Acuario de San Andrés | San Andres

The Acuario de San Andrés is an underwater park located off the coast of San Andrés Island, Colombia. It functions as a protected marine sanctuary and a visitor attraction.

Visual Characteristics

The Acuario de San Andrés is characterized by its shallow, clear turquoise waters. The seabed consists primarily of sand and scattered coral formations. Marine life, including various species of fish and sea turtles, is abundant within the designated area.

Location & Access Logistics

The Acuario is situated approximately 2 kilometers northeast of the main island of San Andrés. Access is exclusively via boat. Numerous tour operators depart from the main pier in San Andrés town, with boat trips typically lasting 20-30 minutes. No direct road access or parking is available at the site itself.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Acuario de San Andrés is a designated marine protected area established to conserve the local coral reef ecosystem and its associated biodiversity. Its ecological origin is that of a shallow reef system within the Caribbean Sea, supporting a complex marine food web.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include snorkeling and observing marine life in its natural habitat. Visitors can expect to see a variety of reef fish and potentially sea turtles. Designated viewing platforms are present within the park.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic amenities include floating platforms for entry and exit from the water. Restrooms are typically available on the tour boats. Cell phone signal is generally available. Food vendors are not present at the Acuario itself but are abundant in San Andrés town.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for clear visibility is between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when sunlight penetration is optimal. The dry season, from December to April, offers the most favorable weather conditions with lower rainfall. High tide is generally preferred for better water depth for snorkeling.

Facts & Legends

A local belief suggests that swimming in the Acuario brings good fortune for future travels. The area is known for its high concentration of parrotfish, which play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the coral reefs by grazing on algae.

Nearby Landmarks

• Johnny Cay (0.8km Southwest)
• El Acuario Natural (0.2km West)
• Rocky Cay (1.5km South)
• Spratt Bight Beach (2.1km Southwest)