Isla de Coche (Coche Island) lies in the Venezuelan Caribbean, just south of Margarita Island, in the channel between Margarita and the Araya peninsula on the mainland. It is one of the three islands of Nueva Esparta state, together with Margarita and Cubagua, and you reach it by sea on a short trip from Margarita.
It is a small, quiet, sun-drenched island where time seems to slow down, and its calm water and light sand make its beaches some of the prettiest in the state. If you want a different kind of day during your trip to Margarita, or a few days of real calm, Coche is the answer.
Where is Isla de Coche?
Coche is in eastern Venezuela, in Nueva Esparta state. On a map, you'll find it south of Margarita, between Margarita and the coast of Sucre state. On clear days you can see it on the horizon from the beaches of southern Margarita, such as El Yaque.
- State: Nueva Esparta, Venezuela.
- Municipality: Villalba, which covers the whole island.
- Main town: San Pedro de Coche.
- Size: about 55 km² (21 sq mi), roughly 11 km long and 6 km across at its widest.
What Coche is like
Coche is much smaller and far quieter than Margarita, with dry landscapes, fishing villages and still water that invites you to spend hours by the shore. Its main town, San Pedro de Coche, is small and welcoming. But the real star of the island is the sea.
How to get to Coche from Margarita
By boat. The most common way to go for the day. Passenger boats leave from El Yaque and from the La Isleta boat terminal, in southern Margarita. There are also organized full-day trips by boat or catamaran that include the transfer and sometimes lunch.
By ferry. A ferry runs from Punta de Piedras to San Pedro de Coche and can carry vehicles, but service is intermittent, so check that it's running before you plan around it.
By small plane. The island has a small airport for light aircraft, although most visitors arrive by sea.
Schedules change with the season, so confirm times before you go, especially for the return. If you're going for the day, leave early to make the most of the sunshine and the calmer morning sea.
Things to do in Coche
Enjoy the beaches. Coche's clear, calm water is perfect for swimming, floating without a care and spending the day with family. Playa El Coco, Playa La Punta and Playa El Amor are among the best known.
Kitesurfing and windsurfing. The steady wind makes Coche a favorite spot for both sports. Some visitors come just for that.
Switch off. Coche is for reading under a beach umbrella, walking along the shore and watching the sunset with no rush. Often, the best plan here is no plan at all.
Stay a few days. The island has beachfront hotels, some of them all-inclusive, for those who want the calm to last longer than a day.
Tips for visiting Coche
- Confirm schedules for boats and the ferry, especially the return trip.
- Bring cash. On a small island, not every place offers as many payment options. US dollars in cash are widely used.
- Protect yourself from the sun. There is little natural shade: sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water.
- Book in high season if you plan to stay overnight.
Planning the rest of your trip? Read our guide to things to do in Margarita Island.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Isla de Coche?
In the Venezuelan Caribbean, just south of Margarita Island, between Margarita and the Araya peninsula on the mainland. It belongs to Nueva Esparta state, together with Margarita and Cubagua.
How do I get to Isla de Coche from Margarita?
By sea. Passenger boats leave from El Yaque and the La Isleta terminal, there are full-day boat and catamaran trips, and a ferry from Punta de Piedras carries vehicles, although its service is intermittent. Confirm schedules before you go, especially the return.
What is there to do in Isla de Coche?
Enjoy its calm beaches, like Playa El Coco, Playa La Punta and Playa El Amor, go kitesurfing or windsurfing, and relax far from the bustle of Margarita.
Can I visit Coche as a day trip?
Yes, it is one of the favorite outings for visitors to Margarita. Leave early to enjoy the sun and the calmer morning sea.
Are there hotels in Isla de Coche?
Yes. There are beachfront hotels, some of them all-inclusive, for those who want to stay more than a day.
