Visiting Cartagena is all about enjoying its gorgeous beaches, and when it comes to beach clubs in the city, there are plenty of choices. Some are swanky and exclusive, but others are more casual, offering up food, music and fun for all to enjoy. If you’re looking for a beach that offers both relaxation and an excellent party scene, look no further than the amazing Fenix Beach Club. Set on the Island of Tierra Bomba, this popular spot attracts a mix of discerning locals and tourists looking to have a good time. It’s also a great place to get a tan, or to take a swim in the beautiful crystal clear water. A large pool is situated around the beach, and there are plenty of loungers to relax in. The onsite restaurant is a good choice for some tasty snacks and drinks. A good tip is to go to Fenix on a weekday if you want to avoid the weekend crowds and find it a bit more peaceful.

Playa Blanca is arguably the most beautiful beach near Cartagena. It’s located to the southwest of the city, on the Island of Baru and is famous for its sugary soft sand, azure waters and beautiful palm trees that sway in the breeze. It can get crowded at times, but it’s well worth a visit if you’re looking for a beautiful beach that’s not too far from the city center.

If you’re looking for a more lively experience, head to Cholon on the weekends when simple thatched-roof huts are set up over a small sandbar. It’s a favorite spot for yachts to anchor and join the seven-days-a-week reggaeton and alcohol-fueled drinking parties that are held here. You can rent a boat from the city to go to Cholon, or you can book a tour that includes round-trip transport and lunch at one of the floating bars.

La Boquilla is another lovely beach that is less crowded than some of the other beaches near Cartagena. It’s a good choice if you’re seeking solitude or just want to avoid some of the more obnoxious vendors who can be found at other popular beaches in Cartagena. This pristine beach is also one of the best spots in Cartagena to watch the sunset.

Gente del Mar is a hotel that has two of the most gorgeous beaches in the region, and it’s not a public beach, meaning you can only access it if you are staying at the hotel or buying a day pass. It’s a lovely, quiet spot with a nice selection of loungers and trees to shade you from the sun, a bar, a restaurant and a volleyball court. Cartagena Private Beach