Southwest Bay

Providencia Island, Colombia

About five minutes south of Fresh Water Bay, with an open-air restaurant situated perfectly on the beach amongst palm trees.

Places in Southwest Bay

Southwest Bay open-air restaurant An open-air restaurant situated perfectly on the beach amongst palm trees.

Best time to visit: December to April (dry season) offers the calmest seas and best visibility for snorkeling and diving on Colombia's largest coral reef.
Getting around: Providencia's roads are in great condition, connecting Fresh Water Bay, Southwest Bay, and Manchaneel Beach, with boat trips needed to reach Crab Cay and Old Providence McBean Lagoon National Natural Park.
Currency: Colombian Peso (COP $)
Language: Spanish. English is limited outside tourist areas.
Timezone: COT (UTC-5)
Current trends: Providencia's 'Sea of Seven Colors' identity continues to draw travelers seeking a quieter, less-developed Caribbean alternative, with Crab Cay snorkeling and diving on Colombia's largest coral reef anchoring the island's marine tourism, while boutique properties like Cabañas Agua Dulce and Deep Blue Hotel's private jetty reflect a growing small-scale luxury segment alongside the island's traditional posadas.

Fresh Water Bay — A nicer-looking beach with a small village, home to Cabañas Agua Dulce with private cabañas and a sunset bar.
Manchaneel Beach — One of the island's longer, more picturesque stretches of beach and mostly on its own.