During your visit to Caracola Beach and Spa Resort, travel back in history to the colonial days when the Spaniards of Isla Margarita found refuge in fortresses and forts that were used to protect its ports from pirates and other threats to the island.
Isla Margarita has a few prominent forts and fortresses that still remain today which visitors of the island can visit.
Castillo de Santa Rosa: This fort was built between 1586 and 1595, and is located atop La Caranta hill in Pampatar. This fort was originally built to shut off access to Pampatar’s shore; however, that tasks could never be achieved because it was destroyed by Dutch pirates during an attack in 1626.
This fort is also famous for having served as a dungeon to heroin Luisa Arismendi Cáceres, for approximately three months. It has since been declared historic national monument on October 26, 1965. Access to the castle is very easy with a paved road, signs, and parking. It also offers a spectacular view of the Valley of Santa Lucia and is open to visitors all week long.
Castillo de San Carlos: This fort was built between 1664 and 1684 and was built at the entrance of the Palma de Mallorca port that it was built to defend. This was the most important fort on the island because it was built to protect the bay of Pampatar. It is currently in the naval base and home to the city’s Historical Military Museum.
Fortin Espana: This fort, which is located atop a hill on the outskirts of Santa Ana del Norte, is only a small guard outpost; however, it proved to be of great importance to protect the main road between Juan Griego and La Asuncion. This fort was one of the main sites where the struggle for independence took place and the state of Nueva Esparta was proclaimed. This fort had tunnels leading to the church of Santa Anna, the Castle of Santa Rosa and San Carlos de Borromeo Castle, which have since closed.
Fortin de la Galera: This fort, which was built in 1811 by the Margarita Provincial Joint, was given the name La Libertad (freedom) after a battle for independence was held around its walls on August 8, 1817. This building is now the perfect place to admire colorful sunsets over Caribbean waters. The view from here extends over the Island’s entire west side, where the tranquil waters of La Galera bay and Juan Griego bay meet.
Be sure to visit one, or all, of these historical forts on Isla Margarita for more information of their importance to the island.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Thursday, October 21, 2010
You Must Visit These Places on Isla Margarita
Cities:
Porlamar- This is the biggest city on Isla Margarita and is known for its commercial center. It has a wide variety of shops and restaurants, sure to appeal to every taste. Boulevard Guevara, a narrow, store-lined road, is the best place to shop at good prices. The city also has two major beaches: Playa Moreno and Playa Guacuco.
Pampatar- This is the home to most of the largest shopping malls on Isla Margarita, including Sambil Margarita, Rattan Depot, Centro Commercial Avenida Bolivar, and La Redoma. It also houses the Castillo de San Carlos de Borromeo, which was constructed entirely of coral and built on the waterfront of the town center to protect the bay of Pampatar.
La Asuncion- This is the oldest city on Isla Margarita and is the capital of the Federal State of Nueva Esparta. It is also the center of the commercial and manufacturing industries, which include the growing of cotton, sugarcane, coconuts, and cassava.
Juan Griego- This city has small shopping centers and beaches but is well known for the fortress La Galera. La Galera is not far from the center of the city and it is where the fierce battle of independence was fought in the 1820’s.
Excursions:
Los Roques- The clear, calm waters and white sand beaches will surround you in this true paradise. The National Park of Los Roques is comprised of more than 350 islands and a number of coral banks, keys, and small desolate islands for enjoying and exploring.
La Blanquilla- Here you will be able to swim under cliffs and find backwaters of interior beaches whose pearly white sands and clear waters have made this destination a must see site. You will also find the perfect cliffs for wall diving in this area.
Cubagua- Thanks to the influence of a nearby ocean trench, the water of the bay stays in the upper 60s to low 70s year round and it is still possible to find oysters here. Ruins from the past can be found on the eastern side and provide guests with a perfect opportunity to explore the history of Cubagua.
Canaima- This is one of the more impressive tourist destinations around the area. The Canaima lagoon is fed by several small waterfalls, and all of which can be enjoyed from a Curiara (a long canoe) to provide you with a closer view. Something really surprising about this area is the color of the water and the sand. Due to the abundance of minerals, the water takes on red color and the sand is a beautiful light pink, because of the presence of quartz.
