Last updated on .
Bocagrande is an upscale area of Cartagena full of tall white high-rises on a thin strip of land.
Introduction to Bocagrande
Bocagrande is a soulless strip of land that runs for several blocks south from the historic Old Town. It ends at a quieter area called El Laguito. The area is full of upscale and budget hotels, shopping, and restaurants.
The Beach
The city’s main beaches are located at Bocagrande, and they aren’t anything to write home about. They’re nothing like what you’d expect from the Caribbean. I see an overcrowded and dirty beach with brown sand and murky water. You’re better off taking a day trip to the Rosario Islands or even the chaotic Playa Blanca.
El Laguito
The southern end of Bocagrande, El Laguito, curves around a polluted lagoon and is a bit quieter. It’s actually pleasant to walk on the path along the lagoon. The Hilton Cartagena is located at the very end.
Not My Kind of Place
Personally, I’m not a fan of Bocagrande and try to avoid it when I’m in town. There’s nothing interesting about it other than a few decent restaurants and nice upscale hotels. Other than that, it lacks culture and seems to exist as a poor excuse for a beach destination. I prefer staying in the Old Town or Getsemaní, which also helps me avoid the taxi rides. Another disadvantage is having to deal with aggressive street vendors (but that’s everywhere in Cartagena!) and waving off annoying taxi drivers that run along the main streets.
