Rosario Islands: 5-Stop Day Trip with Beach Clubs & Snorkeling

Summary

Cartagena’s Rosario Islands tour blends history, reef snorkeling, party energy and luxury beach clubs in one wild day

You’ll move from pirate tales at San Fernando Fort to snorkeling coral reefs off Isla Grande before chilling with drinks at Rosario del Mar Resort Hotel. Dance (or just watch) at Cholón Island’s floating party scene, then unwind over lunch at Mambo Beach Club on Barú—all capped by poolside lounging at Anaho Beach Club as Cartagena glows in the distance.

What’s the experience like?

We barely made it onto the boat before our guide, Andrés, handed out bottles of water and started chatting about the Fort of San Fernando. He told us how pirates used to circle these waters—he even pointed at a crumbling cannon and joked that it probably hasn’t fired since his grandmother was born. The air smelled like salt and sunscreen. I could hear cumbia from another boat drifting over as we walked up the old stone steps; honestly, I didn’t expect to start an island day trip with a history lesson, but it kind of set the mood for everything after.

The ride out to Isla Grande was choppy—my hat nearly flew off twice—and when we finally stopped at Encantada Beach Club, I still felt the engine’s hum in my bones. Snorkeling there was wild; the water was so clear you could see every twitchy fish and chunk of coral. Andrés gave us quick instructions (I definitely swallowed half the Caribbean trying to breathe through that tube), but seeing those colors under the surface? Worth every awkward moment. I remember surfacing and just floating for a second—sun on my face, salt on my lips.

Next came Rosario del Mar Resort Hotel. It’s got this low-key fancy vibe—white loungers everywhere, palms swaying like they’re showing off. We got a cold beer included (or juice if you wanted), and I ended up talking with a bartender named Luisa about her favorite beaches near Cartagena. She laughed when I tried to order in Spanish—I think my accent is hopeless—but she said “no worries” and poured me another splash anyway.

Cholón Island is loud in every sense: music thumping, people dancing knee-deep in the water, someone grilling fish nearby (that smoky smell sticks with you). If you’re not into parties…well, maybe skip this stop or just watch from the edge like I did for a while. Lunch at Mambo Beach Club on Barú was mellow by comparison—fried fish, plantains, that sort of thing—and you can upgrade if you want something fancier. The sand there is soft enough to make you forget time for a bit.

Anaho Beach Club felt almost surreal after all that noise—a huge pool looking out toward Cartagena’s skyline, jacuzzis bubbling away (extra fee though), and people either napping or taking selfies by the water. We lingered until sunset started painting everything gold. Even now I catch myself thinking about that last hour: tired in the best way possible, salty skin and all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Rosario Islands highlights

• Visit Fort of San Fernando
• Snorkel at Encantada Beach Club
• Relax at Rosario del Mar Resort Hotel
• Party at Cholón Island
• Lunch at Mambo Beach Club
• Unwind at Anaho Beach Club

Top questions

How long does this Rosario Islands tour last?

The full day trip usually lasts around 8 hours including all stops.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included during your stop at Encantada Beach Club on Isla Grande.

What kind of lunch is provided?

Your package includes COP $30,000 credit for lunch at Mambo Beach Club; options include fried fish, vegan or chicken dishes. You can pay extra for special menu items.

Are entrance fees covered?

Yes, entry fees such as Fort San Fernando are included in your booking price.

Is this tour suitable for older adults or people with health issues?

No, it's not recommended for older adults or travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to physical activity involved.

Does Cholón Island involve alcohol or parties?

Yes, Cholón Island is known for its lively party atmosphere where alcohol consumption is common.

Are there extra charges during the tour?

Certain extras like special lunch dishes or jacuzzi access at Anaho Beach Club require additional payment directly onsite.

Is personal insurance required?

The tour includes basic accident coverage but travelers should have their own comprehensive personal insurance as well.

What’s included

Your day includes local guide support throughout each stop in the Rosario Islands plus bottled water on board, use of snorkeling gear at Isla Grande’s Encantada Beach Club, entry to Fort San Fernando, a complimentary drink at Rosario del Mar Resort Hotel and COP $30,000 toward lunch options at Mambo Beach Club before returning by boat in late afternoon.