Restaurants:
Casa Caranta- Housed in a beautifully restored colonial-era house in downtown Pampatar, this creative restaurant is a must stop on any visit to Isla Margarita. Italy, Asia, and America are the principal inspirations for the regularly changing menu, which is handwritten on a few large chalkboards and brought to your table. With live entertainment most nights, this restaurant really gets going after around 10pm each evening.
El Pacífico- This is the best beachside joint of all the restaurants that line the strip of Playa El Agua. Get a table near the large windows overlooking the sea, or live dangerously and dine at a table under one of the tall coconut palm trees.
Nikkei - This stylish restaurant serves up a wide range of traditional and fusion creations from the cuisines of Peru, Japan and a few of other Asian countries. The second-floor dining room is actually a large loft, with walls of solid glass on all sides. It is recommended that you try to mix and match dishes for a Pan-Asian/Peruvian feast.
Porlamar- This is the biggest city on Isla Margarita and is known for its commercial center. It has a wide variety of shops and restaurants, sure to appeal to every taste. Boulevard Guevara, a narrow, store-lined road, is the best place to shop at good prices. The city also has two major beaches: Playa Moreno and Playa Guacuco.
Pampatar- This is the home to most of the largest shopping malls on Isla Margarita, including Sambil Margarita, Rattan Depot, Centro Commercial Avenida Bolivar, and La Redoma. It also houses the Castillo de San Carlos de Borromeo, which was constructed entirely of coral and built on the waterfront of the town center to protect the bay of Pampatar.
La Asuncion- This is the oldest city on Isla Margarita and is the capital of the Federal State of Nueva Esparta. It is also the center of the commercial and manufacturing industries, which include the growing of cotton, sugarcane, coconuts, and cassava.
Juan Griego- This city has small shopping centers and beaches but is well known for the fortress La Galera. La Galera is not far from the center of the city and it is where the fierce battle of independence was fought in the 1820’s.
Excursions:
Los Roques- The clear, calm waters and white sand beaches will surround you in this true paradise. The National Park of Los Roques is comprised of more than 350 islands and a number of coral banks, keys, and small desolate islands for enjoying and exploring.
La Blanquilla- Here you will be able to swim under cliffs and find backwaters of interior beaches whose pearly white sands and clear waters have made this destination a must see site. You will also find the perfect cliffs for wall diving in this area.
Cubagua- Thanks to the influence of a nearby ocean trench, the water of the bay stays in the upper 60s to low 70s year round and it is still possible to find oysters here. Ruins from the past can be found on the eastern side and provide guests with a perfect opportunity to explore the history of Cubagua.
Canaima- This is one of the more impressive tourist destinations around the area. The Canaima lagoon is fed by several small waterfalls, and all of which can be enjoyed from a Curiara (a long canoe) to provide you with a closer view. Something really surprising about this area is the color of the water and the sand. Due to the abundance of minerals, the water takes on red color and the sand is a beautiful light pink, because of the presence of quartz.
Restaurants:
Casa Caranta- Housed in a beautifully restored colonial-era house in downtown Pampatar, this creative restaurant is a must stop on any visit to Isla Margarita. Italy, Asia, and America are the principal inspirations for the regularly changing menu, which is handwritten on a few large chalkboards and brought to your table. With live entertainment most nights, this restaurant really gets going after around 10pm each evening.
El Pacífico- This is the best beachside joint of all the restaurants that line the strip of Playa El Agua. Get a table near the large windows overlooking the sea, or live dangerously and dine at a table under one of the tall coconut palm trees.
Nikkei - This stylish restaurant serves up a wide range of traditional and fusion creations from the cuisines of Peru, Japan and a few of other Asian countries. The second-floor dining room is actually a large loft, with walls of solid glass on all sides. It is recommended that you try to mix and match dishes for a Pan-Asian/Peruvian feast.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Construction has Begun on Caracola Beach and Spa Resort
Construction has officially begun on the Caribbean’s newest luxury resort, Caracola Beach and Spa Resort, on Isla Margarita.
