Rosario Islands
Your complete guide to the Rosario Islands — luxury villas, private island stays, boat tours, and hidden beaches near Cartagena
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Melissa Porras Reserve con esta empresa un yate para mi cumpleaños y superó mis expectativas, todo fue súper fácil y súper bonito. Volvería nuevamente a reservar con ellos siempre que vaya a Cartagena! Mil gracias a Melanie 🤍 Olga Fuentes Great experience with Melanie. The booking process was easy, the team was professional and on time, and the boat was clean and comfortable. Everything was well organized, and we felt safe throughout the trip. Highly recommended. Nicole Tovar Súper buen servicio, Melanie muy linda persona y amable! Los recomiendo full💓✨💫 You Deserve Spa Minha experiência com a Colombia Luxury Group foi impecável. Desde o primeiro contato, fui tratada com muita gentileza e profissionalismo. Tudo foi claro, rápido e bem organizado. No dia do aluguel, a embarcação estava em perfeitas condições e a tripulação nos tratou de forma espetacular. Adorei a atenção aos detalhes e me senti muito relaxada durante toda a viagem. Sem dúvida, a melhor opção para alugar um barco ou iate em Cartagena. Reservaria com eles novamente sem hesitar. Já estou pronta pra mais uma 🙏🏻💛 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Fabio Villarreal Vasquez La mejor empresa para alquilar embarcaciones en Cartagena. Tuve una de las mejores experiencias con mi familia. Los recomiendo Nancy Paparoni Exceptional Service and Unique experience .
YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE ROSARIO ISLANDS
Private island villas and luxury stays near Cartagena
Browse Our Rosario Islands Properties
Your Complete Rosario Islands Travel Guide
What Are the Rosario Islands?
The Rosario Islands are a chain of 27 coral islands near Cartagena, Colombia. In fact, they sit just 45 minutes away by boat. As a result, they rank among the most visited spots in the country.
Moreover, the clear blue waters here offer world-class snorkeling. Because of this, sea turtles, bright fish, and coral reefs thrive in these warm seas. In addition, the Rosario Islands hold national park status, so the marine life stays well guarded.
Therefore, the Rosario Islands have become the top pick for luxury guests near Cartagena. Whether you plan a day trip or an overnight villa stay, you will find a true Caribbean escape here. As a result, Colombia Luxury Group now offers direct access to the finest homes across the chain.

How to Get to the Rosario Islands
First, most guests leave from the Muelle de la Bodeguita dock in central Cartagena. In addition, private yacht and boat charters offer the most relaxed way to arrive. Consequently, the ride takes only 40 to 60 minutes.
On the other hand, public boats also run daily routes to the islands. However, a private charter lets you move at your own pace. Similarly, you can add stops at Baru, Cholon, and Playa Blanca along the way. Because of this, many guests choose a full-day yacht trip that hits several spots.
Where to Stay on the Rosario Islands
Above all, the Rosario Islands offer many great places for those who want to spend the night. For instance, private island villas give you a calm retreat in clear blue water. In particular, these homes come with private docks, staff on hand, and fine meals.
Small Resorts and Eco-Lodges
Meanwhile, small resorts on the larger islands serve guests who seek a quiet mood. Notably, many Rosario Islands spots include full packages with meals, water sports gear, and guided snorkel trips. As a result, the total lack of city noise creates a peace you cannot find on the mainland.

Luxury Private Villas
Furthermore, Colombia Luxury Group runs a hand-picked set of private villas across the Rosario Islands. For example, Isla Amores has beach cabanas, a private shore, and a full concierge team. Likewise, other villas offer pools, open-air dining decks, and reef access.
In addition, every villa booking comes with round-trip boat rides from Cartagena and a custom plan for your stay. Therefore, to browse our full list, check the cards above or view our Cartagena stay guide.

Best Things to Do on the Rosario Islands
Besides rest, the Rosario Islands offer a wide range of fun things to do. First, snorkeling through the coral beds ranks as the top draw. Also, kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing bring plenty of thrills. Moreover, the Corales del Rosario National Park runs a sea life center for guests who want to learn more.
Sunset Cruises and Fishing Trips
In addition, sunset cruises around the Rosario Islands create a magic mood for couples. Similarly, fishing charters head out daily for deep-sea sport. In short, these islands blend natural beauty with top-tier service.

Best Time to Visit the Rosario Islands
Specifically, the best time to visit falls between December and April. During this window, dry season brings calm seas and blue skies. As a result, water clarity reaches up to 20 meters. However, the Rosario Islands welcome guests all year long.
In contrast, June through October can bring short rain bursts. Nevertheless, mornings tend to stay sunny. Regardless of when you come, water stays warm at 26 to 29 degrees year-round. Indeed, there is no bad time to see these stunning islands.
FAQ In addition, our luxury villa rentals offer the privacy of a home with the service of a five-star hotel.
Everything You Need to Know
About Rosario Islands
How do I get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena?
+Overall, the Walled City is best for first-time visitors — UNESCO heritage, walkable, packed with restaurants and rooftop bars. Bocagrande is ideal for families and beach access with modern high-rise hotels. Meanwhile, Getsemani is the top choice for nightlife lovers with craft cocktail bars and live salsa. Castillogrande and Manga offer the most privacy with luxury villas, pools, and marina access for yacht charters.
Can you stay overnight on the Rosario Islands?
+Yes. Getsemani has transformed into one of Cartagena’s most popular tourist neighborhoods with boutique hotels, restaurants, and bars on every block. Plaza Trinidad is lively every evening. Normal street awareness is recommended after midnight on quieter side streets, but overall it is considered safe for tourists.
What is the best time to visit the Rosario Islands?
+It depends on your priorities. The Walled City offers culture, colonial architecture, world-class dining, and walkability — ideal for couples and first-timers. Bocagrande offers direct beach access, modern hotels, malls, and a resort-like atmosphere — better for families with children. The two areas are only 10 minutes apart by taxi, so you can easily visit both regardless of where you stay.
Planning Essentials
Is snorkeling good at the Rosario Islands?
+Yes. Several eco-hotels and boutique properties offer overnight stays on the Rosario Islands, including Hotel San Pedro de Majagua and Isla del Encanto. Private island rentals are also available for groups ranging from $1,000 to $5,500 per night. Getting there takes 45–60 minutes by boat — a private yacht charter is significantly more comfortable than the public ferry.
How much does a private villa cost on the Rosario Islands?
+Villa prices vary significantly by neighborhood and size. In the Walled City, colonial mansion villas with private pools and staff range from $300 to $1,500 per night. In Castillogrande and Manga, larger waterfront compounds with ocean views run $500 to $3,000 per night. Most luxury villas include a private pool, daily housekeeping staff, security, and concierge services.
Still have questions?
Ask Our ConciergePair your day on the water with our private bazurto market tour cartagena for a full local-life experience — Anthony Bourdain’s favorite Caribbean food market.
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Pair Your Rosario Islands Day with a Cartagena Beach Club
After the Rosario Islands, many travelers return to Cartagena for a late-afternoon beach club session. For the definitive list, read our complete guide to the best beach clubs in Cartagena. It covers every major club in Bocagrande, Tierra Bomba, and the Rosario Islands — with insider tips on day passes, couples packages, and private-island options.