Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa San Carlos: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity murky, average temperature +28.5°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa San Carlos: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa San Carlos: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa San Carlos: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 000 metres.
Playa San Carlos: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is December. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa San Carlos: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa San Carlos: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa San Carlos: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa San Carlos: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Playa San Carlos: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Playa San Carlos Restaurants. Cuisines available: Venezuelan. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa San Carlos: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Water, Cash, Camera.
Playa San Carlos: when is the best time to swim?
Best to swim in the dry season from December to April. Morning water is calmer with fewer people.
Playa San Carlos: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Keep the area clean. Do not leave litter. Follow lifeguard instructions.
Playa San Carlos: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa San Carlos: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children and anyone wanting to enjoy a beach on Lake Maracaibo with calm water, developed infrastructure and water sports opportunities. Suitable for day trips from Maracaibo. Not suitable for those seeking solitude and clear water.
Playa San Carlos: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is located on an island that becomes a peninsula at certain hours due to tides. It is home to the historic San Carlos de la Barra Castle, built over 4 centuries ago.
Playa San Carlos: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Beach over 1 km long, Calm water, suitable for children, Water sports: kayaking, sailing, Historic San Carlos Castle, Well-developed infrastructure: restaurants, bohío rental, Boat trips through mangrove lagoons, Free entry, Accessible by boat from Maracaibo. Cons: Remote location (141 km from Maracaibo), Murky water due to lake-sea mixing, Limited infrastructure, Can be crowded on weekends, Mosquitoes and sandflies in the mangroves.
Playa San Carlos: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: San Carlos de la Barra Castle, Zapara Island, Mangroves, Maracaibo. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa San Carlos: how do I get to the city of Maracaibo?
The beach is located near the city of Maracaibo. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Maracaibo.