San Andrés

San Andrés needs 3 days: a ride around the island by bicycle or golf cart, with stops at West View and Hoyo Soplador, on one day, diving or snorkeling in the second-largest coral reef in the Caribbean on another, and a boat excursion to Johnny Cay and the Acuario on the third. December-April is best, with less rain. It's mid-to-high priced for Colombia, with direct flights from several cities in the country. Its popular nickname 'sea of seven colors' reflects the true turquoise gradients produced by its shallow coral shelf, and its duty-free port status also made it a shopping destination within the Colombian Caribbean.