REVIEW · ROSARIO ISLANDS & BARú BEACH DAYS
Cartagena: Makani Luxury Beach Club Day Pass
A day on Tierra Bomba starts with a short boat ride. Makani is a luxury beach club day pass that trades long sightseeing for real relaxation: a big pool area, included transport from Bocagrande, and a club schedule that can include yoga, fitness, dance spots, and even tantra. I especially like the pool-first setup and the way the day includes practical comforts like a welcome drink (no alcohol) and free Wi-Fi. One thing to consider, though, is that this is not a classic “walk into the sea and swim” beach scene, and the boat ride back can feel bumpy.
This works well if you want a smooth, low-effort half to full day away from the heat of Cartagena, without giving up comfort. I also like the option to stay basic or add upgrades like daybeds, a jacuzzi, or a special viewpoint, so you can match the experience to your group and budget. If you are sensitive to motion or you prefer quieter, adult-only vibes, plan ahead for the mix of ages and the ride.
In This Review
- Key things to know before you go
- Makani Luxury Beach Club: The vibe you are buying
- Price and what feels like good value
- Getting to Tierra Bomba from Bocagrande (and back again)
- Timings that actually help you plan your day
- Your day at Makani: What happens once you arrive
- Kai Zone and pool time: the core of the experience
- Classes, dance spot, and tantra: what that means for your mood
- Food and drinks: what you can plan for
- Upgrades: how to choose without overspending
- What to bring, and what the rules really mean
- Who Makani is best for
- A few practical tips so the day feels smooth
- Should you book this Makani Luxury Beach Club day pass?
- FAQ
- Where is the meeting point for the Makani day pass?
- What time slots are available for the day pass?
- What is included with the basic day pass?
- Is alcohol included in the day pass?
- Can I bring a pet?
- Can I bring outside food or beverages?
- What upgrades are available, and are there limits?
- What should I bring for the day?
- Is the space smoke-free?
- Is this day pass suitable for people over 70?
Key things to know before you go

- Pool-first luxury with a plan built around lounging, not sea swimming
- Included maritime transport from the Bocagrande hospital area, plus a return back the same place
- Club programming may include yoga, dance spot, fitness class, and tantra
- Special-occasion options like romantic dinners, birthdays, anniversaries, and BBQ setups
- Upgrade choices (Mahalo Pool, Ohana daybeds, Luau Lounge, Makai viewpoint, Maha jacuzzi) with maximum group sizes
- Bring reef-safe habits: biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended
Other boats out to the Rosario reefs and the Baru sand
- Cartagena: Rosario Islands Catamaran with Lunch and Snorkel★ 4.5 · 2,479 reviews
- Full-Day Rosario Islands Including Barú, Bocachica & Playa Blanca★ 4.0 · 1,729 reviews
- Bora Bora Cartagena Beach Club Full Day Experience★ 4.0 · 606 reviews
- Excursion to the Rosario Islands with Lunch and Snorkeling★ 4.5 · 569 reviews
Makani Luxury Beach Club: The vibe you are buying

Makani’s day pass is sold as a luxury beach club day on Tierra Bomba Island, just a few minutes from Cartagena de Indias. In plain terms, you are paying for a well-managed day: transport, access to the club zones, a pool that does most of the work, and enough structure to make it feel like a real outing instead of “show up and hope.”
You get a Kai Zone plus pool access, and you are not stuck figuring out logistics on your own. The club also runs programming tied to relaxation and movement, including yoga, fitness classes, and dance spot energy, with tantra listed among the highlight offerings. That means your time can be as active or as slow as you want, as long as you are comfortable going with the club’s rhythm.
The other big “value” piece is choice. If you want a simple day, you can keep it basic. If you want more space, comfort, or a better seat, the upgrades let you spend extra for a specific style of lounging.
Price and what feels like good value

