Here’s something most first-time visitors to Cartagena don’t realize: between about noon and 3 p.m., walking around outside isn’t “adventurous”—it’s punishment. The heat sits on your shoulders, your clothes glue themselves to your back, and suddenly all that charming colonial architecture just feels like a mirage. Locals know this. That’s why we plan our days around those hours: morning explorations, sunset strolls, and in the middle? We find air-conditioning, a cold pool, or—our favorite move—escape to a beach club.
Momma Magno doing serious research at Éteka
This list is for travelers who want to experience Cartagena without losing half the day to the heat. Each of these beach clubs is close enough that you’re not spending hours on a boat. (That’s why we left the Rosario Islands off this list. They’re stunning, yes, but if you’re going to make that one-hour-plus crossing each way, we recommend hiring a private boat and doing it on your own schedule, not as a rushed day trip.)
The beach when arrving to Blue Apple Beach
Instead, these are the best beach clubs in Cartagena for cooling off, relaxing, and actually enjoying the tropical weather. You can wake up, explore the city in the morning, head out to one of these spots for a long lazy lunch, a dip in the pool or ocean, and still be back in time for a sunset drink on the walls of the Old City.
The private beach and pool at Sofitel Calablanca is next level
We’ve tried them all and ranked our current favorites based on vibe, food, setting, and overall experience. Whether you want lively music by the pool, a quiet adults-only hideaway, or a full-on luxury escape, there’s a spot here that’ll make you embrace the heat instead of hide from it.
Poolside at Makani
Check out our recommendations for best beach clubs in Cartagena below
