Located off the northern coast of Venezuela, just a 30-minute plane ride from Caracas, Margarita Island is secluded yet accessible. Christopher Columbus called the island La Margarita, “the pearl” in Latin, because the ocean bed was glimmering with the white gem. Conquistadores settled the fertile island and fortified it against invading pirates. The many fortresses and castles are lingering reminders of this period of history.

Margarita Island now has a population of 420,000, but retains its glowing natural beauty. With white sand beaches and the translucent aqua waters of the Caribbean Sea, Margarita Island is paradise. Stroll along the palm-dotted beach and stop at a kiosk for a plate of fresh-caught fish.

Windsurfing, scuba diving, bird watching, and boat tours are popular daytime activities, while discos, bars, restaurants, and casinos entertain into the night. With pristine beaches and beautiful weather year-round, it is easy to see why Margarita Island is a favorite vacation spot for Venezuelans and foreigners alike.

Three Good Reasons to Study Spanish in Margarita Island Margarita Island has enchanting natural beauty, with gorgeous beaches, picture-perfect weather, and nearly unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation. Three times a week, the Margarita school offers excursions to sites in the local area, plus free salsa lessons in the afternoons! With the presence of indigenous groups including the Guaiquerí and the Warao Indians, Margarita Island is rich in culture and folklore.