Luxury on an island, one day only. Makani is a polished beach club on Tierra Bomba, reached by boat from Bocagrande, with clear time slots so you can plan your Cartagena day without guessing. I like how the day pass bundles the practical stuff—maritime transport, pool access, and Wi‑Fi—so you can focus on relaxing instead of logistics.

What I like most is the overall easy reset: a true pool-centered escape with great food and drinks, plus Kai Zone programming like yoga and fitness-style activities. The one thing to keep in mind is that this is more of a pool hangout than a classic “swim from the beach” spot, and the boat ride back can feel bumpy.

Key things to know before you go

• Boat transfer from Bocagrande included: You’re set up with maritime transport both ways, not just a ferry you have to manage.
• Kai Zone activities are part of the day: Expect programming that includes yoga, dance spot, fitness class, and tantra (confirm timing on arrival).
• Pool time is the main event: Plan your expectations around a lounge-by-the-pool day, not long shoreline swimming.
• Upgrades can seriously change the day: Mahalo Pool, Ohana Daybeds, Luau Lounge, Makai Viewpoint, and Maha Jacuzzi are all add-ons with set capacity limits.
• No outside food or drinks, and it’s smoke-free: Bring your vibe, not your cooler.

Makani Luxury Beach Club: what you’re really buying

This day pass is basically you paying for a smooth island day experience: transportation, entry, and access to the club’s main facilities. The big value is that you’re not just buying “a chair.” You’re buying a whole packaged environment—pool access, Kai Zone programming, a welcome drink without alcohol, and free Wi‑Fi—so your day has structure from the moment you meet the host.

Makani positions itself as luxury beach club time. That shows in the rules and the setup. It’s smoke-free. No pets are allowed. And they keep outside food and drinks out of the equation. That usually means less clutter, fewer “what did you bring?” surprises, and a more controlled atmosphere—good for a relaxing day, not so great if you were planning to bring snacks.

If you’re the type who likes a simple plan (boat there, enjoy, boat back), this fits. If you want a wild, spontaneous beach adventure where you wander freely and hop between spots all day, this is more curated by design.

Getting to the island from Bocagrande Hospital

Your day starts with a meet point that’s easy to recognize: a person from the hotel waits for you at the back of Bocagrande Hospital. That matters because Cartagena can be confusing when you’re trying to sync with boats and pickup points. Here, you’re guided to the correct starting area.

Makani runs three time slots for the day pass:

• 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
• 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
• 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

The good news is the time is straightforward. You’ll know how long you have on the island, and you can build the rest of your Cartagena day around that. The boat transfer is included both ways—Bocagrande to the island, and the island back to Bocagrande.

One practical note: a boat ride back can feel a little rough. If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s smart to come prepared, even if the day pass is sold as relaxing. You’re on open water for part of the day, and that’s part of the price you pay to reach an island beach club experience.

Kai Zone and the day pass vibe: pool-first, activity-ready

Makani’s day pass includes Kai Zone and the pool. That combination is the core of your experience. Kai Zone is where the club points you toward active programming—Makani lists yoga, a dance spot, a fitness class, and tantra among its highlights. You don’t need to be “a fitness person” to enjoy this, but it does mean the day has more energy than a quiet hotel pool lounge.

In practical terms, your hours will likely feel like this:

• You arrive and settle in.
• You move between pool time and whatever activity is happening.
• You recharge with food/drinks (or at least a break from the sun).
• You keep the day flowing until it’s time to head back on the boat.

The pool-centered setup is exactly why many people like this pass. It’s comfortable, easy, and low-effort. But don’t book it expecting a classic beach where you swim from the shore for hours. This is a place to lounge, enjoy the club vibe, and take breaks in the water rather than a “beach day” in the traditional Cartagena sense.

Also worth knowing: this is not positioned as an adult-only venue. You may have families around. If you’re traveling as a couple and you want pure quiet, you can still have a good day—but you should expect a mix of ages in the common areas.

What you get at the pool: welcome drink, Wi‑Fi, and shade time

Included with your day pass:

• Pool access
• Welcome drink without alcohol
• Free Wi‑Fi
• Kai Zone access
• Maritime transportation from Bocagrande to the island and back

That welcome drink detail sounds small, but it matters on day-of logistics. When you’re stepping off a boat and trying to slow down, that first drink helps you transition. It’s a small “okay, we’re here” moment.

Wi‑Fi is also useful. Even if you’re not checking emails all day, it helps for messaging, navigation later, and sharing photos while you still remember where you put your phone.

Bring an eye for shade and comfort. This kind of club works best when you alternate sun and rest. If you’re booking without an upgrade, you’ll want to arrive ready to claim your spot and settle in early within your time slot.

Food and drinks: why the day feels worth it

Food and drinks are a big reason people feel they get value from Makani. The highlights include BBQ and romantic dinner options, and the general setup includes a welcome drink (non-alcoholic) right away.

Here’s the realistic way to think about it: you’re paying for a whole service environment. That’s why “good food and drinks” shows up as a top theme. You’re not just paying entry; you’re paying for a day where you don’t need to leave the club to find your next meal or drink.

I also like that the rules make the experience feel self-contained. No outside food or beverages means the kitchen and bar are the focus. That usually keeps things consistent.

If you’re hoping for a specific dinner experience (like romantic dinner), keep your expectations flexible. The information lists it as a highlight, but it doesn’t say whether it’s automatically included in the basic day pass. If that matters to you, it’s worth asking on-site what’s available during your specific day and how it’s priced.

