Playa Charquitos

Near Playa Charquitos, the dining options are centered around the larger resorts and nearby communities, as the beach itself is primarily residential and natural. Decameron San Luis, a major all-inclusive resort located just minutes from the beach, houses several notable dining venues on site. The resort features a casual buffet restaurant serving an array of international and local cuisine, a Japanese restaurant offering teppanyaki and sushi, and a seafood eatery with fresh catches and Caribbean flavors. These restaurants are appreciated for their variety and freshness, with many guests praising the helpful staff and the ample selection available during meal hours. Due to the remote location of Playa Charquitos, most visitors rely on these resort restaurants or venture into San Luis village for additional options. The resort’s all-inclusive model ensures that guests have access to food and drinks throughout their stay, though peak times can be busy and require a bit of patience for seating. Overall, the restaurants offer a satisfying mix of convenience and quality, with a focus on catering to international palates while highlighting local seafood specialties.

Beyond the resort, San Luis village offers small, family-run eateries and snack bars, though options are limited compared to downtown San Andres. For those seeking more variety, a short bus or taxi ride to the city center opens up a broader range of dining establishments, including Colombian, Creole, and international cuisine. Regardless of where you dine, the local emphasis on fresh seafood and tropical fruits makes every meal a delightful taste of island life.

Playa Charquitos is served primarily by a few notable accommodations, with the most prominent being Decameron San Luis. This all-inclusive beachfront hotel offers 200+ modern rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and safes. Upgraded rooms feature balconies with garden views, and guests benefit from complimentary breakfast, parking, and access to three restaurants, two bars, a nightclub, and multiple swimming pools, including a kiddie pool. The hotel’s amenities are well-suited for families and couples alike, with daily maid service, fresh towels, and plenty of onsite activities, though some guests note the rooms are compact and the facilities show their age. The staff are generally friendly and responsive, and constructive feedback has led to improvements, such as extending meal access on check-out day.

Another nearby option is Hotel MS San Luis Village Beach House, a 3-star hotel located just over half a mile from Playa Charquitos. This affordable alternative offers a more intimate setting, with clean, comfortable rooms and a relaxed vibe. While it lacks the extensive amenities of the Decameron, it provides a quieter, budget-friendly stay close to the beach. Both properties are praised for their proximity to Sound Bay Beach and Playa Charquitos, making them ideal for travelers who prioritize easy beach access and a peaceful environment.

Guests should note that both hotels are located about 25 minutes from downtown San Andres and the airport, offering a tranquil retreat but requiring transport for those wishing to explore further afield. Shuttles, buses, and taxis are readily available, with the local bus being the most economical option for getting around the island.

Playa Charquitos itself is a natural beach with limited built amenities, reflecting its serene, undeveloped character. However, guests staying at nearby hotels such as Decameron San Luis enjoy a wide range of onsite facilities, including restrooms, showers, multiple swimming pools, and ample sun loungers and umbrellas. The hotel’s beach access is convenient, and daily housekeeping ensures a comfortable stay for visitors. For those venturing directly to Playa Charquitos, amenities are minimal—expect pristine sands and clear waters, but fewer services like rental equipment or dedicated restrooms. The area’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty, appealing to those who prefer a more rustic beach experience.

Within the Decameron San Luis property, guests will find a poolside bar, tennis courts, and a variety of kid-friendly activities, making it a solid choice for families. The hotel also offers beach chairs and umbrellas at its private beach club, ensuring relaxation for guests. While the immediate Playa Charquitos shoreline lacks commercial vendors or rental shops, the resort’s extensive amenities compensate for this, providing everything needed for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Playa Charquitos is a paradise for relaxation and water-based activities, thanks to its calm, shallow waters and gentle waves. Swimming is a favorite pastime here, with the lagoon-like conditions making it safe for children and non-swimmers. Snorkeling is also popular, as the clear waters are home to a variety of tropical fish and marine life, best explored close to shore or at nearby coral formations. The beach’s tranquil environment is ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, with some hotels offering equipment rentals for guests.