The Suites
The resort will feature 1244 one and two bedroom luxury suites spread over 15 floors with nearly all having breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. The first phase of construction has just begun on this amazing resort and will consist of the first 276 luxury condos being built.
Each deluxe condominium will be constructed of the highest standards and will feature a fully-fitted modern kitchen, inviting living room, tranquil balcony, and climate controlled air conditioning system. These spectacular units will be the ultimate in comfort and luxury.
The Amenities
The resort will offer its guests many amenities including delectable restaurants plus a nightclub, and four refreshing swimming pools with waterslides, a lazy river and tropical swim-up bars. Caracola Beach and Spa Resort will also boast a fully-equipped gym, full-service spa with hairdressers, and high end retail establishments. Here you will find yourself lost in paradise while relaxing in seaside hammocks or lying on the sandy beach while the waves of the Caribbean Sea travel over your feet.
The Location
Isla Margarita, which is also known as the “Pearl of the Caribbean,” is the most developed of the three islands that make up the State of Nueva Esparta. Isla Margarita features dramatic mountainous terrain, lush vegetation, flora and fauna, and many stunning white sandy beaches. Temperatures on the island are fairly consistent at 80 degrees, and although located in the Caribbean, it is not in the hurricane belt. All guests that visit the area are provided with a very comfortable environment due to the warm days and cool evenings.
Social Media Sites
To follow the progress of the resort, visit our social media sites!
Twitter: http://twitter.com/caracolaresort
Xanga: http://caracolaresort.xanga.com/
Blogger: http://caracolabeachandsparesort.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Margarita-island/Caracola-Beach-and-Spa-Resort/58894982155
For more information regarding Caracola Beach and Spa Resort, please visit http://caracolabeachsparesort.com/
The Suites
The resort will feature 1244 one and two bedroom luxury suites spread over 15 floors with nearly all having breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. The first phase of construction has just begun on this amazing resort and will consist of the first 276 luxury condos being built.
Each deluxe condominium will be constructed of the highest standards and will feature a fully-fitted modern kitchen, inviting living room, tranquil balcony, and climate controlled air conditioning system. These spectacular units will be the ultimate in comfort and luxury.
The Amenities
The resort will offer its guests many amenities including delectable restaurants plus a nightclub, and four refreshing swimming pools with waterslides, a lazy river and tropical swim-up bars. Caracola Beach and Spa Resort will also boast a fully-equipped gym, full-service spa with hairdressers, and high end retail establishments. Here you will find yourself lost in paradise while relaxing in seaside hammocks or lying on the sandy beach while the waves of the Caribbean Sea travel over your feet.
The Location
Isla Margarita, which is also known as the “Pearl of the Caribbean,” is the most developed of the three islands that make up the State of Nueva Esparta. Isla Margarita features dramatic mountainous terrain, lush vegetation, flora and fauna, and many stunning white sandy beaches. Temperatures on the island are fairly consistent at 80 degrees, and although located in the Caribbean, it is not in the hurricane belt. All guests that visit the area are provided with a very comfortable environment due to the warm days and cool evenings.
Social Media Sites
To follow the progress of the resort, visit our social media sites!
Twitter: http://twitter.com/caracolaresort
Xanga: http://caracolaresort.xanga.com/
Blogger: http://caracolabeachandsparesort.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Margarita-island/Caracola-Beach-and-Spa-Resort/58894982155
For more information regarding Caracola Beach and Spa Resort, please visit http://caracolabeachsparesort.com/
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Looking for the Perfect Beach for Your Isla Margarita Vacation?
Be sure to check these out!
Playa El Agua
This beach is the most famous and popular beach on Isla Margarita. It’s populated with over 50 restaurants, kiosks and small beach bars, while the boulevard along the beach provides visitors with shops, restaurants, and internet cafes.
This beach offers many activities including several water sports, micro plane rides, concerts, and an active nightlife. Despite all that is going on, this beach is still big enough to give you some space on your own. However, you should be aware that there are always waves here, sometimes big, sometimes small. So if you are traveling with small children, there are other beaches which would be more suitable.
