Cartagena: Makani Luxury Beach Club Day Pass

A Caribbean reset starts with a boat ride. Makani Luxury Beach Club gives you a full day on Tierra Bomba Island, with round-trip boat transport from Bocagrande, a pool, a welcome drink, and free Wi-Fi. I like the easy island escape and the calm, polished setting. The main catch is that this is more of a pool day than a sea-swimming day, and the ride back can be bumpy.

The day pass costs COP 272,000 per person, listed at about $69, with a lower price of COP 189,000 for children ages 4 to 11. I also like the choice of departure times and optional private-style upgrades. Keep in mind that food, drinks, alcohol, and pets are not allowed from outside, and the pass is not suitable for people over 70.

Key points to know before booking

• Three boat schedules: Leave Bocagrande at 9, 10, or 11 a.m., then return at 3, 4, or 5 p.m.
• Pool-focused beach club: The setting is by the shore, but the sea may not be the best place for swimming.
• Kai Zone included: Your basic pass includes access to this area, plus the main pool and Wi-Fi.
• Extras cost much more: Mahalo Pool, daybeds, lounges, a viewpoint, and a jacuzzi are priced separately.
• Good for a relaxed celebration: The club lists options for romantic dinners, birthdays, anniversaries, barbecues, yoga, dance, fitness, and tantra.
• Prepare for the return ride: The boat trip back can be rough, so bring secure footwear and protect your belongings.

From Bocagrande to Tierra Bomba by boat

Your day begins at the back of Bocagrande Hospital, where a person from the hotel waits to meet you. This is the stated meeting point, so allow enough time to find the exact area rather than assuming the boat leaves from a typical marina entrance.

Makani offers three transport windows:

• 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The crossing takes you from Cartagena to Tierra Bomba Island, only a short distance from the city. The boat transfer is included in the day pass price, which makes the outing simpler than arranging transport and a beach club separately.

I would choose the 9 a.m. departure if you want the longest possible day. The 11 a.m. option works better if you dislike early starts, but you will have less time at the club. Since each option returns five or six hours after departure, check the selected slot carefully before you book.

The ride is part of the experience, but it is not always smooth. One useful warning is that the return trip can be bumpy. If you are prone to motion sickness, bring whatever you normally use. Keep your phone, camera, and other loose items in a secure bag, especially during the ride back.

Once you reach Makani, the day is yours to spend at the club. The listed package includes maritime transport from Bocagrande to the island and back, so you do not need to arrange an independent return.

What the COP 272,000 day pass includes

The regular adult pass costs COP 272,000 per person. Children ages 4 to 11 pay COP 189,000. The US dollar figure of about $69 can shift with exchange rates, so use the Colombian peso amount as your practical guide.

The included features are:

• Kai Zone access
• Round-trip maritime transportation
• Pool access
• One nonalcoholic welcome drink
• Free Wi-Fi

That is a fair package if you want a simple day away from Cartagena without planning several separate pieces. Transport alone is useful, and the pool gives you a reliable place to cool off. The welcome drink is nonalcoholic, so do not expect the pass to include a cocktail.

Food and drinks are not included in the stated pass. You also cannot bring outside food or beverages, including alcohol. That rule matters because your final spending will depend on what you buy inside the club.

I would budget beyond the admission price for lunch, drinks, or any upgraded seating. The pass offers a comfortable base, but it is not an all-inclusive package.

Kai Zone, the pool, and the actual beach experience

The main day pass centers on the Kai Zone and pool. This is the right setup for you if your ideal island outing means a lounge chair, pool time, drinks, and a change of scenery from Cartagena.

The club sits along a shore described as one of the more privileged parts of Tierra Bomba. Still, the sea itself may not be the star attraction. The most useful practical detail is that the experience functions mainly as a pool hangout, with limited appeal for anyone specifically hoping to swim in open water.

That distinction can save you from booking the wrong day. If you want a classic beach day with long stretches of sand and easy sea swimming, this may disappoint. If you prefer a managed pool area with island views and a set return boat, it makes more sense.

