Margarita Island (Isla de Margarita) is located in the Caribbean Sea, in the northeast of Venezuela, north of the Araya Peninsula. Together with the small Coche and Cubagua Islands, Isla de Margarita is the only island state in Venezuela - state of Nueva Esparta.

It is the largest island in Venezuela, with an area of ​​about 1071 square kilometers. Margarita Island is home to about half a million people. It consists of two mountain ranges connected by a narrow sand strip 18 kilometers long.

Margarita Island is often called the "gem of the Caribbean" for the amazing beaches and mountains covered with emerald greenery, and for the dry and sunny climate with hot temperatures of 24-37 °C. Therefore, it is one of the main resorts in Venezuela. Many wealthy Venezuelans have villas in the resorts of Margarita. In the recent past, it was in steady demand also among American and European tourists. However, the changeable socio-political situation in Venezuela has created conditions that have significantly reduced the flow of tourists to the island.

Nevertheless, Margarita Island is the most important tourist attraction in Venezuela. The beaches of the island are suitable for surfing, diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and other water and active sports. Several tourism development projects, including the creation of the cruise port of Puerto la Mar, the expansion of the Santiago Marinho International Caribbean airport, and the Punta Ballena Lighthouse, have been planned in recent years.

On the island, you can see several old Spanish fortifications (castles, forts, and fortresses), which are Venezuelan national heritage. You can also take a historical walk to local cities that have preserved an authentic look, immersing yourself in the past of the colonial settlements of the Caribbean region. Moreover, there are three reservations with a variety of bird species (pelicans, flamingos, parrots, and other birds) and two national parks.

Margarita Island is separated from the mainland by a 22-kilometer strait. One of the options for traveling to the island are ferries from the port of Puerto la Cruz (about 3 hours by sea).