Plaza Hopping in Cartagena: What to Know

Plaza hopping (usually called island or playa hopping) means spending a full day on a catamaran or speedboat bouncing between a handful of islands and sandbars just outside Cartagena Bay. Expect loud music, a lot of drinking, swimming stops, and long stretches of lounging on beaches that range from pleasant to packed. The boats carry 15–40 people; you’ll snorkel at shallow reefs, eat a basic lunch of fish, rice, and plantains on one of the islands, and hit at least three or four spots before returning around sunset. It’s social, sun-soaked, and can be a lot of fun if you like group energy; it can also feel chaotic if you’re after peace and quiet.

Best time is December through March when the weather is driest and the sea is calmest. Avoid rainy season (April–November) unless you don’t mind choppy rides and afternoon showers. Expect to pay around $70–110 per person for a full-day trip that includes lunch, drinks, and basic snorkel gear. Private or smaller-boat options sit at the higher end.

Pick tours that stop at the quieter outer islands and sandbars rather than the overcrowded beach clubs. Skip the ones that advertise “unlimited alcohol” if you want a relaxed day—those tend to get rowdy fast. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and cash for extras; the experience is what you make of it once you’re off the boat.