Isla de Margarita

Venezuela, South America

Isla de Margarita, known as the "Pearl of the Caribbean," offers stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Renowned for its warm, turquoise waters and white sandy shores like Playa El Agua and Playa Parguito, it's a haven for relaxation and water sports. Explore the picturesque town of Pampatar, savor delicious local cuisine, and discover the island's colonial architecture. Isla de Margarita also hosts lively festivals, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Santiago Mariño

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Isla de Margarita

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on Playa El Agua

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at stunning beaches.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Parque Nacional Laguna de La Restinga

Kayak through mangroves and spot diverse wildlife.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Castillo de San Carlos de Borromeo

Discover the historic fortress with ocean views.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Porlamar's markets

Find local crafts and souvenirs at vibrant markets.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local cuisine at El Mercado

Savor traditional Venezuelan dishes in a lively setting.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit La Playa de Parguito

Experience one of the island's best surf spots.

No booking required
7

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Go scuba diving at Isla de Coche

Explore vibrant marine life in clear waters.

Booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Experience nightlife in Porlamar

Dance and socialize at lively bars and clubs.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in Sierra de Macarena

Discover stunning landscapes and local flora.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Dolphinarium

Watch exciting dolphin shows and marine life.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-8 (#127 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Bolivar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pabellón

Shredded beef with rice and beans (National dish)

Arepas

V

Cornmeal cakes with various fillings

Hallacas

Corn dough stuffed with meat, wrapped in leaves

Cachapas

V

Sweet corn pancakes, often with cheese

Asado Negro

Slow-cooked beef in a dark sauce

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)