The day pass is listed at $69 per person (also shown as COP 272,000 per person). There is a child price of COP 189,000 for ages 4 to 11. What makes this feel reasonable is what is included: the maritime transportation from Bocagrande to the island and back, pool access, a welcome non-alcohol drink, and free Wi-Fi.
In other words, you are paying for a packaged beach-club day rather than just paying for a spot to sit. A lot of Cartagena day trips start with a taxi hunt and end with you waiting around. This one starts with pickup-style coordination at a clear meeting point and gives you access to the club for a set block of time.
When to be cautious is when you know you want multiple upgrades. Options like daybeds or a jacuzzi have additional costs, and those extras can turn this from a good value into a pricey indulgence. Still, if you pick one upgrade that matches your vibe, it can be a smart way to tailor the day without going fully “VIP everything.”
Getting to Tierra Bomba from Bocagrande (and back again)

The meeting point is straightforward: a person will be waiting for you at the back of Bocagrande Hospital. That’s your handoff moment, and the experience ends back at the same meeting point.
You also get maritime transportation included, meaning you do not need to arrange a boat or negotiate anything last minute. The schedule is built around three time blocks, and that matters because it shapes your whole day.
Choose a time slot and you are basically choosing how late you come back:
- 9:00 am to Makani, return at 4:00 pm
- 10:00 am to Makani, return at 5:00 pm
- 11:00 am to Makani, return at 6:00 pm
If you like mornings, go early. If you prefer a slower start and you do not want to rush in Cartagena, the 10 am slot is often the easiest fit. The 11 am option is best if you plan something light in the city and want your beach-club time to be more afternoon-coded.
One practical note from real-world experience: the boat ride back can feel bumpy, so if you are prone to motion sickness, pack a plan. I would also wear comfortable shoes, because you will be moving around when you board, disembark, and find your zone.
Timings that actually help you plan your day

Makani’s day pass is valid for one day, and the club offers three time slots. Once you book, you are asked to contact the team to coordinate. I treat that as a normal step, not a big hassle, but it does mean you should not ignore messages after booking.
Here is the bigger takeaway: with a set 9 am to 3 pm, 10 am to 4 pm, or 11 am to 5 pm window (time ranges are shown as the day pass blocks), you can plan Cartagena meals around it. If you want to grab lunch in Cartagena before you go, the later slot helps. If you want your lunch to happen at the club, the earlier slot gives you more time to settle in.
Also, because the day includes pool time as the core activity, you will want to think about sun timing. Cartagena area sun can be intense, so factor in time to use your biodegradable sunscreen and shade breaks during the hottest hours.
The unhurried end of Cartagena
Your day at Makani: What happens once you arrive

Once you reach Makani, you get access to the included zones, including Kai Zone and pool areas. The welcome drink is included, and it is specifically listed as without alcohol. That’s a small detail, but it matters if you are planning your day around staying light, driving later, or just pacing yourself.
Your day at Makani is not presented as a strict, hour-by-hour tour. Instead, it is structured around access. You show up, settle into your spot, and then use the club’s programming as optional add-ons.
That design is valuable because it lets you do what you came for:
- Lounge and cool off in the pool zone
- Check out classes if they are running during your time block
- Hang out in the social areas, including the dance spot concept
- Use the included Wi-Fi when you want to update home, plan dinner, or upload photos
And yes, the club also offers special-occasion setups as part of the highlight list. If you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or you want a romantic dinner experience, the venue is set up to handle that kind of moment.
Kai Zone and pool time: the core of the experience

If your idea of a beach-club day is mostly about shade, lounging, and dips in a pool, Makani hits that goal. The pool is repeatedly described as a strong point, with reviews calling out a good pool, drinks, and food.
One reality check from feedback: this is essentially a pool hangout, not a classic sea-swim beach. The listing concept may include the word beach club, but you should plan your expectations around pool time. If you want to spend most of the day swimming in the ocean, you might end up wishing for a more swim-friendly coastline.
So the best approach is simple. Treat Makani like a pool day with island scenery. You will likely enjoy the comfort more if you are not expecting long sea swims.
Classes, dance spot, and tantra: what that means for your mood