Upgrades: Mahalo Pool, Ohana daybeds, Luau lounge, and more

The basic day pass gives you Kai Zone and pool access. If you want a more elevated experience, upgrades are available, each with an additional cost and a stated maximum group size. This is where you can tailor the feel of the day—more lounge space, a more special spot, or a more private vibe.

Upgrades listed:

• Mahalo Pool: COP $280,000 per person (maximum 2 guests)
• Ohana Day Beds: COP $650,000 per person (maximum 4 guests)
• Luau Lounge: COP $550,000 per person (maximum 10 guests)
• Makai Viewpoint: COP $850,000 per person (maximum 12 guests)
• Maha Jacuzzi: COP $750,000 per person (maximum 8 guests)

Two smart ways to use these upgrades:

1) Pick based on your group size. The maximum guest limits matter, because a “per person” upgrade can become overpriced if your group doesn’t fit well.

2) Match the upgrade to your goal. If you want the most “we’re celebrating” feel, you might choose something like day beds or a lounge. If you want a splurge moment for comfort, the jacuzzi upgrade stands out as the obvious fit.

Important reality check: upgrades cost extra. So the best value comes when the upgrade is aligned with what you actually want from the day. If you’re happy with the standard pool and Kai Zone vibe, you can save your money and use it elsewhere in Cartagena.

Price and value: is $69 a fair deal?

The listed price is $69 per person, and there’s also pricing in Colombian pesos:

• COP $272,000 per person
• COP $189,000 per child (ages 4 to 11)

That’s not just “entry to a pool.” The price includes:

• maritime transportation (both directions)
• pool access
• Kai Zone access
• welcome drink (non-alcohol)
• free Wi‑Fi

When you price it like that, the value argument gets stronger. In a place like Cartagena, transportation and day access can add up fast—especially when you’re going off the mainland. Here, Makani bundles the operational parts that can otherwise cost time and money.

So yes, $69 can be a good deal if you want the packaged island-day feel. If you’re the type who’d rather explore and pay for things à la carte, then you might question it. But for a controlled day with minimal friction, it tends to make sense.

What to bring (so your day doesn’t get annoying)

Makani asks you to bring practical items. Don’t ignore this list—it’s for a reason.

Bring:

• comfortable shoes
• change of clothes
• camera
• biodegradable sunscreen
• beachwear
• biodegradable insect repellent

That biodegradable note matters in island environments. It’s also the kind of rule that helps keep the club running smoothly without complaints.

One more thing: if you care about pictures, bring your phone/camera protection. Boat days can be breezy and the sun is strong. Keep your gear simple and protected.

Emergency contact is listed as +57 318 335 6186. Save it in your phone if you like having a backup number.

Rules and limits that affect your comfort

These rules shape the day more than you might expect:

• No pets
• No outside food or beverages
• Alcohol and drugs are not allowed
• Alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are not allowed
• It’s a smoke-free space
• Not suitable for people over 70 years

If you’re traveling with a mobility limitation, this “not suitable for over 70 years” line is worth respecting. It doesn’t say why, but it clearly signals the day isn’t built for everyone. Likewise, if your group includes someone who depends on bringing their own food, you’ll need to plan around the no-outside-food rule.

Also consider your expectations about the beach itself. The club is designed around the pool and club programming. If swimming in open water is your priority, you may feel you wanted more shoreline access.

Is Makani best for you? Here’s who will love it

I think Makani is a strong match if you want:

• a relaxed island day with minimal planning
• a pool-focused break from Cartagena city time
• good food and drinks in a controlled, comfortable setting
• the option to add an upgrade if you’re celebrating

It’s less ideal if you:

• need serious beach swimming from shore
• hate the idea of sharing space with families
• want a completely quiet adult-only environment
• are relying on outside snacks or a portable picnic setup

If you’re traveling as a couple, this can be a great reset. If you’re celebrating a birthday or anniversary, Makani lists birthday/anniversary and romantic dinner as highlights, and upgrades can help you turn a nice day into a memorable one.

Should you book the Makani day pass?

Book it if you want a simple, packaged island escape from Cartagena with boat transport included, pool time, and solid food/drinks value. It’s especially worth it if you’re booking a day when you don’t want to hunt for logistics or fight for a good spot.

Skip or rethink it if you’re dreaming of a classic beach day with easy swimming right from the shoreline. Also reconsider if your group needs adult-only quiet or if anyone in your party falls into the over-70 restriction.

If you do book, choose your time slot based on how you plan to spend the rest of your day in Cartagena. The 9–3, 10–4, and 11–5 options make it easy to sync with other plans—just make sure you build in buffer for the boat ride and the “sun + rest” rhythm.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the Makani day pass?

You meet at the back of Bocagrande Hospital, where a person from the hotel will be waiting for guests.

How long is the day pass valid, and what time slots are offered?

The day pass is valid for 1 day. Three time slots are offered: 9:00 am–3:00 pm, 10:00 am–4:00 pm, and 11:00 am–5:00 pm.

What’s included with the basic day pass price?

Included: Kai Zone access, pool access, maritime transportation from Bocagrande to the island and back, a welcome drink without alcohol, and free Wi‑Fi.

Are upgrades included in the price?

No. Upgrades have additional costs, such as Mahalo Pool, Ohana Day Beds, Luau Lounge, Makai Viewpoint, and Maha Jacuzzi.

What can’t I bring?

You can’t bring pets, outside food or beverages, alcohol or drugs. The vehicle also doesn’t allow alcoholic drinks.

What should I bring to the beach club?

Bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, a camera, beachwear, biodegradable sunscreen, and biodegradable insect repellent.