The city of Maracaibo, Located in the heart of the cocoa-producing region of Venezuela, it is the ideal base from which to explore the area's beaches.
As the capital of the Zulia state, Maracaibo has beautiful colonial architecture and a lot of history. The largest body of water in the area is Lake Maracaibo, with the best beaches in northern Maracaibo on the furthest edges of the lake.
What to expect
Lake Maracaibo, an ancient lake believed to be the second oldest in the world, empties into the Gulf of Venezuela, so there is a slightly saline texture to the water. Oil spills that drain into the lake make it undesirable for swimming and sports.
Evidence of pollution also litters the beaches, so one must be careful when walking and exploring. To enjoy sandy beaches and clean water, you must take a ferry trip to the islands located between the lake and the gulf, about 25 miles north of Maracaibo.
San Carlos Island
It offers one of the most beautiful white sand beaches accessible by ferry. The island is located along the Strait of Magellan, which leads to the Gulf of Venezuela.
The boats leave from Punta Arenas, Muelle Navetur, the great port of Maracaibo, from which cruises depart for other parts of the world.
One of the main attractions of the island is the Castillo de San Carlos, a Spanish fortress built in the 17th century to protect Maracaibo. The beach is at the foot of the castle, and requires a short walk after the boat docks in the harbor.
Zapara Island
The sand dunes on Zapara Island offer a rugged tranquility that attracts locals and tourists alike. The dunes, reaching over 50 feet in height, lie right along the sandy shoreline just east of San Carlos Island.
After taking the ferry from Maracaibo to San Carlos Island, you need to hire a private boat that will take you through the water to reach Zapara Island. No hotels or lodgings are available on the island, so they plan to return to San Carlos Island or catch the boat back to Maracaibo for the night.
Toas Island
Another option accessible from Isla de San Carlos is from the beaches of Isla de Toas. The island, less than two miles south of San Carlos, requires a private boat ride. The quiet island is home to fishermen and miners, you will see few tourists.
Toas offers several beaches, such as Clam Chocal, Copacabana and La Playita. The beaches are found along the northern edge of the island, and include facilities such as restrooms and soda fountains.
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