Water sports and fishing opportunities abound along the beaches, and the island has majestic mountain ranges with hiking and bike trails. The majority of the population of 420,000 people abide throughout the eastern section of Margarita Island near the primary cities of Porlamar and Pampatar. Duty-free shopping is an enticement for many visitors.
Visitors with an appreciation for history will enjoy touring the churches and architecture erected across a land visited by Columbus in 1498. Spanish conquistadors soon noted the prevalence of pearls throughout the area, leading to the establishment of a pearl-harvesting industry. Pirate attacks became commonplace, bringing on the need for forts, many of which are guest attractions today.
Bounded by mangrove trees and swamps, Lagoon la Restinga, the most famous of the five national parks on the island, features a bounty of wildlife including flamingos, dolphins, and vibrant species of colorful fish. Boat trips go throughout the lagoon and across its expanse to Macanao Peninsula, home to at least 100 species of birds, including hawks and pelicans.
