Cartagena: Playa Tranquila ALL INCLUSIVE+seafood casserole

Cartagena: Playa Tranquila ALL INCLUSIVE+Seafood Casserole — An Authentic Beach Escape

If you’re visiting Cartagena and craving a genuine day of sun, sand, and sea, this trip to Playa Tranquila offers a solid choice. For just $22 per person, you’ll spend around 7 hours exploring the beautiful Playa Blanca on Baru Island, with hotel pickup, a delicious seafood meal, and plenty of time to relax or snorkel in calm waters. The experience is perfect for travelers who want an affordable taste of Caribbean beach life without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Two aspects we particularly love are the included transportation—which makes reaching the beach hassle-free—and the traditional Caribbean lunch that’s both hearty and flavorful. Plus, the scenic journey over the bridge to Baru sets the tone for a memorable day. A minor consideration is that some amenities like chairs, umbrellas, and snorkeling gear are extra, so come prepared if you want a fully set-up beach day. This tour suits those who appreciate good-value outings, delicious local food, and relaxed beach atmospheres, especially if you’re traveling with family or a group eager for an authentic experience without the fuss.

Key Points

• Affordable price with comprehensive experience — great value for a full day at the beach.
• Includes hotel pickup and scenic transportation — stress-free arrival on Baru Island.
• Authentic Caribbean lunch — seafood casserole, fried fish, coconut rice, and more.
• Relaxing hours at Playa Blanca — swim, sunbathe, and take photos in a tranquil setting.
• Optional extras available — chairs, tents, snorkeling gear, and drinks for an additional cost.
• Good for travelers seeking simplicity and local flavor — families, couples, or solo visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

When we first considered this tour, what drew us in was the convenience of hotel pickup combined with the promise of a seven-hour escape to Playa Blanca, one of Cartagena’s most iconic beaches. The price of $22 per person makes it accessible, and with a duration of around 7 hours, it balances plenty of beach time with comfortable transportation — a key factor in avoiding the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded boats.

The Journey to Baru Island

The trip begins early in the morning, with pickups from five key locations: Bocagrande, El Laguito, Castillogrande, Marbella, and Centro. The air-conditioned bus or van whisks you away for about an hour, crossing a scenic bridge leading to Baru — a part of the island that feels worlds away from the busy city. This transfer is smooth, and the group size feels manageable, allowing for some camaraderie or quiet reflection as you soak in the views.

Reaching Playa Blanca

Once on Baru, you’ll step off the bus and ascend rustic stairs to reach the 2.4 km long Playa Blanca. The route is straightforward but involves a short walk, which can be a bonus if you’re eager to stretch your legs after the drive. The beach itself is not crowded, especially if you head toward the quieter sector called Playa Tranquila, where you’ll find fewer people and a more relaxed atmosphere.

What to Expect at Playa Tranquila

The main appeal of this trip is the perfect blend of natural beauty and comfort. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or just floating lazily in the waves. From reviews, we know many guests appreciated the scenic views, especially during sunset, which adds a special touch to this already scenic stretch of sand.

While the tour provides free time for about three hours after lunch, it’s enough to relax, take photos, or explore the shoreline. If you’re feeling more active, you can stroll along the beach or walk up some gentle hiking spots nearby.

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The Lunch: A Caribbean Feast

The highlight for many is the lunch, included in the price. Guests rave about the seafood casserole, a hearty mix of fresh seafood, rice, plantains, and tropical juices. The menu also offers fried fish, seafood fish, deviled fish, or chicken, accompanied by coconut rice and salads. The food is generous and flavorful, offering an authentic taste of coastal Colombia.

However, it’s worth noting that drinks and extras like chairs, tents, or snorkeling gear are not included. Some reviews mention that additional costs for drinks and amenities can add up, so if you’re planning to spend a full day on the beach, bringing some cash for extras might be wise.

Activities and Amenities

Snorkeling is available but considered an add-on—meaning you’ll need to rent gear if you want to explore underwater. Chairs, umbrellas, and tents are also paid options, which could be a drawback if you prefer a fully set-up beach experience. Still, the free time allows you to swim, sunbathe, or relax without a rigid schedule.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

The trip wraps up with a return bus ride back to Cartagena, about an hour away, with drop-offs at the original pickup points. The experience provider is attentive, ensuring everyone gets back safely and on time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a great pick for budget-conscious travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic travel, delicious local food, and beach relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy authentic Caribbean flavors and don’t mind paying extra for beach chairs or snorkeling gear. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers looking for an uncomplicated day trip will find this a straightforward, enjoyable outing.

If you’re after a luxury experience with all amenities included, you might find this tour a bit bare-bones. But if you value local charm, good food, and a relaxed beach atmosphere, it hits the mark perfectly. Also, the availability of telephone assistance and English-speaking guides helps non-Spanish speakers feel supported throughout the day.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $22, this trip offers remarkable value. The combination of convenient hotel pickup, scenic transportation, authentic Caribbean cuisine, and serene beach hours makes it an attractive option for those eager to experience Cartagena’s coastline without breaking the bank.

The delicious seafood meal is a real highlight, especially if you love local flavors. The scenic drive and quiet Playa Blanca provide the perfect setting for unwinding, whether you’re seeking quiet reflection or a bit of snorkeling fun.

However, keep in mind that additional expenses for chairs, umbrellas, and snorkeling gear can increase the overall cost if you’re not prepared. So, packing some cash and essentials like sunscreen, water shoes, and insect repellent ensures your day stays enjoyable.

In the end, this tour caters well to travelers who prefer an authentic, laid-back beach experience with the convenience of guided transport and local cuisine. It’s especially ideal for those who cherish value and simplicity over luxury amenities.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, depending on your location. If you’re staying in Bocagrande, El Laguito, Castillogrande, Marbella, or Cabrero, they’ll pick you up at your hotel lobby. For those in the city center, you’ll meet at Cafetería Juan Valdez.

What time does the tour start?
Pickups generally occur around 7:20 AM, with the tour lasting about 7 hours. Confirm your exact pickup time by contacting the provider, especially if you’re in the city center.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), water shoes, insect repellent, and some cash for extras like chairs or drinks.

Is snorkeling included?
No, snorkeling is an optional add-on. You can rent gear on-site if you wish to explore underwater.

Are chairs and umbrellas provided?
Not included in the basic package. These are available for purchase, so bring cash if you want to rent them.

Can I upgrade my experience?
Extras like seafood casserole, cocktails, or coconut water can be added at the time of booking or on-site, at additional cost.

How long is the beach time?
You’ll have around three to five hours of free time at Playa Blanca, depending on the schedule and your preferences.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

This tour offers a balanced day of scenic travel, authentic local flavors, and relaxing beach hours. Perfect for those wanting an affordable, straightforward experience that showcases the best of Cartagena’s coastal charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby