San Andres is the largest of the islands that form the archipelago of San Andres Providence and Catalina. It is 13km (8miles) long and 5km across at its widest, with a total area of 28 square km (11 sq. miles). It is a small, north to south longitudinal mountainous island, covered by coconut palms groves, with an elevation at its high point of 55 m (180 ft). By its geologic and biological origin, the island of San Andrés is rocky, lacking fresh water, streams and without significant vegetation. The local people, who are predominately descended African slaves, are commonly called "raizales."

The beaches of the archipelago and of San Andres Island have beautiful sand, tinted with red coral, and clear water in 7 distinct tones of blue. The coral formations and the ring of reefs that border the island's coast give the water a beautiful multicolored appearance. For this reason, San Andres is known as the island of the sea of 7 colors. The colors can really be appreciated when arriving to the island by air. This unique aspect plus the watersports available to enjoy on the island and the surrounding small islands of just an acre or less in size.
The official languages are English and Spanish. The natives speak a carribean dialect of English called Bendé or Patois.
Banking Hours are from Monday through Friday, 8am to 11:30am and 2pm to 4pm, Friday until 4:30pm. Some banks open on Saturday morning and most have ATM cash machines.
Business hours are Monday through Saturday, from 9am to 12:30am and 3pm to 7:30pm. On Sundays and holidays, some businesses are open in the morning. The island has been an open port since 1953.
Things to See and Do
Beaches. The main tourist area, where the best hotels are located, is known as Sardina Bay, with white sands, shaded by palm trees. The water is calm and crystal clear and only steps away from the hotels. Across from the beach is the little island known as Johnny Cay, and can be reached by a 5 minute boat ride. On the island there are beaches, palm trees, and typical restaurants with moderate prices. If you prefer to find a more isolated and peaceful beach, head to the beaches of San Luis, at Sound Bay, just 10 minutes from downtown. Decameron, San Luis, and Cocplum Beach Hotels are located there and can be reached by an inexpensive city bus ride. For something besides sand beaches, there other interesting spots, natural cliffs, jetties, or swimming pools, like “La Piscine “ or West View, where you can go for a swim or dive without the waves or currents of the open sea.
North Cliff. A hill, the high spot on the island at 55 m (180 ft), where you can explore its caverns.
Iglesia de La Loma, Emanuel Baptist Church, built in 1847.
Fisherman´s Place, Green tile roof building where the artistic fishermen meet. You can you eat fresh fish with patacones or have the typical dish of the island called "Rondón" prepared for you.
Coral Place. Government Palace, exuberantly decorated with many plants, fountains and ornamental fish.
Island Tour. This 32 km (20 mile) tour, which normally lasts just over an hour, is a "must" if you want to get a feel for the island. You can rent a moto, taxi, or golf cart. Along the route are many interesting stopping points, such as the Blow Hole, where air forced by waves rushes in and out, occasionally shooting a geiser-like fountain of water high into the air.