An unmissable San Andres accommodation guide, discovering the best areas to stay on the Island for beachfront views & luxurious amenities.
Planning a visit to San Andres Island? Situated off the coast of Colombia in the Caribbean Sea just a 1.5-hour flight from Cartagena, this hidden tropical paradise is known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant Raisal culture.
The island is small with a main road loop totaling 30 km which can be completed in just 1-2 hours on a motorbike. However, for such a tiny Island there are so many things to do like observing the alligators at La Laguna Big Pond to scuba diving in El Acuario!
With all this exploring to be had and to make the most of your stay, I’ve selected these great value-for-money accommodation options based on my personal experience of staying on San Andres Island.
In Di House of Reggae Boutique was a top choice of mine when visiting the island. It has some of the coolest reggae vibes and unbeatable ocean views!
Areas to Stay on San Andres Island
Although San Andres is a small Island, four main areas are considered the best to stay on a visit. These include:
- El Centro - The bustling heart of San Andres Island, featuring a range of accommodations, restaurants, and shops. It is conveniently located near popular beaches like Spratt Bight, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors.
- Rocky Cay - An area known for its proximity to the picturesque Rocky Cay Beach and the Aqua Beach Club. This area is great for families and large groups, offering spacious accommodations and easy access to beach relaxation and water activities.
- San Luis - A tranquil area on the island's eastern side, renowned for its beautiful, less crowded beaches and laid-back atmosphere. This area provides a more authentic local experience and is ideal for those seeking peace and relaxation.
- La Loma - A hilly area in the interior of the Island, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's local culture. It's less touristy and provides a more authentic experience, with hiking opportunities.
Best Hotels in San Andres for All Budgets
| Option | Area | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | In Di House of Reggae Boutique | El Centro | $$ |
 | Aquamare Hotel | El Centro | $$ |
 | Honey Hill View | La Loma | $$ |
 | Le Castel Blanc Hotel Boutique | El Centro | $$ |
 | Hotel Casablanca | El Centro | $$$ |
 | Villa San Miguel | El Centro | $$ |
 | Miraflores Boutique Hotel | San Luis | $$ |
 | Dreamer Beach Club | El Centro | $ |
 | Rocky Cay Lodging | Rocky Cay | $$ |
 | Providence Breeze | El Centro | $$ |
 | Hotel Boutique Casa Hendaus | El Centro | $$ |
1. In Di House of Reggae Boutique
- Area: El Centro
- Best for: Ocean views in a quiet location with a calm atmosphere
Situated on the northwest coast of San Andrés Island, In Di House of Reggae Boutique is one of the best hotels to stay at on the island for ocean views and reggae vibes.
As the name suggests, the entire hotel is decked out with Reggae decor, one of the many reasons it's a unique property. This was one of the best places I stayed in San Andres due to its hospitality and quiet beachside location.
The accommodation has free Wi-Fi, a garden, a terrace, and an onsite restaurant. Each room has air conditioning which is needed on those hot summer days and a private bathroom.
Guests can enjoy an American breakfast each morning and spend their days by the outdoor pool or near one of the many beautiful beaches. The property is located 1.1 km from Parceras Beach, and 2.5 km from Spratt Bight Beach.
2. Aquamare Hotel
- Area: El Centro
- Best for: Families looking for a central location with ocean views
If you're looking for where to stay on San Andrés Island which is right by the beach, Aquamare Hotel is your best option.
Located only 200 m from Spratt Bight Beach, this 4-star hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
Each modern room has air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. Guests also have the option of choosing a room with a balcony that boasts ocean views. A buffet breakfast is also available.
It's a great choice for those traveling in a family or group as suites can accommodate 4 adults and 2 children.
Book: Aquamare Hotel
3. Honey Hill View
- Area: La Loma
- Best for: Adults-only experience away from the crowds
Honey Hill View offers adults-only stays with a beautiful garden and terrace, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
You can enjoy air-conditioned units with a small garden and a patio in a quiet location of La Loma. It's a great area to stay if you enjoy views and watching the sunset.
