Margarita Island is known for its sandy beaches, lively coastal towns, and duty-free shopping. Located approximately 12 mi (20 km) northeast of the mainland, Margarita is one of Venezuela’s most popular tourist destinations. Whether you prefer beachfront resorts, nightlife-packed cities, or secluded spots, this post will uncover the best areas to stay on Margarita Island.
Originally inhabited by the Indigenous Guaiquerí people, Margarita became Spanish territory as early as the 15th century. Named after the Greek word “Pearl,” its strategic location made it a center for trade and piracy. Today, colonial forts like Castillo de San Carlos de Borromeo in Pampatar and Fortín de la Galera in Juan Griego stand as reminders of the island’s turbulent history.
No visit to Margarita would be complete without experiencing its stunning beaches. Playa El Agua is the most famous, featuring soft white sand and a lively boardwalk. Meanwhile, Playa Parguito is great for surfing, offering stronger waves and a relaxed vibe. Further north, Playa Caribe in Juan Griego has calm waters and beautiful sunsets. Additionally, Coche Island offers quiet beaches and clear waters. Find accommodation in Margarita.
Beyond its beaches, Margarita also offers many natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. For example, El Yaque is the island’s top windsurfing destination. Meanwhile, the rugged Macanao Peninsula is perfect for hiking and off-road adventures, with scenic trails and remote landscapes. Laguna de la Restinga National Park also features mangrove-lined waterways and abundant birdlife.
Other key attractions on the island include the Basilica of Our Lady of El Valle, a pilgrimage destination known for its striking architecture, and the Museo Casa Santiago Mariño, focusing on the independence leader’s life and legacy.
Margarita Island is served by Santiago Mariño Caribbean International Airport (PMV), located approximately 7.5 mi (12 km) southwest of Porlamar. Ferries from the mainland also connect to the island’s ports. Renting a car is a popular way to explore, though taxis and buses are available.
Keep reading to discover the best areas to stay on Margarita Island for an unforgettable Caribbean experience.
What are the best areas to stay on Margarita Island?
The island features a mix of flat coastal areas, rolling hills, and the rugged Macanao Peninsula in the west, known for its arid landscapes and untouched beaches. The eastern side is more developed, with bustling towns, beach resorts, and commercial hubs. The island is connected by a narrow isthmus, contrasting its lively urban areas and quiet, nature-filled regions perfect for outdoor adventures. Find accommodation in Margarita.
The best area to stay on Margarita Island is Playa El Agua, the island’s top beach destination. This long, palm-lined shore is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It has a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly inns to luxury beachfront resorts, as well as restaurants and bars with ocean views. Find accommodation in Playa El Agua.
Other great areas include Porlamar, the island’s commercial and nightlife hub; Pampatar, with its colonial charm and waterfront dining; Paraguachí, a peaceful town; El Yaque, a hotspot for windsurfing; and La Asunción, the island’s historic capital.
1. Playa El Agua
The best area for a luxury holiday
Located on Margarita’s east end, Playa El Agua is a ideal choice for travelers to the island.
Playa El Agua is Margarita Island’s most famous tourist destination, featuring a 2.5-mile (4 km) stretch of golden sand lined with tall palm trees. The beach is known for its lively atmosphere, with a 2-mile (3 km) boulevard filled with beachfront restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and local dishes while taking in ocean views.
The beach offers calm waters ideal for swimming, with lifeguards on duty during peak hours. Water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides are also available. Sun loungers and umbrellas are easily accessible, making it a great spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Playa El Agua has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly posadas to luxury beachfront resorts. Public transportation and taxis provide easy access to the area, and ample parking is available for those arriving by car. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed beach day or a laid-back retreat, Playa El Agua remains the best place to stay for a classic Caribbean vacation on Margarita Island.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Playa El Agua
Hesperia Playa el Agua
Offering an outdoor pool and a beautiful beachfront location, Hesperia Playa El Agua is located in El Agua, within Margarita Island. Free WiFi access is available.
2. Pampatar
The best area for nightlife on Margarita Island
Upscale Pampatar is packed with shopping centers and nightlife areas.
Pampatar, located on Margarita Island’s southeastern coast, is a lively area that blends history, beaches, and modern conveniences. Founded in the 16th century, it is home to the San Carlos de Borromeo Fortress, a colonial-era fort that once defended the island from pirate attacks. Nearby, the Nuestra Señora del Cristo del Buen Viaje Church adds to Pampatar’s historical charm.
The town’s coastline features calm beaches ideal for swimming, along with beachfront restaurants and bars serving fresh seafood and traditional Venezuelan dishes. Just a short walk from the shore, Pampatar is also known for its shopping scene, with major malls like Centro Sambil Margarita, Centro Comercial La Vela, and Costa Azul offering retail stores, dining options, and entertainment.
Thanks to its proximity to Porlamar and Santiago Mariño Caribbean International Airport, Pampatar is both convenient and well-connected, making it a great choice for those looking to stay in an area that offers a bit of everything—history, shopping, and relaxed coastal vibes.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Pampatar
Aquarius Hotel Boutique
Located in Pampatar, a 7-minute walk from Playa Moreno, Aquarius Hotel Boutique has accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden, and a shared lounge. With a restaurant, the property also has a bar.
3. Porlamar
A Convenient location to stay on Margarita Island
The largest city on the island, Porlamar is one of the best areas to stay in Margarita.