Playa Parguito
Like Playa El Agua, this beach also has some waves, making it one of the best beaches for surfing on Isla Margarita. Jorge Hautmann (or Pakayola), runs a surf school here, and offers both surfboard rentals and surfing lessons to travelers. Here you will find some restaurants which open early and serve breakfast, while others open from noon until early evening. If you walk down to the ends of the beach you will find great lookout areas that give a nice view of the area.
Playa Manzanillo
This beach is located near the northern tip of Isla Margarita, not far from Playa El Agua. It is a small beach but never very crowded, and its quiet waters offer an ideal swimming location. Since Manzanillo is actually a small fishing village, you might see a fleet of fishing boats in the bay, or even experience fisherman drawing their nets to shore. This area also has several restaurants that will rent beach chairs and umbrellas, as well as serve food and drinks.
Playa Caribe
This beach is located on the north side of the island. It offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere with quite a few good restaurants along the coastline, as well as some nice caves for exploring near the end of the beach. Facilities on this beach include food, drinks, toilets, sunshades, and beds. If you get a chance, visit the restaurant La Playya which offers quick service and a great meal!
Playa El Agua
This beach is the most famous and popular beach on Isla Margarita. It’s populated with over 50 restaurants, kiosks and small beach bars, while the boulevard along the beach provides visitors with shops, restaurants, and internet cafes.
This beach offers many activities including several water sports, micro plane rides, concerts, and an active nightlife. Despite all that is going on, this beach is still big enough to give you some space on your own. However, you should be aware that there are always waves here, sometimes big, sometimes small. So if you are traveling with small children, there are other beaches which would be more suitable.
Playa Parguito
Like Playa El Agua, this beach also has some waves, making it one of the best beaches for surfing on Isla Margarita. Jorge Hautmann (or Pakayola), runs a surf school here, and offers both surfboard rentals and surfing lessons to travelers. Here you will find some restaurants which open early and serve breakfast, while others open from noon until early evening. If you walk down to the ends of the beach you will find great lookout areas that give a nice view of the area.
Playa Manzanillo
This beach is located near the northern tip of Isla Margarita, not far from Playa El Agua. It is a small beach but never very crowded, and its quiet waters offer an ideal swimming location. Since Manzanillo is actually a small fishing village, you might see a fleet of fishing boats in the bay, or even experience fisherman drawing their nets to shore. This area also has several restaurants that will rent beach chairs and umbrellas, as well as serve food and drinks.
Playa Caribe
This beach is located on the north side of the island. It offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere with quite a few good restaurants along the coastline, as well as some nice caves for exploring near the end of the beach. Facilities on this beach include food, drinks, toilets, sunshades, and beds. If you get a chance, visit the restaurant La Playya which offers quick service and a great meal!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Isla Margarita’s Adventures on the Water
While visiting Caracola Beach and Spa Resort, what better way is there to enjoy your day then spending it on the water? Caracola Beach and Spa Resort and the beaches of Isla Margarita offer guests many different ways to enjoy the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.
The area offers:
•Boogie board rentals
•Ski boat and jet ski rentals
•Water skiing and wake boarding
•Boat charters
•Fishing boat rentals
•Kayaking, canoeing, and rafting
•Parasailing
•Snorkeling and scuba diving
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Isla Margarita offers some of the best Caribbean scuba diving and snorkeling locations in the area. The two most popular snorkeling and dive locations close to Isla Margarita are Los Frailes and Isla Cubagua.
Los Frailes is a group of about five small uninhabited rock islands that are ranked as the absolute best diving place around the island. Its location provides the presence of large sea nutrients, which make it a place of great biological diversity. The main attraction at this location is the abundant and diverse underwater life. Los Frailes also offers small platforms, canyons, and smaller caves for exploring.
Isla Cubagua is one of the sister islands of Isla Margarita and is a popular location due to the wreck of a sunken ferry divers can explore. The cars of the ferry are still intact and provide an excellent photo opportunity. What also makes this location interesting is the diversity and abundance of fish. This location is truly recommended if guests are looking for adventure.
Windsurfing
Windsurfing, which got its start on Isla Margarita due to the areas strong, warm winds and warm water, has become a windsurfer’s paradise. Isla Margarita is now recognized as one of the top five windsurfing destinations worldwide and is known by many as the capital of windsurfing.
