Cayos de San Andrés | San Andres

Information

Landmark: Cayos de San Andrés
City: San Andres
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Cayos de San Andrés, San Andres, Colombia, South America

Cayos de San Andrés refers to a group of small islands and cays located off the coast of San Andrés Island, Colombia. These formations are part of the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina.

Visual Characteristics

The cayos are characterized by low-lying coral formations, white sand beaches, and shallow, clear turquoise waters. Vegetation is sparse, typically consisting of coconut palms and low-lying shrubs adapted to saline environments. The water depth varies significantly, with extensive shallow areas and sandbars.

Location & Access Logistics

The cayos are situated approximately 1 to 5 kilometers east of San Andrés Island. Access is primarily via small boat or water taxi from the main island's piers, such as Spratt Bight. Travel time ranges from 15 to 30 minutes depending on the specific cay and sea conditions. No dedicated parking is available on the cayos themselves; parking is located on San Andrés Island prior to boat departure. Public transport on San Andrés Island (local buses) can reach the vicinity of the departure points.

Historical & Ecological Origin

These formations are primarily coral reefs that have developed over millennia, with some areas accumulating sand to form small cays. Their ecological origin is tied to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Historically, they served as navigational points and potential resource sites for seafaring communities.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include snorkeling in the shallow reef areas, swimming in the clear waters, and sunbathing on the sandy beaches. Some cayos offer opportunities for observing marine life in their natural habitat. Boat tours often include stops at multiple cayos.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Infrastructure is minimal. Some larger cayos may have basic palapa-style shelters for shade. Restrooms are generally not available on the cayos; visitors typically use facilities on San Andrés Island before departing or upon return. Food vendors are usually found on the main island, with some boat operators offering snacks or drinks for purchase. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available but can be intermittent depending on the specific cay and proximity to San Andrés Island.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is generally between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM when sunlight is strongest, illuminating the water color. The dry season, from December to April, offers the most favorable weather conditions with less rainfall and calmer seas. Visiting during low tide can expose more sandbars and shallow areas.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature of the waters surrounding the cayos is their exceptional clarity, often referred to as the "Sea of Seven Colors" due to the varying shades of blue and green visible from above. Local lore sometimes speaks of submerged treasures, though these are largely unsubstantiated.