Cartagena: Tierra Bomba Fort San Fernando Tour & Beach Lunch

Summary

Cartagena island day with fort tour local flavors & sandy pause

You’ll cross to Tierra Bomba Island for a guided walk through Fort San Fernando’s old stones, then settle into a quiet stretch of Cartagena beach for local lunch and some unexpected fun. Expect sea air, stories from your guide, and that odd sense of calm only islands seem to have.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the salt in the air—kind of sharp, mixed with fried plantain from somewhere nearby. We’d just stepped off the boat onto Tierra Bomba Island, and honestly, I was still shaking seawater off my sandals. Our guide, Andrés, waved us over with that easy smile locals seem to have here. He started telling stories about Fort San Fernando before we even reached it—something about pirates and cannons, but I got distracted by a kid chasing a crab across the sand. The fort’s stone walls felt rough under my palm, still cool from last night’s breeze.

Inside the fort, Andrés pointed out marks left by old battles—some cannonball dents you could fit your fist in. He asked if anyone wanted to try saying “Bocachica” properly (Li laughed when I tried; probably butchered it). The sun was already high, but there were pockets of shade where you could almost hear the sea through narrow windows. It’s strange how quiet it gets inside those thick walls—like Cartagena’s noise is miles away.

Lunch came right after—a plate of coconut rice and fish so fresh it almost flaked apart in my hands. Someone handed me a cold drink and I just sat back watching pelicans dive past the beach club. There was this little show after we ate (I won’t spoil it), but it made everyone clap—even the shy folks who barely spoke all morning. By then, sand stuck everywhere and I didn’t care; that mix of history and slow island hours sticks with you longer than expected.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Fort tour and beach club visit

• Walk tour inside Fort of San Fernando
• Relax at Playa Morena Beach Club
• Enjoy local island cuisine
• Watch surprise show

Top questions

How do you get to Playa Morena Beach Club from Cartagena?

The tour includes round-trip boat transport between Cartagena and Tierra Bomba Island.

Is lunch included on the Playa Morena Beach Club tour?

Yes, a typical island lunch is included as part of your day.

What is special about Fort San Fernando on Tierra Bomba?

The fort is one of Cartagena’s oldest military sites, right beside the beach club.

Are guides local on this Cartagena fort & beach tour?

Yes, tours are led by native guides from the island.

Is this day trip suitable for all ages?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

Are service animals allowed on this Tierra Bomba Island tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this experience.

What kind of food is served at lunch?

You’ll get typical island cuisine like coconut rice and fresh fish.

How long does the walking tour at Fort San Fernando take?

The walking portion covers key areas inside the fort next to Playa Morena Beach Club; timing varies but isn’t rushed.

What’s included

Your day covers round-trip boat transport from Cartagena to Tierra Bomba Island, entry to Playa Morena Beach Club facilities, a guided walk through Fort San Fernando de Bocachica with a native guide, plus a typical island lunch before heading back across the bay in the afternoon.