Where the New World began. Columbus's storied landfall now blends world class wall diving, all inclusive luxury at Club Med, and pristine reefs only minutes from shore.
Current conditions and forecast for planning your trip. Updated every 15 minutes.
San Salvador is a small, remote island on the eastern edge of The Bahamas, widely recognized as the first landing site of Christopher Columbus in 1492. Beyond its historical distinction, San Salvador is renowned among divers for the extraordinary walls that drop off just yards from the beach.
San Salvador Airport (ICAO: MYSM) offers an 8,000 foot paved runway, long enough for most midsize and super midsize jets. The airport sits on the western side of the island near Cockburn Town.
From Fort Lauderdale plan on roughly 1 hour 30 minutes of flight time. The airport provides straightforward customs clearance and quick onward transfer to Club Med or local guesthouses.
San Salvador pairs deep rooted Columbus era history with some of the most spectacular reef and wall diving in the entire Caribbean.
Several monuments across San Salvador commemorate the 1492 Columbus landing. The Columbus Monument at Long Bay and the Cross Monument mark spots that anchor much of the island's historical narrative.
The wall at San Salvador drops from 40 feet to several thousand feet almost vertically and sits within a short boat ride of shore. Divers encounter reef sharks, eagle rays, and pelagic life amid healthy coral.
Club Med Columbus Isle is the largest resort on the island, delivering all inclusive beachfront accommodations, a spa, multiple restaurants, and direct access to the island's legendary dive sites.
Club Med Columbus Isle anchors tourism on the island with beachfront rooms, pools, restaurants, and water sports. It is the primary choice for travelers seeking polished all inclusive accommodations.
Smaller properties such as Riding Rock Resort cater to divers and anglers looking for a more intimate, locally run experience close to Cockburn Town.
Vanbert Aviation flies midsize and super midsize jets directly into San Salvador (MYSM). The Challenger 350, Hawker 900XP, Citation Sovereign, and Phenom 300 are strong matches for the 8,000 foot runway.
Flight time from Fort Lauderdale is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Customs clears at MYSM on arrival. Vanbert's concierge arranges Club Med transfers and rental vehicles in advance.
Because San Salvador sits far east of the main Bahamian chain, private charter is the quickest and most comfortable way to avoid long layovers in Nassau.
Get a personalized charter quote for your San Salvador trip in minutes. Our concierge team is standing by 24/7.