Spend a relaxed day on Barú’s private Banana Beach: a 50‑minute drive from Cartagena followed by a short coastal boat ride to white sand, shallow turquoise water, and a small beach club. Ideal for swimmers, sun seekers and easy snorkeling.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The salt air hits first—warm, mineral and a little sharp—then the beach opens: a ribbon of white sand and shallow turquoise that pushes and pulls at your pace. Banana Beach sits on Barú, the low-lying island south of Cartagena where Caribbean currents and sediment have built wide beaches and fringing reefs. For a six‑hour outing you’ll travel by executive car from Cartagena (roughly a 50‑minute transfer) and finish with an 8‑minute coastal boat hop to the private Banana Beach club.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity—no sustained hiking; suitable for most fitness levels who can walk on sand and board a small boat.
Wildlife
History
Barú was historically a fishing and agricultural area; white‑sand beaches grew in prominence as day‑trip destinations from Cartagena in the 20th century.
Conservation
Coral and mangrove habitats near Barú are sensitive; use reef‑safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and pack out all trash to limit local impacts.
Reserve your spot on the Banana Beach on the white beach of Baru today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Take reef‑safe sunscreen
Many local reefs are sensitive—choose mineral sunscreen to protect coral and reapply often in the sun.
Bring cash and ID
Small vendors and the beach club may accept cash only; bring ID for pickup and transfers.
Wear reef shoes for snorkeling
Shallow reefs and rocky spots can be sharp; lightweight reef shoes protect feet when entering the water.
Book an early pickup
Morning departures avoid the strongest sun and offer calmer water for snorkeling and photos.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin and local coral from harmful chemicals.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during sun exposure—fresh water is limited on the beach.
Reef shoes or water sandals
Protect feet from sharp shells and rocky reef edges when snorkeling.
summer
Light daypack and dry bag
Carry essentials and keep electronics dry during the short boat transfer.