The pool also makes the experience easier for mixed-age groups. Children can enjoy the water, but the club is not adults-only. If you want a quiet couples retreat with no children around, keep that in mind before paying.

Free Wi-Fi is included, which is handy for checking messages or sharing a few photos. I would still treat the day as a chance to step away from the city rather than plan to work beside the pool.

Optional upgrades and what they really buy you

Makani offers five paid upgrades. These are not small add-ons, so look closely at the cost before choosing one.

Mahalo Pool

The Mahalo Pool costs COP 280,000 per person and allows a maximum of two people. Because the upgrade costs roughly as much as the basic day pass, it is best for a couple who wants a more private pool setup.

For a solo booking, the price may be hard to justify. For two people marking a special occasion, the extra space could make sense if a more private pool area matters to you.

Ohana Daybeds

Ohana Daybeds cost COP 650,000 per person, with a maximum of four people. This is a major jump from the standard ticket, so it fits best when comfort and a dedicated resting area are central to your plans.

A group of up to four can divide the cost, but the wording states the price per person. Confirm the exact charge when booking so you are not surprised by the total.

Luau Lounge

The Luau Lounge costs COP 550,000 per person and allows up to 10 people. The larger capacity makes it the most group-oriented option of the five.

It could suit a birthday or anniversary gathering, especially since Makani promotes celebrations and barbecues. Still, the total can become substantial, so compare the lounge cost with the price of simply using the standard pool area.

Makai Viewpoint

The Makai Viewpoint costs COP 850,000 per person, with a maximum of 12 people. This is the most expensive listed upgrade.

The name suggests a designated outlook, but the available information does not specify exactly what is provided beyond the viewpoint access. Ask for the inclusions before paying this premium. A scenic position may be worthwhile for a large celebration, but it is difficult to assess the value without knowing the seating, food, or service attached to it.

Maha Jacuzzi

The Maha Jacuzzi costs COP 750,000 per person and accommodates up to eight people. This is another special-occasion option rather than a casual add-on.

I would only choose it if the jacuzzi is the main reason you are visiting or if you are splitting the cost among a group. The regular pass already provides pool access, so the upgrade is about a more specific private setting, not basic comfort.

Food, drinks, and celebration plans

Makani promotes food and event possibilities that include romantic dinners, birthdays, anniversaries, and barbecues. It also lists yoga, dance, fitness classes, and tantra among its activities.

These offerings suggest that the club can work for more than a standard afternoon by the pool. The exact availability of classes or special meals is not stated, so contact Makani after booking if one of those activities is important to you.

The basic pass does not include food or alcoholic drinks. Since outside food and beverages are prohibited, plan to purchase what you need at the club. That can be convenient, but it also means the final bill may rise quickly.

For a romantic day, the pool and island setting may provide enough atmosphere without an upgrade. For a birthday or anniversary, one of the designated lounges, daybeds, or jacuzzi options may create a clearer sense of occasion.

The welcome drink is nonalcoholic. Alcoholic drinks are not permitted in the vehicle, and alcohol and drugs are listed among the prohibited items. Follow those rules from the start, since the boat transfer is part of the organized outing.

Who will enjoy Makani most

I would recommend this day pass to couples, families, and small groups who want a tidy island outing with transport included. It is especially useful if you have already seen Cartagena’s historic center and want a slower day by the water.

The experience also suits people who value a pool more than a natural beach. You get a fixed schedule, a pool, a welcome drink, and Wi-Fi without having to work out your own island logistics.

Families should note that children pay a reduced rate, but the club is not adults-only. A family can enjoy the pool, while a couple looking for total quiet may find the atmosphere less private than expected.

I would be cautious if you have mobility concerns, dislike boat rides, or are over 70. The activity is specifically marked as unsuitable for people over 70, and the return boat can be rough.

It is also not a good choice for anyone who wants to bring a picnic, personal drinks, or a pet. Makani is smoke-free and does not allow pets.

