Every time I can, I go to Margarita Island in Nueva Esparta State, Venezuela. Who can resist not to visit gorgeous beaches at an island in the Caribbean?

Today, you can take a plane from different parts around the globe directly to this tropical island without stopping in Caracas. Also, from Anzoategui State, in the city of Puerto la Cruz, you can go to Margarita by ferry in 3 or 5 hours (it all depends which Ferry, I recommend you to use Conferry Express (3 hrs or less), it’s cleaner, secure and faster. Want faster? Take Gran Cacique which it’s also one of the best.

I usually stay for 3-4 days. In few days, you can visit every corner of the island, including the neighbors such as Cubagua and Coche.

Obviously, you’ll find lots of beaches -this is an island!- and every one of them are different and perfect for every one. My favorite one is El Yaque (close to the airport and ferry port), although it’s pretty windy which makes it perfect to practice sports such as Kite and Wind surf. From there, you can take a boat to Coche Island. At El Yaque, you can find small hotels but perfect to stay and relax, restaurants along the coastline, a pizzeria and few stores. It’s a small town that makes you feel away from everything. Even at night, especially during the weekends or holidays, a great party takes place at the beach by few deejays, so forget about shoes, join the party in your swimming suit!

If you rent a car, although you can find a taxi everywhere (always try to get them from the hotel or a mall), take a trip around the island. I’ve done it few times and it’s amazing to see a lot of the beaches, gorgeous views and great areas to stop and take a picture. Remember how cheap the gas is in Venezuela! You can get to the beautiful Punta Arenas beach or visit Laguna de la Restinga National Park that offers you more restaurants by the shore, a nice beach or take a tour on a boat around the park.

Other beaches to see, El Agua and Parguito, the party will begin at the beach during the highest season (specially during holy week and carnival). There are very pleasant hotels by El Agua beach, plus -more- restaurants (on the sand!), and little stores perfect to buy souvenirs for family and friends that are missing out the fun in Margarita Island!

Pampatar another area you cannot miss to drop by. Restaurants where you can have a nice time with friends or a romantic moment with that special one. You can stop by Castillo San Carlos Borromeo, where you can enjoy the gorgeous view to the bay.

Close to Pampatar, Sambil mall will invite you to buy from its stores, from local to international brands. Remember Margarita is taxes free! You can also visit La Vela mall with more stores.

In Juan Griego, you’ll find another fort on top of the hill, which it was recently renewed for a better stay. Take a walk around the stores in this town. Very local with nice prices!

Late in the afternoon (to avoid the bright sun) stroll by 4 de Mayo and Santiago Mariño. Lots of stores, vendors by the sidewalk where you can find handicrafts and more from locals.

Naturally, Margarita not only brings you the best during the day, the night life is full of energy wherever you step! Check out the beautiful and fun BoraBora. One of my favorite places is an English pub ‘The British Bulldog” at Centro Comercial Costa Azul. Live music every night with great local bands, in English or Spanish, it is a great area to hang out. If feel like going to a chill out spot, I really like spending some time in Yaque Beach, where they have few lounges by the beach.

Keep clean the beaches and places you visit!