Porlamar is the largest city on Margarita Island and its main commercial and urban center. Located on the southeastern coast, it offers a mix of shopping, dining, and beachfront areas, making it one of the island’s most dynamic destinations.
The city is known for its shopping scene, featuring local boutiques, street markets, and major malls like Centro Comercial Sambil Margarita. Restaurants in Porlamar serve everything from traditional Venezuelan dishes to international cuisine, offering plenty of options for food lovers.
Porlamar’s beaches include Playa Moreno and Playa La Caracola, both great for sunbathing and water activities. The city is also well-connected, with easy access to Santiago Mariño Caribbean International Airport and public transportation options to other parts of the island.
With its mix of city life, beaches, and entertainment, Porlamar is a great choice for travelers looking for a vibrant and convenient stay on Margarita Island.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Porlamar
Hotel Faranda Express Puerta del Sol Porlamar
Located in the heart of Porlamar, on Isla Margarita, this 4-star hotel has two outdoor swimming pools (children and adults) and a restaurant. There is also free private parking and free Wi-Fi.
4. El Yaque
The best location in Margarita for water sports
Whether you’re visiting for high-energy water sports or a laid-back coastal retreat, El Yaque is an ideal base.
El Yaque, on the southern coast of Margarita Island, is a world-famous destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Thanks to steady trade winds ranging from 15 to 30 knots throughout most of the year, this beach offers ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced riders. The shallow waters extend several hundred meters from the shore, making it a safe and accessible spot for water sports.
Beyond its sports appeal, El Yaque has a relaxed beach-town atmosphere, with oceanfront restaurants, bars, and shops catering to travelers. The beach is lined with hotels and guesthouses, many of which offer direct beach access and equipment rentals. Water temperatures remain warm year-round, allowing for an extended time in the water without the need for wetsuits.
El Yaque is also one of the most accessible beach areas on Margarita Island, located just 2 miles (3 km) from Santiago Mariño Caribbean International Airport. A short taxi ride connects visitors from the airport to the beach, making it a top choice for those looking for a quick and convenient seaside escape. El Yaque is also located about 15.6 miles (25.1 km) from the Punta de Piedras Ferry Terminal, the main maritime gateway connecting Margarita Island to the Venezuelan mainland.
Beyond its proximity to the airport, El Yaque serves as a gateway to Isla de Coche, a smaller island known for its tranquil beaches and excellent conditions for water sports. Regular boat services depart from El Yaque, taking approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Our hand-picked accommodations in El Yaque
Posada Buena Vista Beach Club
Featuring pool views, Posada Buena Vista Beach Club in El Yaque offers access to a terrace and free private parking. The bed and breakfast features an outdoor swimming pool, a public bath, and a 24-hour front desk.
5. Pedro González & La Playa
A quiet location to stay on Margarita Island
For travelers seeking tranquility, stunning beaches, and local charm, Pedro González and La Playa are excellent places to stay on Margarita Island.
Pedro González and Altagracia are neighboring towns on Margarita Island’s northern coast, known for their pristine beaches, peaceful atmosphere, and rich local culture. These coastal communities provide a quieter, more traditional alternative to the island’s busier resort areas.
Pedro González is a charming seaside town with Playa Pedro González, a tranquil beach with clear waters and soft sand. Just nearby, Playa Zaragoza is another scenic beach with gentle waves, making it a great spot for a relaxed swim. A short drive away, Playa Puerto Cruz offers a longer, more open beachfront, ideal for sunbathing and water activities.
Altagracia, slightly inland, is a quiet town with access to stunning coastal spots. It’s close to Playa Caribe, a local favorite for its beautiful sunsets and calm waters, and Playa Guayacán, a lesser-known beach with a more secluded feel.
These towns are also home to cultural attractions, including Hacienda El Tanque, a historic rum distillery dating back to the 19th century. The region maintains a laid-back vibe, with small local restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Venezuelan dishes.
Our hand-picked accommodations in La Playa
Sunsol Ecoland
Sunsol Ecoland features free bikes, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a garden in Pedro Gonzalez. This property also offers a restaurant, a shared lounge, room service, and free WiFi.
Hesperia Isla Margarita
Facing the beachfront, Hesperia Isla Margarita offers 5-star accommodations in La Playa. The property has a garden, terrace, and restaurant. It also provides a bar and a tennis court. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, nightclub, and kids’ club.
6. Paraguachí
The best location in Margarita for families
With colonial charm and nearby beaches, Paraguachí is one of the best areas to stay on Margarita Island.
Paraguachí is the capital of Antolín del Campo Municipality and one of Margarita Island’s oldest towns, founded in 1535. Its name comes from an Indigenous word, often interpreted as “house of the sun” or “place where the sun rises.” The town retains a laid-back atmosphere with historic buildings and cultural traditions that reflect its deep-rooted past.
Every year, Paraguachí celebrates the Fiestas de San José in March, featuring cultural events, food fairs, and religious processions honoring its patron saint. Another local tradition is the Feria del Papelón, held on May 1st, where visitors can see traditional papelón (unrefined cane sugar) production and try regional dishes.
Paraguachí is just a short drive from some of Margarita Island’s best beaches. Playa Parguito, known for its strong waves and surfing scene, is a favorite among water sports enthusiasts. Nearby, Playa El Agua offers a livelier setting with restaurants and bars along its palm-lined boulevard. These beaches make Paraguachí a great base for travelers who want easy access to the coast while enjoying a quieter, more traditional environment inland.
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