What to pack for a smoother day

The recommended items are practical:

• Comfortable shoes
• Beachwear
• A change of clothes
• Camera
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Biodegradable insect repellent

Comfortable shoes matter for the meeting point, boat transfer, and time around the club. A change of clothes is useful after pool time, especially if you plan to spend the return ride in dry clothes.

Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent as requested. Bring a camera if you want photos, but protect it during the boat ride. A small waterproof pouch can be useful, though the supplied information does not promise storage facilities.

Since Wi-Fi is included, you can stay connected, but I would charge your phone fully before leaving Cartagena. The schedule leaves little room for arranging an independent return if you miss the boat.

Booking flexibility and language support

Makani offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. It also allows you to reserve now and pay later, which helps if your Cartagena schedule is still changing.

The host or greeter can assist in English or Spanish. After booking, you are asked to contact Makani. Use that contact to confirm your chosen time slot, meeting instructions, upgrade details, and any celebration plans.

The emergency phone number provided is +57 318 335 6186. Keep it available on the day, particularly because your transport depends on the scheduled boat departures and returns.

The activity is valid for one day, with starting times based on availability. It ends back at the Bocagrande meeting point, not at a different drop-off location.

Is the Makani day pass good value?

At COP 272,000, the regular pass offers a reasonable structure for a half-day or full afternoon away from Cartagena. The strongest value comes from the included boat transfer and pool access. You are paying for convenience as much as for the club itself.

The value weakens if you expect an all-inclusive beach resort. Food and drinks cost extra, the welcome drink is nonalcoholic, and the sea may not be suitable for the swimming experience you have in mind.

The paid upgrades require more thought. Some cost as much as, or several times more than, the base pass. They may be worthwhile for a celebration or group booking, but I would not select one without confirming exactly what seating, privacy, food, and service it includes.

The high overall rating of 4.7 from 15 reviews fits the main strengths: attractive surroundings, good food and drinks available for purchase, a pleasant pool, and a relaxing change from city sightseeing. The most important cautions are also clear: this is mainly a pool day, the return boat can be bumpy, and children are part of the setting.

Should you book Makani Luxury Beach Club?

Book it if you want an easy island escape with round-trip transport, a pool, and a polished day-club setting. The 9 a.m. schedule gives you the most time, while the later departures work well if you want a slower morning in Cartagena.

Skip it if your priority is open-sea swimming, an adults-only atmosphere, or an all-inclusive package. Before paying for an upgrade, ask Makani to confirm its exact inclusions and total cost.

For most people, I would start with the standard Kai Zone pass. It gives you the core experience without committing to a costly private area. Add an upgrade only when the occasion, group size, or need for dedicated space clearly justifies it.

FAQ

Where is Makani Luxury Beach Club located?

Makani is located on Tierra Bomba Island near Cartagena de Indias, in Bolívar, Colombia.

How do I reach the beach club?

Maritime transportation from Bocagrande to Tierra Bomba and back is included. The meeting point is at the back of Bocagrande Hospital, where a person from the hotel waits for you.

What time does the boat leave Cartagena?

There are three listed departure times: 9 a.m., 10 a.m., and 11 a.m. The matching return times are 3 p.m., 4 p.m., and 5 p.m.

What does the standard day pass include?

It includes Kai Zone access, round-trip maritime transportation, pool access, one nonalcoholic welcome drink, and free Wi-Fi.

How much does the Makani day pass cost?

The listed price is COP 272,000 per person. Children ages 4 to 11 pay COP 189,000 per person.

Are food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included in the stated day pass. Outside food and beverages are not allowed, and the welcome drink is nonalcoholic.

Are the upgrades included in the day pass?

No. Each upgrade has an additional cost. Options include Mahalo Pool, Ohana Daybeds, Luau Lounge, Makai Viewpoint, and Maha Jacuzzi.

Can I cancel the booking?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The activity also offers reserve now and pay later booking.