosario Islands. It’s a true tropical paradise with its palm trees, beautiful azure waters, and soft white sand, which makes it perfect for a beach day.
The beach is popular so it can get crowded at times. There also can be quite a few vendors that will try to sell things or offer massages, so that can be a downside to this particular beach.
Fort of San Fernando
The Fort of San Fernando is a military fortress that was first constructed by the Spanish in the 17th century and has since been used to defend the city of Cartagena from pirates and other invaders. Many of the boat tours include a short tour of the historic fort to share its history and cultural significance.
Bora Bora Beach Club
If you are visiting without kids, and want a mix of partying plus relaxation, Bora Bora Beach Club is the perfect place to spend the day.
This private beach club is located on Isla Grande and has an upper level that overlooks the crystal clear Caribbean waters, and a lower level with direct beach access and sun loungers. Of course, there is also a DJ and dance floor.
If you’re looking to enjoy tropical cocktails and a fun party atmosphere, this day trip to Bora Bora Beach Club is a great choice.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a very popular thing to do in the Rosario Islands, and for good reason. The islands are part of the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Nature Park, and there are plenty of tropical fish, diverse coral reefs, and marine life to see while snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
Snorkeling is a highlight of visiting the Rosario Islands, so make sure to take a boat tour like this one that includes snorkeling gear and time for swimming.
Night Swimming with Bioluminescent Plankton
Swimming with bioluminescent plankton is a magical experience, as the microscopic plankton light up the surrounding water in fluorescent blue as you swim through.
This unique phenomenon can be experienced at night in the Enchanted Lagoon on Isla Grande. Since this requires darkness you would have to stay overnight on Isla Grande or take this day trip to the Rosario Islands with an option for a night swim with the Bioluminescent Plankton.
Where to Stay on the Rosario Islands
If you have more time during your trip to South America, then staying a few nights in the Rosario Islands is a perfect choice. There are a variety of resorts in the Rosario Islands, whether you are looking for a relaxing beach resort, a luxury stay, or a family-friendly hotel in Rosario.
Below, you’ll find a few of the best options for where to stay on the Rosario Islands.
Bora Bora Beach Club Hotel
⭐ Rating: 9.1/10 ☑️ Book Here
This resort is perfect for a luxury stay on Isla Grande. The rooms are modern and have a beautiful bohemian aesthetic. There are plenty of great amenities including a private beach area, restaurant & bar, and an outdoor pool with sun loungers. Additionally, the property is home to the popular Bora Bora Beach Club.
Hotel Playa Manglares Isla Baru
⭐ Rating: 9/10 ☑️ Book Here
This beachfront hotel on Isla Baru has a unique tropical vibe. The rooms are spacious with a light and airy style. Most rooms have hammocks to relax in and some even offer sea views. It’s a good place for families as there are family-sized rooms available, plus the hotel has a private sandy beach.
Hotel Las Islas
⭐ Rating: 9/10 ☑️ Book Here
Hotel Las Islas offers the chance to stay in beautiful wooden bungalows that overlook the sea or tropical forest. There are several different types of bungalows to choose from, including ones that have a private pool or jacuzzi. The hotel also has plenty of activities available, from water sports, a private beach, and even its own private island.
Is Rosario Islands Worth Visiting?
The Rosario Islands are absolutely worth visiting. The islands are beautiful and make up one of Colombia’s best national parks. It’s a perfect place to relax on a sandy beach and enjoy the natural beauty of the Caribbean coastline or go swimming in the clear, turquoise waters. Plus, it’s easy to take a day trip to the Rosario Islands from Cartegena, which is one of the most popular places to visit in Colombia.
FAQ: Rosario Islands
Below are some commonly asked questions that may be helpful to know when taking a day trip to the Rosario Islands.
The Rosario Islands are known for being a part of the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park. The national park status protects the islands and surrounding waters, which keeps the water clean and crystal clear. The area is also home to a diverse coral reef and marine life.
You can stay overnight in the Rosario Islands, and this is a great option for anyone who wants to spend more time near the beach to enjoy the beautiful azure waters. There are many highly-rated beach resorts in the Rosario Islands to choose from whether you are looking for a luxurious stay or a family-friendly beach resort.
The boat ride to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena takes around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on which island you are visiting and the sea conditions.
Isla Majagua is one of the quietest islands in Rosario. Isla Majagua is a private island which gives it a more calm and peaceful atmosphere compared to some of the other islands which can be more crowded or have more of a party vibe.
Conclusion: Day Trip to Rosario Islands
If you are planning a trip to Cartegena, then taking a day trip to the Rosario Islands is a perfect addition to your itinerary. Exploring the Rosario Islands is a great way to experience some of Colombia’s tropical beauty, plus it’s an ideal place for a beach day.
So whether you are looking to relax at the beach with family or spend the day at one of the popular beach clubs, the Rosario Islands is sure to be a great choice.