This family-run stay boasts fantastic reviews and is a great value-for-money option. Guests commented on the delicious breakfast which can be arranged.
Due to the location being further away from the main areas, I would suggest renting a motorbike/buggy to explore the island.
Book: Honey Hill View
4. Le Castel Blanc Hotel Boutique
Inspired by Mediterranean design, Le Castel Blanc Hotel Boutique is one of the best hotels in San Andrés for luxury.
Bringing Greece to Colombia, this mansion features an outdoor swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms, and free Wi-Fi. All suites include private bathrooms and some have private balconies.
Guests can start their day with a tropical fruit breakfast and world-famous Colombian coffee. They can then spend their day by the pool or explore the island on a motorbike or buggy.
If you wish to spend the day by the sea and snorkel the coral reefs, the most beautiful beaches on the island can be found 600 m from the hotel.
5. Hotel Casablanca
- Area: El Centro
- Best for: Couples looking for luxury with ocean views
Do you like the finer things in life? If so, Hotel Casablanca is another great luxury choice.
One of the main drawing cards of the hotel is its stunning beachfront location surrounded by palm trees. This modern hotel has four on-site dining options that serve local cuisine and international dishes meaning guests don't need to leave.
There are a range of room options, some with private balconies and gorgeous Caribbean Sea views!
A full breakfast with delicious Colombian coffee and tropical fruits is included and can be enjoyed at the beachfront cafe.
Guests can spend their days lazing by the pool, enjoying the stunning beach, or visiting the exclusive Johnny Cay Island, which is a ten-minute boat ride. Visit the tour desk to arrange the trip.
Book: Hotel Casablanca
6. Villa San Miguel
- Area: El Centro
- Best for: Couples wanting a quiet stay near El Centro
If you're a budget traveler, Villa San Miguel offers studio-style accommodation options for a great price.
Only 100 m from the city center, this accommodation offers self-sufficient apartments with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and modern furnishings.
Restaurants and shops can be found down the road or food can be cooked in the room as some accommodate a fully equipped kitchen.
You can rent bikes from the property, and I found it a fantastic way to explore El Centro, especially when visiting Playa Spratt Bight.
Book: Villa San Miguel
7. Miraflores Boutique Hotel
- Area: San Luis
- Best for: Adults wanting a quiet stay
If you're looking for where to stay on San Andrés Island that takes you back to nature, Miraflores Boutique Hotel Adults Only is a great option as there is minimal noise (no children) and nearby West View.
An American breakfast is available daily and an outdoor swimming pool can be enjoyed by those who don't feel like exploring and want to relax.
This 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, and each room has a private bathroom. Guests can also book rooms with a balcony and sea view.
Some popular points of interest near the hotel include San Luis Beach and La Piscinita. Since the area is very popular for cycling, bikes are available for hire at this property.
If you're looking for a place to watch the sunset I suggest finding a place along the cliffs from West View.
8. Dreamer Beach Club
- Area: El Centro
- Best for: Hostel for groups or solo travelers looking to meet others
Located only 200 m from Spratt Bight Beach, Dreamer Beach Club offers private accommodation options and dorms for solo travelers.
Boasting a two-level outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge, and free Wi-Fi, this 4-star hostel is a great place to stay.
All private rooms have a private bathroom, while selected rooms also offer a balcony with pool views.
Guests can enjoy a buffet, continental, or American breakfast each morning. An on-site restaurant serving Mediterranean, Italian, and Peruvian cuisine is available to those not wanting to leave the hotel for food.
Guests can relax by the pool, billiards, table tennis, or darts. Additionally, they can hire a bike or book a day trip to explore Haynes Cay.
Some of the best beaches near the hostel include Los Almendros Beach, North End, and San Andrés Bay.
Book: Dreamer Beach Club
9. Rocky Cay Lodging
- Area: Rocky Cay
- Best for: Large groups and families wanting to stay together
Located steps away from Rocky Cay Beach you'll find this incredible accommodation option which is the perfect choice for large groups of families wanting to stay together.
