Santa Marta, Colombia, is a coastal city with a rep for offering a little bit of everything: bustling city beaches, secluded nature preserves, and everything in between. You’ll find budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and people who want to immerse themselves in the local culture.
With so many different vibes to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
This guide explores the best beaches in Santa Marta and the surrounding areas. We considered how easy they are to get to, what kinds of activities are available, and overall ambiance to help you choose the perfect beach for your trip.
Urban Beaches: Convenience and Vibrancy
Santa Marta boasts several beaches right in or near the city, offering easy access and a lively atmosphere. If you want to stay close to the action, consider these options.
El Rodadero: Family Fun and Vallenato Rhythms
Just a quick 10-minute ride from Santa Marta’s historic center, El Rodadero is a popular urban beach known for its family-friendly vibe and modern conveniences. You’ll often hear the infectious rhythms of Vallenato music filling the air. The beach is generally well-kept, though it can be pretty quiet on weekdays.
A word to the wise: swimming at night is now against the rules, reportedly because of excessive public displays of affection.
Taganga: Backpacker’s Haven and Nightlife
A 15-minute drive from downtown Santa Marta will land you in Taganga, a budget-friendly haven popular with backpackers. While the beach itself is decent, the real draw here is the lively nightlife and party atmosphere.
Playa Los Cocos: A Relaxing Escape Within the City
If you’re looking for a quieter experience within the city limits, Playa Los Cocos might be just the ticket. While it’s not the most visually stunning beach, it offers a relaxing swimming experience with fewer vendors and smaller crowds.
Tayrona National Park: Pristine Beaches and Natural Beauty
If you’re looking for that postcard-perfect Caribbean beach experience, you have to check out Tayrona National Park. The park is a protected area, so the beaches are stunningly pristine, with the kind of natural beauty that just takes your breath away.
Accessibility and Considerations for Tayrona Beaches
Keep in mind that there’s an entrance fee to get into Tayrona National Park. If you’re on a budget, taxis or buses are a good way to get there. As of my last update, the tourist entrance fee to Parque Tayrona was around 38,000 pesos, while the fee for Colombian citizens was about 14,500 pesos. Be sure to check the most current rates before you go, as these can change.
A couple of important tips: Before you head out to swim, check the tide conditions. Also, pack your own food and water, because amenities inside the park can be pretty limited.
Cabo San Juan: Iconic Scenery and Snorkeling
Cabo San Juan is probably the most iconic beach in Tayrona. It’s visually stunning, with great snorkeling spots. The hike to get there takes a couple of hours, so be prepared for a bit of a trek.
Playa Cristal: Snorkeling Paradise
Playa Cristal is another incredible beach near Parque Tayrona, and it’s known as a snorkeling paradise. If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip, this is a great option. Several tour operators, like Magic Tours, offer convenient trips to Playa Cristal, and the price runs around 90,000 pesos.
La Piscina: Swimming and Snorkeling Haven
La Piscina, which is also inside Parque Tayrona, is a favorite for swimming and snorkeling. The calm waters make it a perfect spot for families.
Playa Blanca del Parque Tayrona: Secluded Sands
Finally, there’s Playa Blanca del Parque Tayrona. As the name suggests, this beach has white sands and clear waters, and it’s tucked away within the park’s boundaries. If you’re craving a bit of seclusion, this is the place to go.
Beyond Tayrona: Exploring Coastal Gems
While Tayrona National Park has some absolutely stunning beaches, you might want to explore other coastal areas near Santa Marta. Here are a few ideas:
Playa Blanca (near Rodadero): A Quick Escape
Playa Blanca is a short boat ride away from Rodadero. It’s easily accessible, but some travelers feel it’s not dramatically different from Rodadero itself.
The boat trip will cost you somewhere in the neighborhood of $15 to $20 U.S.
Costeño Beach: Surfer’s Paradise and Relaxation
Costeño Beach is a traveler’s mecca that’s home to hostels, campsites, and eco-lodges. It’s a great place to try surfing or take a yoga class.
Other Distant Options: Palomino and Beyond
Palomino offers a more relaxed vibe, along with the chance to go river tubing.
If you’re willing to travel a bit farther afield, consider exploring Riohacha and La Guajira for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
Planning Your Beach Getaway: Practical Tips and Considerations
Getting to Santa Marta’s beaches is part of the adventure! Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Transportation
- Private Boat: A private boat trip can cost between 2,000,000 and 3,000,000 pesos (USD 1,000-1,500) for up to 20 passengers.
- Bus/Taxi to Parque Tayrona: Taking a taxi to the entrance of Parque Tayrona will cost around 80,000 pesos. Buses are much cheaper, at around 10,000 pesos per person.
- Guided Tours: Companies like Magic Tours offer guided tours. A group tour (4 people) will cost around 200,000 pesos per person. A trip to Bahia Concha with Magic Tours costs approximately 50,000 pesos.
Budget
Santa Marta offers options for every budget, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront hotels.
Safety and Preparedness
Don’t forget sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses), and stay hydrated. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when swimming.
Accommodation
Consider staying in El Rodadero for easy access to the beach and a lively atmosphere. For a more secluded experience, look into accommodations closer to Parque Tayrona. Hostels are abundant in Santa Marta if you’re looking to save money.
Putting It All Together
From bustling city beaches to secluded, natural paradises, Santa Marta has a beach for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a lively scene with plenty of amenities or a tranquil escape surrounded by nature, you’ll find it here.
We’ve highlighted some of the best beaches Santa Marta has to offer, but there are many more waiting to be discovered. So, we encourage you to explore the various options and tailor your beach experience to your interests and budget.
With its stunning coastline, vibrant culture, and array of activities, Santa Marta is a premier beach destination in Colombia that promises an unforgettable vacation. So pack your swimsuit, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the best of the Colombian Caribbean!