Cartagena: Rosario Island Beach Club Day Trip and OPEN BAR

If you’re looking for a way to unwind during a trip to Cartagena, the Rosario Islands Beach Club Day Trip offers a solid package: turquoise waters, soft white sand, a tasty local lunch, and an open bar to keep the drinks flowing. For $128 per person, this six-hour adventure combines scenic boat rides with relaxed beach time, making it an appealing escape from the city’s hustle. Led by friendly guides, you’ll visit a panoramic view point, enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, and indulge in delicious Caribbean flavors—what’s not to like?

What we love most about this tour is how it balances organized sightseeing with ample free time — especially the five hours at the island’s beach club, perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the views. Plus, the all-you-can-drink open bar is a real highlight, especially since it includes house cocktails and cold beers. The second favorite? The lunch options; you get a choice between Fish, Grilled Chicken, or Vegetable Chaufa Rice, catering to many tastes.

A possible consideration is that the boat ride involves maritime transport, which can be bumpy depending on sea conditions, and you’ll get wet. If you’re sensitive to motion or tend to get seasick, bring appropriate gear or consider other transport options. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, social day on the water with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and local flavors. It works well for families, groups, or anyone eager to experience Rosario Islands without fuss.

Key Points

• Scenic boat transportation offers panoramic views and an authentic Caribbean experience.
• Five hours of beach time allows for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing under umbrellas.
• All-inclusive drinks and lunch provide good value and eliminate worries about extra costs.
• Guided stops at the Oceanarium and other viewpoints add a touch of sightseeing.
• Flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
• Accessible options make it suitable for travelers with mobility needs or families.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Rosario Islands Day Trip

This full-day trip begins bright and early at the Muelle de la Bodeguita, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The official departure window is between 7:20 am and 8:00 am, so arriving on time is key to starting smoothly. The first leg is a speedboat ride lasting about an hour, providing a lively and scenic introduction to the islands. You’ll feel the wind in your hair and see the coastline retreat as you head towards your destination.

Scenic Stop at the Oceanarium

Your first official stop is at the Rosario Islands Oceanarium, which involves a photo stop, a guided visit, and some sightseeing. While entrance to the Oceanarium isn’t included, the stop offers a great chance to learn about local marine life and snap some memorable photos. It’s a brief scenic drive that adds a little educational flair to the trip, and many reviewers appreciate this quick glimpse into the area’s marine environment.

Island Time: Beach Club and Scenic Views

Next, the boat departs for Rosario Island itself, where you’ll spend approximately five hours at a dedicated beach club. Here, the atmosphere is designed for relaxation—white sand underfoot, crystalline waters inviting you in for a swim, and shaded umbrellas perfect for reading or napping. The panoramic tour includes a stop at a viewpoint, offering a sweeping perspective of the coral reefs and lush surroundings that make Rosario Island so striking.

What’s Included at the Beach?

The beach club is well-equipped with parasol and sunshade options, so you’re shaded from the tropical sun if you prefer. The open bar is unlimited, offering local beers, house cocktails like Piña Colada and Mojito, soda, bottled water, and fresh juices. Many reviews praise the quality and variety, stating, “The drinks were generous and the bartender was friendly.”

For lunch, you can pick between Fish, Grilled Chicken, or Vegetable Chaufa Rice, giving options for meat-lovers and vegetarians alike. The food is served with typical Caribbean flavors, and many travelers mention how tasty and satisfying the meal is.

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Free Time and Water Activities

During your five hours on the island, you’re free to swim, nap, or explore. Some guests highlight how they loved snorkeling around the reefs, while others simply enjoyed lounging in the sun with a drink in hand. If you’re traveling with children, the children’s menu ensures everyone stays refreshed and fed with options like juice and soda.

Return Journey

The return trip involves another speedboat ride, approximately 20 minutes, followed by a final hour back to Cartagena, arriving at Muelle de la Bodeguita around 3 pm. The boat ride can be lively; reviews mention that sometimes the sea is rough, and the boat can bump along depending on weather conditions. Travelers are advised to bring towels, wear beach shoes—since the sand contains remains of coral—and prepare for the possibility of getting wet.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

We appreciated the authentic Caribbean feel of this tour, especially how it combines scenic views with leisure. You’ll get to see Rosario Island from a panoramic viewpoint, providing stunning photo opportunities that many say are a highlight. The delicious lunch is another standout, often praised for its flavor and variety.

The open bar is a real value-add, especially since most reviews find the drinks to be well-made and plentiful. It keeps the mood lively and social, perfect for groups or couples. The inclusion of a guided stop at the Oceanarium adds a bit of educational fun—though entrance fees aren’t included, which is worth keeping in mind.

The tour’s timing—starting early—means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures, but it also means getting ready at dawn. Make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and enough cash for extras not included in the package, like port taxes or souvenirs.

For families or travelers with mobility concerns, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and guides are friendly and accommodating. However, remember that maritime transport involves some getting wet and bumpiness, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers looking for a relaxed, social day on the water with plenty of scenic views and opportunities for swimming. It’s perfect for those who enjoy great food, drinks, and beach leisure without too many complicated activities. Families, couples, and groups of friends will find this experience offers a good balance of sightseeing and downtime.

If you crave a fuss-free day with beautiful scenery and excellent food, then this is a reliable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more adventurous or active itinerary, you might want to explore other Rosario options like snorkeling or sailing excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
You get boat transportation, an unlimited open bar with national drinks, a tasty lunch with three options, a panoramic tour of Rosario Islands, and access to umbrellas and beach chairs.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is about six hours, starting early in the morning and returning around mid-afternoon.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
The boat ride is fast and scenic but can be bumpy depending on sea conditions, and you might get wet. Bringing towels, waterproof gear, or a jacket is advisable.

Are food and drinks unlimited?
Yes, the open bar is unlimited with a selection of beers, house cocktails, soda, and fresh juices. The lunch options are also included and served during your beach stop.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sunhat, swimwear, beach shoes, cash for extras, and a towel if you want to dry off.

Is entrance to the Oceanarium included?
No, the stop at the Oceanarium involves a guided visit but does not include entrance fees.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and a special menu with beverages and lunch options is available for them.

What about accessibility?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but the maritime transport may pose challenges for some travelers.

This Rosario Islands day trip offers a well-rounded taste of Caribbean relaxation combined with scenic boat rides and authentic local flavors. The stunning views, tasty lunch, and unlimited drinks make it a good value for those wanting to experience Rosario’s natural beauty without overcommitting.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a laid-back day with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, and enjoy good food and drinks. If you’re seeking a straightforward, enjoyable escape from Cartagena with a mixture of sightseeing and leisure, this trip fits the bill.

For those with a sense of adventure, and a desire to explore beyond the beach club, you might consider other tours with snorkeling or sailing, but for pure relaxation, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for the boat ride’s quick pace and possible sea-bumpiness—and you’ll likely leave with plenty of memorable photos and a satisfied palate.

You can check availability for your dates here: