Isla Margarita

Margarita is the largest of the Venezuelan islands, formed of two hilly masses joined by a low isthmus of mangrove and salt flat, and it has been the main domestic holiday destination for decades. The pearl beds that gave it its name were fished out centuries ago; the trade now is beaches, duty-free shopping and windsurfing. La Asunción, the old capital inland, keeps a colonial core and the Santa Rosa fort, and Juan Griego is known for its sunsets.

What's there

• The beaches - a long list from calm bays to surf beaches around the two lobes.
• La Asuncion - the colonial inland capital with its cathedral and fort.
• The Santa Rosa fort - the seventeenth-century fortification above the old capital.
• The duty-free shopping - the trade that draws most domestic visitors to Porlamar.

When to go

December to April is the dry season and the peak. Trade winds blow strongest between December and June, which suits windsurfing. Holiday periods are extremely busy.

Things to know

Porlamar is built up and commercial rather than scenic. Beaches vary enormously in quality and some are crowded and littered. The duty-free trade is the island's main business and shopping pressure is heavy.

Nearby

La Restinga is on the isthmus, and Coche Island is south.

Key facts