Playa El Yaque is the most famous windsurfer destination on Isla Margarita and attracts more and more windsurfers annually. The shallow waters here provide the perfect conditions for both the beginning windsurfer and the more advanced surfer practicing maneuvers and tricks.
Even if you are not a windsurfer, Playa El Yaque is a great destination to experience and you will definitely enjoy a great show. You may even be lucky enough to catch a professional windsurfer practicing for the Professional Windsurfing Association competitions which take place on this beach each year.
The area offers:
•Boogie board rentals
•Ski boat and jet ski rentals
•Water skiing and wake boarding
•Boat charters
•Fishing boat rentals
•Kayaking, canoeing, and rafting
•Parasailing
•Snorkeling and scuba diving
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Isla Margarita offers some of the best Caribbean scuba diving and snorkeling locations in the area. The two most popular snorkeling and dive locations close to Isla Margarita are Los Frailes and Isla Cubagua.
Los Frailes is a group of about five small uninhabited rock islands that are ranked as the absolute best diving place around the island. Its location provides the presence of large sea nutrients, which make it a place of great biological diversity. The main attraction at this location is the abundant and diverse underwater life. Los Frailes also offers small platforms, canyons, and smaller caves for exploring.
Isla Cubagua is one of the sister islands of Isla Margarita and is a popular location due to the wreck of a sunken ferry divers can explore. The cars of the ferry are still intact and provide an excellent photo opportunity. What also makes this location interesting is the diversity and abundance of fish. This location is truly recommended if guests are looking for adventure.
Windsurfing
Windsurfing, which got its start on Isla Margarita due to the areas strong, warm winds and warm water, has become a windsurfer’s paradise. Isla Margarita is now recognized as one of the top five windsurfing destinations worldwide and is known by many as the capital of windsurfing.
Playa El Yaque is the most famous windsurfer destination on Isla Margarita and attracts more and more windsurfers annually. The shallow waters here provide the perfect conditions for both the beginning windsurfer and the more advanced surfer practicing maneuvers and tricks.
Even if you are not a windsurfer, Playa El Yaque is a great destination to experience and you will definitely enjoy a great show. You may even be lucky enough to catch a professional windsurfer practicing for the Professional Windsurfing Association competitions which take place on this beach each year.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Don’t Forget to Pack These Items for your Caribbean Vacation
Packing for a Caribbean vacation is a lot like packing for any other tropical destination: bringing protection from the sun and heat is key! Below you’ll find some tips on things to bring, as well as things you may forget to bring.
1. Make sure you have all of your travel documents in order, as well as secured in a safe but accessible place. This includes a valid passport, driver's license, airline tickets and/or boarding passes. A pocketbook or outside pocket of your carry-on bag is ideal for holding these, since you'll need easy access at the airport and upon arrival at the hotel. Also, be sure to pack copies of prescriptions for medications, which should be carried in their original containers.
2. In your carry-on bag, pack your toiletry bag and at least one change of clothing, as well as a bathing suit. In the case that your luggage gets lost, being able to slip on a swimsuit and wait poolside for your bags beats sitting in your room. Also, bring some small bills for tips and cash for cabs and other services.
3. In your toiletry bag, besides the usual, don't forget to pack lip balm (hot sun equals chapped lips), bug spray (especially useful for hikes or other inland activities), etc.
4. Within reason, pack light. The less you pack, the less you have to carry. Most clothes appropriate for the Caribbean are lightweight to begin with, and can be worn more than once on a trip. Don’t forget to bring: socks and underwear, at least two pairs of cotton, khaki, or linen pants (these are lightweight and dry quickly; leave your denim jeans home), plenty of shorts (can double as a swimsuit in an emergency), and t-shirts. For the evening or excessively air-conditioned hotel lobbies and restaurants, bring a light sweater or jacket.
5.For the beach, pack at least two swimsuits (nothing is more annoying than putting on a soggy bathing suit, which dry slowly in the muggy tropics), multiple pairs of UV-rated sunglasses, waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum), a brimmed hat (to protect your head, face, neck and ears from the sun), and a sarong or wrap (for women). Also, don’t forget to bring some aloe vera to soothe the inevitable sunburn you’ll most likely get.
