San Andres: Marine Snorkeling Tour & Floating Bars by Boat

Summary

Snorkel San Andres bays swim with rays music floating bars lunch

You’ll float through San Andres’ mangroves and reefs by boat, pausing to snorkel among starfish and neon fish with a local guide. Share beers at El Palito’s floating party before lunch on Haines Cay’s sandy shore (lunch not included). Swim alongside manta rays then end your day at lively floating bars as sunset colors spill across the bay.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much before noon. The boat picked us up right off the dock in San Andres, and honestly, I was still half-awake until our guide, Luis, cranked up the music — reggaeton mixed with that salty Caribbean air. There was this moment gliding through the Old Point Red Mangroves where everything slowed down. Luis pointed out tiny crabs skittering over roots and told us about Jota’s mural at “El Ojo” — we all tried to pose for photos but mostly just squinted into the sun and grinned like kids.

At Manawar Point I got my first look underwater. Not gonna lie, I always think I’ll get cold snorkeling but the water here is just... soft? Warm enough that you forget time. We floated above starfish and these weird sea cucumbers (Luis joked they’re the “lazy locals” of the reef). There were huge seagulls overhead too — one nearly stole my hat when I came up for air. The day trip around San Andres felt less like a tour and more like joining someone’s weekend plan.

El Palito was pure chaos in the best way — boats tied together, everyone sharing beers from the icebox (they give you 24 cans for the group), music echoing off water. Some folks danced; others just watched pelicans dive-bombing for fish. At Mundo Marino we had to wear life jackets because it gets deeper — three meters isn’t much until you’re bobbing around watching schools of neon fish zip past your mask. Lunch wasn’t included but Bibi’s Place on Haines Cay was worth every peso; fried fish, coconut rice, sand between your toes. I tried to order in Spanish and our server smiled patiently — probably used to tourists mangling words.

Instagram Beach is exactly what it sounds like: everyone posing with manta rays gliding by (don’t touch them though). It’s a bit surreal swimming next to something that big — their wings look almost fake in that clear water. By White Watta, with those floating bars (Ibiza and Raizal), I’d lost track of time completely. Sunburned shoulders, sticky fingers from salty snacks, music still going strong as we drifted back toward shore. I still think about that light over the bay at dusk — not dramatic or anything, just soft gold on water while everyone laughed about who got splashed most.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day snorkeling and marine tour

• Navigate Old Point Red Mangroves
• Explore fauna and flora, photo at El Ojo
• Snorkel and bathroom stop at Manawar Point
• Spot colorful fish, starfish, sea cucumbers
• Observe Manawar seagulls if possible
• Enjoy music and festive atmosphere at El Palito
• Snorkel at Mundo Marino, wear life jackets
• Lunch at Bibi's Place in Haines Cay (own expense)
• Take photos and spot manta rays at Instagram Beach
• Swim with manta rays without touching
• End day at White Watta with floating bars and music

Top questions

How many snorkeling spots are included on this San Andres marine tour?

The tour visits more than 7 different snorkeling points around San Andres Bay.

Are drinks included during the boat tour?

Yes, 24 canned beers are provided per group (up to 16 people), plus an icebox for keeping drinks cold.

Is lunch included in this San Andres day trip?

No, lunch is not included; you’ll stop at Bibi’s Place on Haines Cay where you can buy your own meal.

Can infants or small children join this marine tour?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller and must sit on an adult's lap; ages 0-1 are free.

Will we see manta rays during this snorkeling tour?

Yes, there is a stop specifically for swimming alongside manta rays near Instagram Beach.

Do we need to bring our own snorkeling gear or life jackets?

No need; life jackets are provided for everyone during deeper swims.

Is there music on board during this San Andres boat trip?

Yes, there’s full HD music onboard with trending songs throughout the day.

Can we bring our own drinks on this marine tour?

You can bring any drinks you like without restriction; an icebox is available onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes slow navigation by boat across seven+ marine sites around San Andres Bay with a local guide leading snorkeling stops; life jackets for all swimmers; full HD music playing onboard; an icebox stocked with 24 canned beers per group (up to 16 people); plus plenty of time at floating bars and beaches before returning in late afternoon.