There is a restaurant on site which is great if you're looking to eat before exploring the island.
Rooms can accommodate up to 6 people and each has a small kitchen, private bathroom, and seating area.
I recommend checking out Aqua Beach Club nearby which serves as a great base if relaxing on the beach under a shade with a cocktail in hand is your style.
Book: Rocky Cay Lodging
10. Providence Breeze
- Area: El Centro
- Best for: Extra large groups or couples wanting a quiet area
Located on the northwest corner of the island only 200 m from Parceras Beach is where you'll find Providence Breeze.
The best part I found with this accommodation option is that it has an apartment with a terrace which can fit up to 12 people. This is a great choice for large groups of families who are looking to split the costs.
This property features a garden, a shared lounge and terrace, and free private parking. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and each room has a private bathroom and air conditioning. Some rooms also have a balcony.
Some of the best places to explore near the hotel include Spratt Bight Beach and North End.
Book: Providence Breeze
11. Hotel Boutique Casa Hendaus
- Area: El Centro
- Best for: Adults-Only hotel for those wanting a romantic stay
Finally, one of the best hotels for a romantic stay on San Andrés Island is the adults-only Hotel Boutique Casa Hendaus.
Located 500 m from Parceras Beach, it features a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms on the upper levels boast breathtaking views and are brightly lit by natural light.
A delicious breakfast is served each morning with an array of choices.
Some popular points of interest near the hotel include Spratt Bight Beach, Los Almendros Beach, North End, and Morgan's Cave.
My Hotel Selection Process
- Accommodation Criteria: I selected accommodations based on current prices, location & proximity to main attractions like Spratt Bight Beach and Rocky Cay Beach, as well as current reviews, ratings, and recommendations.
- My Experience: I stayed on San Andres Island for over a week. I stayed in multiple hotels & hostels listed above & reviewed hundreds of listings, comparing them based on my criteria to select hotels offering the best value.
- Top Reviews: All hotels I've selected maintain exceptional ratings on booking sites. I regularly revisit the listings and refresh my selections to guarantee that every hotel consistently upholds a high-quality standard and great value for money.
- Local Insights: My selections are based on recommendations from fellow travelers, a mix of online reviews, and my personal experiences whilst visiting the island.
Read more about how I review & select hotels & accommodations.
I'm Olly, a full-time traveler since 2018. Each accommodation option in this guide is handpicked by me. Read my travel review ethics statement.
FAQ About Staying on San Andres Island
What is the best time to visit San Andres Island?
The best time to visit is between December and April when the weather is warm and dry. This period offers the best conditions for beach activities and exploring the island. October-November sees the most rain.
How do I get to San Andres Island?
San Andres Island is accessible by air, with direct flights from major Colombian cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. The flight from Cartagena to San Andres takes about 1.5 hours.
How much is the entry tax to San Andres Island?
The entry tax to San Andres Island, also known as the Tourist Card, currently costs 124,000 Colombian pesos (around $30 USD) as of 2024. You can purchase this card at the airport of departure before flying to San Andres.
Is it easy to get around San Andres Island?
The island is small, and you can easily get around by renting a motorbike or a buggy. The main road loop around the island is about 30 km around and can be completed in 1-2 hours depending on how often you stop.
What are the main areas to stay on San Andres Island?
El Centro: Central area with many hotels, restaurants, and shops.
San Luis: A quieter area with beautiful beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere.
La Loma: Offers stunning views and a more local experience.
Rocky Cay: Great for families and groups, close to Rocky Cay Beach.
Now that you know where to book your accommodation on San Andres Island, why not dive into some of my other travel & adventure guides below?
- Medellín Travel Guide: Discover fun activities and top highlights in Medellín
- San Andrés Island: Guide to Colombia's best Caribbean Island
- Minca Travel Guide: Discover incredible hikes, beautiful fincas, epic jungle waterfalls, and all-around relaxing vibes.
- Things to do in Guatapé: Travel to Colombia's most scenic Antioquian town, known for its vibrant streets, traditional street art, and the famous Piedra del Peñol.
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