Isla Barú facts for kids
Isla Barú, also known as Barú Island, is a beautiful piece of land located just south of Cartagena, Colombia. It used to be connected to the mainland, but a canal called the Canal del Dique was built, separating it. Don't worry, you can still reach it by a bridge! The island stretches out about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) towards the southwest, pointing towards the Islas del Rosario. In some places, it's less than 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) wide. Around 20,000 people call this island home.
Most of the island's money comes from tourism. Many people visit Isla Barú for its amazing white sand beaches and clear waters. It's also a popular spot for summer homes.
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Exploring Isla Barú: What Makes It Special?
Isla Barú is famous for its stunning natural beauty. It's a perfect place for a relaxing vacation. The island offers a mix of quiet spots and lively areas, making it great for all kinds of visitors.
What Can You Do on Barú Island?
The main attraction on Isla Barú is its incredible beaches, especially Playa Blanca. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or try fun water sports like snorkeling and diving. The clear waters are perfect for seeing colorful fish and coral reefs. Many tours also offer boat trips around the island and to nearby islands.
How to Get to Isla Barú from Cartagena
Getting to Isla Barú from Cartagena is quite easy. You have several choices!
- By Boat: This is usually the quickest and most popular way. Many ferries and private boats leave from Cartagena's main docks.
- By Bus or Taxi: You can also take a bus or taxi. Since the island is connected by a bridge, land transport is an option.
- Private Transportation: For a more comfortable trip, you can arrange private transport.
Historical Events Near Barú Island
Isla Barú has a bit of history too. In 1708, a famous sea battle called Wager's Action happened off its coast. During this battle, a Spanish treasure ship called the San José sank. This ship was carrying a huge amount of treasure, and its wreck has been a subject of interest for many years.
Images for kids
See also
- Cartagena, Colombia
- Islas del Rosario
- Canal del Dique