Makani’s highlight list includes yoga, dance spot, fitness class, and tantra. That tells me two things about the club experience.
First, it is not just a pool and chairs. There is a program of movement and themed wellness. If you like getting your body moving a bit, this can add energy to your day without turning it into an exhausting schedule.
Second, it gives you flexibility. If a yoga or fitness class fits your style, join in. If you are there to fully switch off, you can skip the organized parts and stay in relaxation mode.
Just remember: tantra is listed as a highlight offering, but the pass you book is not described as a guaranteed private session. If you have a very specific question about which sessions run during your time block, I would confirm before you go so you know what to expect.
Food and drinks: what you can plan for

Makani is described in strong terms for food and drinks, with reviews praising both and calling it good value. The only guaranteed drink item you get in the day pass is the included welcome drink, and it is explicitly without alcohol.
After that, the club environment is set up for hanging out and spending time at the bar or food areas. What I recommend is budgeting a little extra if you want cocktails, full meals, or snack rounds, since the day pass description only guarantees the welcome drink, not every meal.
The romantic dinner and BBQ mentioned in the highlight list also suggest that the club knows how to do events. If you are there for a celebration, you might find it easier to make the day feel special without having to coordinate everything yourself.
Upgrades: how to choose without overspending

The basic day pass gives you Kai Zone and pool access. Upgrades are where you customize comfort, privacy, and the kind of lounge experience you want. Each upgrade has an additional cost and a maximum number of people allowed.
Here are the upgrades, with the extra pricing and limits shown:
- Mahalo Pool: COP 280,000 per person, maximum 2 people
- Ohana Daybeds: COP 650,000 per person, maximum 4 people
- Luau Lounge: COP 550,000 per person, maximum 10 people
- Makai Viewpoint: COP 850,000 per person, maximum 12 people
- Maha Jacuzzi: COP 750,000 per person, maximum 8 people
My practical advice: pick one upgrade that matches your group style.
- If you are a couple and want the day to feel calmer, Mahalo Pool can fit that vibe.
- If you want a proper loungy day with more space, Ohana Daybeds may be the better bet.
- If your group is bigger and you want a shared hangout setup, Luau Lounge or Makai Viewpoint can make sense because the max group sizes are higher.
- If you love comfort and warm-water relaxation, Maha Jacuzzi is the obvious splurge.
The “do not overspend” trick is to decide what you will use. If you plan to leave your seat and wander all day, a premium spot might not pay off. If you will stay put, a paid upgrade can be worth it.
What to bring, and what the rules really mean
Pack smart and you will enjoy the day more. The club recommends:
- Comfortable shoes
- Change of clothes
- Camera
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Beachwear
- Biodegradable insect repellent
Those last two are not just “nice to have.” Island sun and bugs can be real. The biodegradable note is also important because the experience is set up with a specific eco-friendly expectation.
Now the rules. The pass is smoke-free, pets are not allowed, and you cannot bring outside food or beverages. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed either. Also, alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are prohibited.
If you are traveling with kids, this can still work, since there is a child price, but do keep in mind that one review mentioned a mixed age crowd and a wish for adult-only time. That does not mean it is party chaos. It just means your “quiet, adult-only retreat” expectation should be realistic.
Who Makani is best for
Makani is a great fit if you want:
- A comfortable day away from city walking
- Pool time as the main event
- Simple, packaged transport from Bocagrande
- The option to add upgrades for more comfort and space
It is less ideal if:
- You are expecting heavy sea swimming
- You get carsick or motion-sensitive and hate bumpy rides
- You want strictly adult time with zero kids around
