Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina

Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina Must-Sees

Located in the Caribbean Sea, this Colombian archipelago comprises San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina. The islands are defined by the 'sea of seven colors,' a phenomenon caused by varying water depths and coral reefs. San Andrés features urban beaches like Spratt Bight and geological formations like Hoyo Soplador, while Providencia offers a more secluded environment. The region's Raizal culture is preserved through traditional wooden architecture and sites like the Casa Museo Isleña, reflecting a mix of African, European, and Caribbean influences.

Archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina Must-Sees — Map

Gessyka Marcandal / CC-BY-SA

A

Spratt Bight

The main urban beach of San Andrés, featuring a wide boardwalk, white sand, and views of the nearby Johnny Cay coral islet.

Gustavo Lajus / CC-BY-SA

B

Hoyo Soplador

A natural blowhole at the southern tip of the island where seawater erupts through a coral rock chimney during high tides or strong swells.

Gustavo Lajus / CC-BY-SA

C

La Piscinita

A natural pool formed by coral cliffs on the western coast, known for calm, transparent waters and high concentrations of tropical fish.

Gessyka Marcandal / CC-BY-SA

D

West View

An eco-park on the rocky western shore featuring a diving board, a slide into the ocean, and snorkeling access to an underwater statue.

E

Cueva de Morgan

A coral cave system associated with legends of pirate Henry Morgan's hidden treasure, including a museum dedicated to pirate history and island folklore.

F

Scuba San Andres

Diving center offering PADI courses and guided excursions to the archipelago's coral reefs, walls, and shipwreck sites.

G

Karibik Diving

PADI-certified dive center providing equipment rentals and boat trips to various diving spots around the island's marine platform.

H

Viewpoint La Loma

Located in the oldest neighborhood on the island, this elevated point offers views of the surrounding Caribbean Sea and the historic Baptist Church.

I

Mirador del Jardin Botanico

A 12-meter observation tower within the San Andrés Botanical Garden, providing 360-degree views of the island's forest canopy and coastline.

Joao Carlos Medau / CC BY 2.0

J

Playa San Luis

A beach area on the eastern coast known for its traditional wooden houses and a more relaxed environment compared to the northern urban center.

K

Sound Bay

A section of San Luis beach characterized by its coral sand and proximity to local restaurants serving traditional Raizal seafood dishes.

L

I ♥ San Andres

A large landmark sign located along the northern coastal road, serving as a popular photographic point with the Caribbean Sea in the background.

M

Casa Museo Isleña

A museum housed in a traditional island residence that showcases Raizal history, 19th-century artifacts, and the architectural styles of the archipelago.

Blazerbryant / CC BY-SA 4.0

N

Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport

Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport is the main airport in the archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina, one of…

O

El Embrujo (PVA)

El Embrujo Airport is an airport serving Providencia Island, Colombia.