Costaguana Camping Park

On the road to Coveñas, Marine Museum Park (five minutes’ drive) illustrates the history of the Colombian Marine Infantry. As well as interactive exhibits such as a reconstruction of the 1823 Battle of Lake Maracaibo, a key episode in the struggle for the country’s independence, the museum displays military vehicles, weapons and uniforms. Lively Calle 12 in San Antero (10 minutes) is lined with grocery shops and stores selling beach gear – from inflatables and footballs, to flip flops. On the outskirts of town, the Museo del Calabazo houses a vast collection of items crafted out of gourds, including fruit bowls, hanging baskets and decorative objects in the shape of birds and other animals. If you’re into wildlife watching, take a canoe trip through the nature reserve of Ciénaga de la Caimanera (15 minutes). Its extensive areas of dense mangroves are home to native bird and fish species, plus crabs and raccoons.