Playa Blanca is often hailed as the best beach in Colombia, and for good reason. Located on a peninsula southwest of Cartagena, it's pristine and relatively unspoiled.

Swaying palm trees and lush tropical foliage line the sugar-white sand, which stretches for miles in either direction and fades into the warm, turquoise water. While Playa Blanca is only a short boat ride from downtown Cartagena, it feels miles away.

Swaying palm trees and lush tropical foliage line the sugar-white sand, which stretches for miles in either direction and fades into the warm, turquoise water. While Playa Blanca is only a short boat ride from downtown Cartagena, it feels miles away.

What to Do When You Arrive at Playa Blanca

The lancha de carga will drop you off at the main part of the beach. Here you can kick back in a hammock or rustic cabana for just a few dollars. You can also rent snorkel gear, and there are several bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood and drinks at bargain prices. Make sure to try the Coco Loco—a drink you sip from a young coconut, made from rum, fresh coconut water and cream.

Playa Blanca is not overly crowded, but if you want more privacy you can walk down the beach to a more deserted stretch of sand. In such solitude, you can almost imagine you have the island all to yourself