6. Bring a small backpack or cloth bag along to throw your stuff in when you head to the beach or off on an excursion.
7. Don’t forget to pack a camera! Bring plenty of film and/or digital media from home, as these can be expensive in the islands. Also, don’t forget to pack your film in your carry-on to prevent damage from heavy-duty x-ray machines used to inspect checked bags.
8. If you plan to snorkel, bring your own: this is one item you won’t want to rent, but probably won’t think about bringing until it’s too late. On the other hand, you may find it easier to rent golf clubs or tennis racquets than to pack your own.
9. And lastly, don’t forget to leave some space for souvenirs you plan to buy. It’s better to under pack a bigger suitcase than to have to carry around shopping bag(s) through the airport on the way home.
1. Make sure you have all of your travel documents in order, as well as secured in a safe but accessible place. This includes a valid passport, driver's license, airline tickets and/or boarding passes. A pocketbook or outside pocket of your carry-on bag is ideal for holding these, since you'll need easy access at the airport and upon arrival at the hotel. Also, be sure to pack copies of prescriptions for medications, which should be carried in their original containers.
2. In your carry-on bag, pack your toiletry bag and at least one change of clothing, as well as a bathing suit. In the case that your luggage gets lost, being able to slip on a swimsuit and wait poolside for your bags beats sitting in your room. Also, bring some small bills for tips and cash for cabs and other services.
3. In your toiletry bag, besides the usual, don't forget to pack lip balm (hot sun equals chapped lips), bug spray (especially useful for hikes or other inland activities), etc.
4. Within reason, pack light. The less you pack, the less you have to carry. Most clothes appropriate for the Caribbean are lightweight to begin with, and can be worn more than once on a trip. Don’t forget to bring: socks and underwear, at least two pairs of cotton, khaki, or linen pants (these are lightweight and dry quickly; leave your denim jeans home), plenty of shorts (can double as a swimsuit in an emergency), and t-shirts. For the evening or excessively air-conditioned hotel lobbies and restaurants, bring a light sweater or jacket.
5.For the beach, pack at least two swimsuits (nothing is more annoying than putting on a soggy bathing suit, which dry slowly in the muggy tropics), multiple pairs of UV-rated sunglasses, waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum), a brimmed hat (to protect your head, face, neck and ears from the sun), and a sarong or wrap (for women). Also, don’t forget to bring some aloe vera to soothe the inevitable sunburn you’ll most likely get.
6. Bring a small backpack or cloth bag along to throw your stuff in when you head to the beach or off on an excursion.
7. Don’t forget to pack a camera! Bring plenty of film and/or digital media from home, as these can be expensive in the islands. Also, don’t forget to pack your film in your carry-on to prevent damage from heavy-duty x-ray machines used to inspect checked bags.
8. If you plan to snorkel, bring your own: this is one item you won’t want to rent, but probably won’t think about bringing until it’s too late. On the other hand, you may find it easier to rent golf clubs or tennis racquets than to pack your own.
9. And lastly, don’t forget to leave some space for souvenirs you plan to buy. It’s better to under pack a bigger suitcase than to have to carry around shopping bag(s) through the airport on the way home.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Learn About the Area of Isla Margarita
Orientation
Isla Margarita is 43 miles long and is actually two islands connected by a narrow Isthmus. The other Island, Peninsula de Macanao, is largely unpopulated compared to Isla Margarita.
The most important town on Isla Margarita is Porlamar, which is made up of a population of 100,000 people. It was originally given the name ‘Puerto de la Mar’ but was eventually shortened to Porlamar. This town has been very important to Isla Margarita due to its urban and commercial growth over the last 15 years. The area has changed from a quaint fisherman’s village to a larger lifestyle full of skyscrapers, night clubs, many hotels, and amazing restaurants.
There are actually two distinct sections of Porlamar. As you first enter the city limits you will notice a very crowded living environment filled with local residents, stores, houses, and cars. As you continue on you will reach the tourist based area in the city. The tourist area is dominated by two streets: Avenida Santiago Marino and Avendia 4 de Mayo. These areas are usually crowded with stores selling international goods and fast food restaurants. You will also find many recognizable stores here such as Nike, Ralph Lauren, Polo, Lindt, and more.
