Last weekend we had our first boat adventure out to the Rosario islands last weekend and it was quite the experience. We chartered a boat with friends and headed off in a drizzly morning out to the Islas del Rosario to check out the Oceanarium and Playa Agua Azul.
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Getting to the Rosario Islands
Our boat ride out was pretty quick, passing by Tierra Bomba and heading out towards the Rosario Islands. The Rosario Islands are a small archipelago off Colombia’s Caribbean coast, located southwest of Cartagena. Known for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white-sand beaches, the islands are part of a protected national park that preserves rich marine biodiversity. Visitors are drawn to the Rosario Islands for snorkeling, diving, and relaxed island escapes, where mangroves, tropical fish, and vibrant coral ecosystems come together for a tropical paradise.
Along the way we saw some beach houses that barely had any beach along the way and then we pulled right up to the Oceanarium. A nearby tropical storm had caused some flooding, so we cruised right up into ankle-deep water and got to exploring. I may have made friends with a pelican, if he would have followed me back onto the boat, I would have taken him home.
I’m not sure he was a permanent resident, but he definitely enjoyed the free lunch!
The Oceanarium
The Oceanarium itself is small but charming, wood planked pathways take you through each exhibit, with tidal flows passing under your feet. The guide speaks in Spanish but that doesn’t stop you from enjoying the show and getting the full experience.
Trying to enjoy what the Oceanarium had to offer and being aware of dolphins and other animals performing in captivity was a struggle for me. I believe most of these animals would rather live free in the wild, but I felt better they were actually living in natural sea water with regular tidal activity than a chlorinated tank.
Playa Agua Azul
Then it was time to say good bye to the Oceanarium and head to our next stop, so back on the boat we went to find a beach. We passed by some smaller islands before settling on Isla Baru, Agua Azul Beach!
It was perfect. White sand, shells, and not too crowded. We stayed and played and I would go back in a heartbeat. I’m glad we were able to visit the Rosario Islands and experience the serene beaches. We are excited to see more of what Colombia has to offer.
If you enjoyed reading about our trip to the Rosario Islands, check out another great day trip from Cartagena, the Volcan Totumo. It’s the perfect unique experience just a short drive from the City.
exploring:
How very cool!