San Andrés Scooter Rental: Explore Island Beaches & Sights

Summary

Self-Guided San Andrés Island Tour by Scooter

If you want real freedom to explore San Andrés—beaches, food stalls, hidden corners—a scooter is hands-down the best way. Go at your own pace and see what most visitors miss.

What’s the experience like?

Right after breakfast, I picked up my scooter right outside my hotel in the center of San Andrés—no need to hunt for a rental shop. The air was already warm, with that salty breeze you only get this close to the Caribbean. After a quick check with the staff (they made sure I had my license on me), I hopped on and rolled out onto the main road that loops around the island.

The freedom hits you fast here. No schedules, no crowds—just me, the hum of the engine, and those flashes of turquoise water between palm trees. I stopped wherever caught my eye: a tiny stand selling fresh coconut water near Rocky Cay, a quiet stretch of sand where locals were playing dominoes under a tree, even a little bakery in La Loma where the smell of coconut bread pulled me right in. Our PDF guide pointed out some must-try restaurants too; I ended up at Miss Celia’s for fried fish and plantains. Parking? Never an issue. Even during midday when things get busy near Spratt Bight Beach, there’s always space for scooters.

Our guide had warned us not to drive on the sand—locals take care of their beaches here, and it’s easy to see why. The whole loop takes maybe an hour if you don’t stop, but honestly, you’ll want to pause everywhere: blowholes spitting sea spray at Hoyo Soplador, reggae music drifting from beach bars, kids waving as you pass through San Luis village. Just remember to keep an eye on your fuel gauge; stations aren’t everywhere, so top up when you can. And yeah—don’t forget your physical ID or license; they’re strict about that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scooter Rental and Island Exploration

• Rent scooter or motorcycle
• Explore San Andrés island at your own pace
• Visit white sand beaches and crystal clear waters
• Stop at iconic island sites
• Taste local restaurants and fair tables
• Return scooter after 9 hours rental

Top questions

Do I need a motorcycle license or will any driver’s license work?

You’ll need a valid driver’s license (not just a car permit) to rent a scooter here. They’ll check it before handing over the keys.

Can I get the scooter delivered somewhere other than my hotel?

Usually delivery is just for hotels in downtown San Andrés. If you need it elsewhere or later than planned, contact us first—we’ll try to help but can’t guarantee it.

How long do I have the scooter for?

The rental lasts 9 hours from your chosen start time. If you return late or want extra time, let us know ahead—it might not always be possible though.

Is it safe to drive around the whole island?

The main road is pretty straightforward and traffic isn’t heavy outside town. Just watch for speed bumps and don’t ride after drinking—local police are strict about it.

What’s included

Your rental comes with hotel delivery in central San Andrés and a handy PDF guide full of local tips on sights and restaurants. Scooters are well-maintained (most are new models), so you just need your physical ID and valid license—then hit the road!