While surfing and more vigorous water sports are less common due to the calm conditions, the area’s rocky sections and rich marine life make it a great spot for tide pooling and nature observation. For those seeking adventure, organized excursions such as diving trips, catamaran tours, and visits to nearby attractions like Rocky Cay are available through local operators. Beach volleyball and other land-based activities are typically found at the larger resorts, where guests can also enjoy swimming pools, tennis, and nightly entertainment. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a book, explore underwater worlds, or engage in active play, Playa Charquitos offers a balanced mix of relaxation and gentle adventure.

Playa Charquitos and its surrounding area offer basic accessibility for visitors with disabilities, though the natural beach terrain can present challenges. The nearby Decameron San Luis hotel provides accessible rooms and amenities, including ramps and restrooms designed for wheelchair users. While the hotel’s private beach club is easier to navigate, the public sections of Playa Charquitos may have uneven sand and rocky areas that require caution. Guests with mobility needs are encouraged to request assistance from hotel staff, who can help with access to the beach and provide information on available services.

Beach wheelchairs and mobility mats are not specifically listed for Playa Charquitos, but the nearby resorts often have resources to accommodate guests with special needs. For those staying at Decameron San Luis, staff can assist with arranging transportation and ensuring a comfortable stay. The island’s main roads and hotel facilities are generally accessible, but independent exploration of the natural beach may require planning and support. Overall, while Playa Charquitos may not be fully adapted for all mobility needs, the local hotels strive to provide inclusive experiences for all guests.

Parking at Playa Charquitos is primarily available for guests staying at the nearby hotels, such as Decameron San Luis, which offers complimentary parking as part of its amenities. The beach itself does not have a dedicated public parking lot, so most visitors either park at their hotel or use street parking in the San Luis village area. Private vehicles with valid credentials can access the hotel’s secure lot, and overflow parking is occasionally available during peak times. For those arriving by taxi or bus, drop-off points are conveniently located near the beach access points.

Free parking is a standard feature at most accommodations in the area, and hotel guests typically do not face significant challenges finding a spot. However, it is important to note that Playa Charquitos is a natural beach with limited parking infrastructure, so visitors are encouraged to use hotel facilities or public transport. Street parking in the village is generally available but can be limited during high season. Overall, parking is straightforward for hotel guests, while independent travelers may need to plan ahead for bus or taxi connections.

Playa Charquitos is known for its unique, lagoon-like waters, which remain shallow far from shore and attract a variety of tropical fish that can be seen swimming close to the beach. This natural phenomenon makes it a favorite spot for families and photographers alike. The area has also been shaped by tropical storms, most notably a major typhoon in 2020 that altered parts of the coastline and contributed to its current rocky and tranquil character. Despite these changes, the beach remains a beloved retreat for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery.

San Andres Island itself is steeped in history and legend, with stories of pirates like Henry Morgan who are said to have used the island as a hideout. The blend of Caribbean, Spanish, and English influences is evident in the local culture, cuisine, and music. Playa Charquitos, while less developed than other parts of the island, offers a glimpse into the authentic, laid-back lifestyle of San Andres, where the rhythms of the sea and the warmth of the community define the experience. Whether you’re relaxing in the sun or exploring the island’s hidden gems, Playa Charquitos is a place where natural beauty and fascinating history come together.

Playa Charquitos is surrounded by several notable attractions that add to its appeal as a destination. Just a short distance away, guests can visit Rocky Cay, a small island accessible by a sandbar walk or organized excursion, offering excellent snorkeling and a lively beach club atmosphere. The iconic Morgan’s Cave, a legendary pirate hideout turned tourist attraction, is located about 5 km from the beach and provides a fascinating glimpse into the island’s adventurous history. Further afield, the bustling downtown area of San Andres features colorful markets, local shops, and cultural sites, offering a contrast to the tranquil vibe of Playa Charquitos.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s lush interior, which includes hiking trails, botanical gardens, and birdwatching opportunities. The nearby Sea Life Dive Shop provides guided diving experiences for those eager to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine ecosystems. For a mix of history and natural beauty, Fort San Luis and the island’s network of scenic viewpoints offer panoramic vistas and photo opportunities. Whether you’re interested in adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Playa Charquitos serves as a peaceful base for exploring the diverse attractions of San Andres.