History
Christopher Columbus discovered Isla Margarita in 1498 during his third voyage to America where local islanders welcomed him and his explorers with open arms. It was not until the Spaniards discovered large amounts of pearls on the island that everything changed. This is where the name ‘Pearl Island’ originated from. Once these pearls were found, the Spaniards conquered the island and held the islanders as slaves.
Upon the discovery of these pearls, pirates began attacking the island which resulted in the Spanish building many fortresses which were used to prevent these attacks. Some of these fortresses still remain today and have become popular tourist attractions where visitors can experience the Spanish architecture left behind. It was not until 1841 that the islanders fought back and reclaimed their territory, making Isla Margarita the first independent territory.
Today, the feelings of hospitality that this island once felt toward visitors is still alive and Isla Margarita welcomes all visitors to come experience their spectacular surroundings.
Must Visit Tourist Spots
Santuario de la Virgen: The legend says that this sacred image was found in the Cueva del Piache, in the former Valle Charaima, now called Valle del Espíritu Santo.
Isla de Cubagua: During colonial times Cubagua boomed due to its rich pearl fisheries, which were soon exhausted. An earthquake eventually destroyed the town, but it’s now visited because of it quiet waters.
Isla de Coche: An island off of Isla Margarita that is devoted to fishing, salt mining, and tourism.
Laguna Las Marites: A lovely lagoon ideal for water-skiing, fishing and boating.
Bahia de Pedro González: A quaint fishermen's village offering quite waters.
Isla Margarita is 43 miles long and is actually two islands connected by a narrow Isthmus. The other Island, Peninsula de Macanao, is largely unpopulated compared to Isla Margarita.
The most important town on Isla Margarita is Porlamar, which is made up of a population of 100,000 people. It was originally given the name ‘Puerto de la Mar’ but was eventually shortened to Porlamar. This town has been very important to Isla Margarita due to its urban and commercial growth over the last 15 years. The area has changed from a quaint fisherman’s village to a larger lifestyle full of skyscrapers, night clubs, many hotels, and amazing restaurants.
There are actually two distinct sections of Porlamar. As you first enter the city limits you will notice a very crowded living environment filled with local residents, stores, houses, and cars. As you continue on you will reach the tourist based area in the city. The tourist area is dominated by two streets: Avenida Santiago Marino and Avendia 4 de Mayo. These areas are usually crowded with stores selling international goods and fast food restaurants. You will also find many recognizable stores here such as Nike, Ralph Lauren, Polo, Lindt, and more.
History
Christopher Columbus discovered Isla Margarita in 1498 during his third voyage to America where local islanders welcomed him and his explorers with open arms. It was not until the Spaniards discovered large amounts of pearls on the island that everything changed. This is where the name ‘Pearl Island’ originated from. Once these pearls were found, the Spaniards conquered the island and held the islanders as slaves.
Upon the discovery of these pearls, pirates began attacking the island which resulted in the Spanish building many fortresses which were used to prevent these attacks. Some of these fortresses still remain today and have become popular tourist attractions where visitors can experience the Spanish architecture left behind. It was not until 1841 that the islanders fought back and reclaimed their territory, making Isla Margarita the first independent territory.
Today, the feelings of hospitality that this island once felt toward visitors is still alive and Isla Margarita welcomes all visitors to come experience their spectacular surroundings.
Must Visit Tourist Spots
Santuario de la Virgen: The legend says that this sacred image was found in the Cueva del Piache, in the former Valle Charaima, now called Valle del Espíritu Santo.
Isla de Cubagua: During colonial times Cubagua boomed due to its rich pearl fisheries, which were soon exhausted. An earthquake eventually destroyed the town, but it’s now visited because of it quiet waters.
Isla de Coche: An island off of Isla Margarita that is devoted to fishing, salt mining, and tourism.
Laguna Las Marites: A lovely lagoon ideal for water-skiing, fishing and boating.
Bahia de Pedro González: A quaint fishermen's village offering quite waters.
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