Why Colombia Is Irresistible: 6 Must-Have Experiences!

Relax on the island beaches near Cartagena

The Spanish colonial port city of Cartagena de las Indias is the place to go for a bit of history, but also to hit the beach and bask in the Colombian sun. While Cartagena has stretches of sandy beaches right within city limits, particularly in the Bocagrande area, the most picturesque are located on nearby islands a short boat trip away. Along Barú Island and the Rosario Islands (which also is a national park) the sand is as fine and white as it comes and the water is the color of bright blue and green gemstones. Many operators run between the main Cartagena port and the islands every day, which makes the trip easy, even if just for a day.