Colombia's watersports capital
Your complete guide to the best watersports experience on Colombia's Caribbean coast.
Why Cartagena for watersports?
Cartagena de Indias isn't just UNESCO heritage, history and incredible food. It's also the best watersports destination on Colombia's Caribbean coast. Consistent wind, warm water year-round, and a spectacular bay that combines adventure with postcard-perfect views.
Weather & best time to visit
Cartagena is tropical. It's warm all year (28-32°C / 82-90°F air, 27-30°C / 80-86°F water). The variable is wind and rain, and that determines which sport is best each month.
December — March
Peak seasonWind: 15-22 knotsStrong, consistent winds, clear skies, dry season. Perfect for kitesurfing, surfing, and all activities.
April — May
TransitionWind: 8-15 knotsModerate winds, light rain begins. Excellent for SUP, surfing and jet ski. Fewer crowds than peak season.
June — August
Second wind seasonWind: 12-18 knotsWinds return. Good kitesurfing, occasional but short rain (usually afternoon). Lower hotel prices.
September — October
Low seasonWind: 5-10 knotsLight winds, calm waters. Ideal for paddleboard and jet ski. More frequent rain but the ocean is calm and perfect.
November
Swell seasonWind: VariableCaribbean swells from hurricane season (Cartagena is NOT in the hurricane zone). Variable conditions but good surf swells can arrive.
Our watersports
Five sports, one location. No matter your level or age, we have the perfect adventure for you.
"Cartagena is where the Caribbean welcomes you with open arms"
How to get to Playa Las Velas
Our school is at Playa Las Velas, El Laguito, one of the best beaches in Cartagena's tourist zone. Getting here is easy from anywhere in the city.
From the airport
Rafael Nunez (CTG)
Get a taxi from the official airport counter. Avoid drivers who approach you outside.
From the Walled City
Historic Center / Old Town
Take Avenida San Martin straight to El Laguito. Quick and direct route.
From Bocagrande
Main hotel zone
Walk along the beach or Avenida San Martin toward El Laguito. We're at the very end.
Where to stay
Cartagena has neighborhoods for every taste. Here's which one suits your style best.
Bocagrande
Closest to usMain hotel zone with oceanfront high-rises. Just 5-10 minutes walking to our school. Perfect if you want to walk out of your hotel and be in the water within minutes.
Ciudad Amurallada
UNESCO World HeritageThe historic heart of Cartagena. Colonial streets, restaurants, bars, and pure magic. 15-20 minutes by taxi to our beach.
Getsemaní
Artsy & alternativeCartagena's coolest neighborhood. Street art, hip hostels, rooftop bars. More budget-friendly than the Walled City.
Castillogrande
Quiet & residentialQuieter than Bocagrande, more residential. Great beaches, fewer tourists. 10-15 minutes from us.
What else to do in Cartagena
Cartagena has so much more than watersports. Here are our favorite recommendations.
Islands
- Rosario Islands (boat tour)
- Playa Blanca in Baru
- Cholon (ocean party)
- Isla Mucura
Culture
- Walled City (walking tour)
- San Felipe Castle
- Gold Museum
- Clock Tower
Food
- Cartagena-style ceviche
- Arepa de huevo (egg-stuffed corn cake)
- Coconut cocadas (candy)
- Corozo juice (local berry)
Nightlife
- Cafe del Mar (sunset drinks)
- Bazurto Social Club
- Alquimico (craft cocktails)
- Plaza de la Trinidad
Recommended itineraries
Not sure where to start? Here are three tried-and-tested plans for different travel styles.
3-Day Adventure
For thrill seekers
Day 1
Morning kitesurf or surf lesson. Lunch on the beach. Free afternoon in Bocagrande.
Day 2
Morning jet ski across the bay. Afternoon exploring the Walled City and dinner downtown.
Day 3
Sunrise paddleboard. Afternoon boat trip to Rosario Islands or Playa Blanca.
Practical travel info
Visa
Most countries don't need a visa for stays up to 90 days (USA, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, most of Latin America).
Currency
Colombian peso (COP). 1 USD ~ 4,200 COP. Dollars accepted in tourist areas but you'll get a better rate paying in pesos. ATMs everywhere.
SIM & WiFi
Buy a local SIM from Claro or Movistar at the airport (~COP 30,000 for 10GB). WiFi available at most hotels and restaurants.
98% of Colombia uses WhatsApp. It's the easiest way to reach us, restaurants, hotels and transport services.
Safety
Tourist areas are safe. Use common sense: take safe taxis at night, don't flash valuables, stick to known areas. Tourist police are available.
Essential phrases
"Hola" (hello), "Gracias" (thanks), "Cuanto cuesta?" (how much?), "La cuenta" (the check), "Playa" (beach), "Cerveza" (beer), "Chevere" (awesome).
Emergency contacts
From the Blog
Frequently asked questions about Cartagena
Ready for your Cartagena adventure?
Message us and we'll put together the perfect watersports plan for your trip. No commitment, just good vibes.
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