There is also a clear note that it is not suitable for people over 70 years. If that includes someone in your group, you should choose a different type of activity.
A few practical tips so the day feels smooth
Here is how I would set you up for an easy win.
First, think pool time. Bring what you need to stay comfortable for a few hours in the sun and water. Sunscreen and repellent matter.
Second, plan for the boat ride. If you are the type who gets queasy easily, consider a motion sickness remedy in advance. Comfortable shoes also help because boarding and disembarking is not always a slow, gentle process.
Third, if you are considering an upgrade, decide early. An upgrade is easiest to justify when you know you will actually use the upgraded comfort.
Finally, keep your expectations aligned with what you get. Makani is not a full-day tour with multiple stops. It is a beach club day pass built around access, lounging, and a structured vibe.
Should you book this Makani Luxury Beach Club day pass?
I think you should book Makani if your goal is a relaxation-forward beach club day with included transport, a solid pool, and the option to level up your comfort. The price feels fair for what you get, especially when you factor in round-trip maritime transportation from the Bocagrande hospital area and the included non-alcohol welcome drink plus Wi-Fi.
I would not book it if sea swimming is your top priority, or if you need an adult-only environment. Also, if the bumpy boat ride would ruin the experience for you, look for another kind of Cartagena outing.
If you want a one-day reset from Cartagena, Makani is a strong choice. Pick your time slot based on your pace, bring the eco-friendly sunscreen and repellent, and consider one upgrade only if you know it will matter for how you spend your day.
FAQ
Where is the meeting point for the Makani day pass?
You meet at the back of Bocagrande Hospital. A person will be waiting there, and the activity ends back at the same meeting point.
What time slots are available for the day pass?
There are three time slots: 9 am to 3 pm, 10 am to 4 pm, and 11 am to 5 pm.
What is included with the basic day pass?
The basic day pass includes Kai Zone, pool access, maritime transportation from Bocagrande to the island and back, a welcome drink without alcohol, and free Wi-Fi.
Is alcohol included in the day pass?
The included welcome drink is without alcohol. Also, alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are prohibited.
Can I bring a pet?
No. Pets are not allowed.
Can I bring outside food or beverages?
No. Outside food and beverages are not allowed.
What upgrades are available, and are there limits?
Upgrades include Mahalo Pool, Ohana Daybeds, Luau Lounge, Makai Viewpoint, and Maha Jacuzzi. Each upgrade has an extra cost and a maximum number of people allowed, based on the upgrade type.
What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, and biodegradable insect repellent.
Is the space smoke-free?
Yes. The space is listed as smoke-free.
Is this day pass suitable for people over 70?
No. It is noted as not suitable for people over 70 years.
The Rest of Our Cartagena Reviews
The Unhurried Side of Cartagena
Rosario and Baru: Keep Looking
Just added to our Cartagena shelf
- White Night Boat Party: Dinner Buffet, Dancing and Open Bar
★ 4.6 · 3 reviews - The best sunset tour in the bay: Open bar party & fun
★ 5.0 · 3 reviews - Tayrona Park adventure in Santa Marta: Cabo San Juan from Cartagena
★ 3.8 · 3 reviews - Cartagena: Rosario Islands Private Boat Tour
★ 4.8 · 3 reviews - Mud Volcano Tour in Cartagena with Lunch
★ 3.4 · 3 reviews
Rosario Islands & Barú Beach Days, compared.
★ 4.5Cartagena: Rosario Islands Catamaran with Lunch and SnorkelFrom $1072,479 reviews
★ 4.0Full-Day Rosario Islands Including Barú, Bocachica & Playa BlancaFrom $881,729 reviews
★ 4.5Excursion to the Rosario Islands with Lunch and SnorkelingFrom $106569 reviews
★ 4.1Cartagena: Rosario Islands Day Tour with Snorkel & LunchFrom $95402 reviews
★ 4.0Baru and Playa Blanca Full DayFrom $39371 reviews
★ 4.5Full Day Tour of Five Premium Islands in CartagenaFrom $110337 reviews
★ 4.55-Island Speedboat Tour in Cartagena and the Rosario IslandsFrom $85258 reviews
★ 4.5Full Day 5 Best Rosario Islands Spots Make Friends & do SnorkelFrom $79240 reviews
Where else this tour turns up













