Santa Marta, located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is a paradisiacal destination that offers an incredible variety of beaches for all tastes.
From white sands and crystal clear waters to more secluded and quiet beaches, this city has something for every type of traveler.
If you are planning a vacation and wondering which are the best beaches in Santa Marta to enjoy a day under the sun, this blog presents a complete guide of the places you can’t miss.
Index
- The Best Beaches of Santa Marta
- Rodadero Beach
- Playa Blanca
- Taganga Beach
- Playa Grande
- Cinto Beach
- Crystal Beach
- Cabo San Juan del Guía Beach
- Santa Marta Bay
- Los Cocos Beach
- Salguero Beach
- Cape Tortuga
- Pozos Colorados Beach
- Bello Horizonte Beach
- Airport Beach
- Concha Bay
- Bonito Gordo Beach
- Playa del Amor
- Gairaca Beach
- La Piscinita de Cañaveral
- Costeño Beach
- Mendihuaca
- Buritaca
Santa Marta is a true paradise for sun and sea lovers, offering a wide variety of beaches for all tastes.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded natural spot to relax, or a more lively beach with commercial options, Santa Marta has something for every type of traveler.
In this guide, we will take you to the best beaches in Santa Marta, highlighting what each has to offer.
Rodadero Beach
Playa del Rodadero is undoubtedly one of the most popular and crowded beaches in Santa Marta.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and calm waters, it is the perfect place for those looking to combine relaxation with fun.
This beach is especially ideal for families and groups of friends who want to enjoy a day full of water activities, such as jet skiing and banana boating.
In addition, the area is surrounded by restaurants, bars and stores, ensuring that you will never lack for anything during your visit.
Playa Blanca
Just a few minutes by boat from Rodadero, Playa Blanca offers a more serene environment, perfect to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature.
The white sand and turquoise waters of this beach are simply mesmerizing.
Playa Blanca is known for being an ideal place to relax, taste fresh seafood and explore the nearby coral reefs by snorkeling.
It is one of the best options for those looking for tranquility without getting too far from the city.
Taganga Beach
Taganga is a small fishing village that has evolved into a favorite destination among backpackers and travelers looking for an authentic and affordable experience.
Taganga beach combines local culture with stunning natural scenery.
In addition, Taganga is one of the best starting points for diving in Colombia, offering several diving schools with courses and excursions at affordable prices.
It is the perfect place for those who wish to immerse themselves in both the sea and the culture of the region.
Cinto Beach
If you are looking for a remote and practically virgin destination, Cinto Beach is the ideal option.
This beach is accessible only by boat or through a trail that crosses the rainforest from Neguanje.
Cinto Bay is a true hidden treasure, characterized by its tranquility and privacy, which makes it the perfect place to disconnect and connect with nature.
It is undoubtedly the best beach for those seeking a unique experience within the Tayrona Park.
Playa Grande
Playa Grande is a wonderful hidden destination on the other side of Taganga, so it is not very popular among national tourists.
This beach is known for its mountainous trails that offer an incredible view of the sea.
You can reach it on foot from Taganga in 15 to 25 minutes, or by boat in about 15 minutes.
In Playa Grande, you will find several restaurants with varied gastronomic options, ideal to enjoy the local cuisine.
Crystal Beach
Also known as Playa del Muerto, Playa Cristal lives up to its name thanks to its clear waters that allow you to see the fish swimming around you without the need for snorkeling equipment.
This beach is part of the Tayrona National Natural Park and is famous for its rich biodiversity.
Besides being an excellent place for snorkeling, Playa Cristal is perfect for those who want to relax on the sand and enjoy the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it.
Cabo San Juan del Guía Beach
Cabo San Juan is perhaps the most iconic image of Tayrona Park, known for its two turquoise blue seas, separated by a strip of golden sand that culminates in a small hill with a picturesque viewpoint.
This place is ideal not only for beach lovers, but also for hiking enthusiasts, as it can be accessed through a trail that offers spectacular views and the opportunity to spot the park’s rich fauna.
Santa Marta Bay
Located in the heart of the city, Santa Marta Bay is the city’s main beach, surrounded by the vibrant activity of the port and the historic center.
It is ideal for a sunset stroll, enjoying the views of the ships arriving at the port, and exploring the cultural and gastronomic offerings of the surrounding area.
Los Cocos Beach
Located south of the Bay of Santa Marta, Playa Los Cocos is known for its relaxed atmosphere and its proximity to the city center.
It is a perfect place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle without straying too far away.
The beach is popular with locals for water sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Salguero Beach
Playa Salguero is located south of El Rodadero and is known for being quieter and less crowded.
Its serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the sun in peace.
The waters here are calm, making it perfect for swimming.
In addition, the beach is surrounded by several residential complexes and hotels, making it easy to access services.
Cape Tortuga
Cabo Tortuga is a small and picturesque beach located southwest of Santa Marta.
This destination is known for its crystal clear waters and natural surroundings.
It is ideal for those looking for a quiet place to swim and enjoy the natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of the more touristy beaches.
Pozos Colorados Beach
Playa Pozos Colorados is a more exclusive destination, located near the Simón Bolívar airport.
This beach offers a quiet atmosphere and is characterized by its crystal clear waters and golden sands.
It is an excellent option for those looking for a less crowded beach with access to luxury services.
Bello Horizonte Beach
Playa Bello Horizonte is one of the longest beaches in Santa Marta, located west of Pozos Colorados.
With its wide strip of golden sand and serene waters, this beach is ideal for long walks by the sea and for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
The area is surrounded by luxury hotels and condominiums, offering an exclusive environment.
Airport Beach
Playa del Aeropuerto, as its name suggests, is located very close to the Santa Marta airport.
Although it is not a tourist beach par excellence, its proximity to the airport makes it a convenient option for those who want to enjoy a last dip before leaving.
Concha Bay
Concha Bay is one of the most beautiful and accessible beaches in Tayrona Park, without the need for long walks.
This beach is characterized by its calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
It is an ideal place for a picnic day surrounded by the exuberant nature of the park.
Bonito Gordo Beach
Playa Bonito Gordo is a little known beach located in the vicinity of the Taganga area. Access is not easy, which guarantees a more private and exclusive experience. It is an ideal place for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature in its purest form.
Playa del Amor
Playa del Amor is a small hidden beach near Taganga, accessible on foot or by boat. This beach is a perfect retreat for those seeking a more intimate and secluded experience. Its name says it all: it is the ideal place for couples who want to enjoy a romantic day at the beach.
Gairaca Beach
located within the Tayrona Park, is one of the quietest and least visited beaches in the region. This beach is perfect for those looking for a total escape in an unspoiled natural environment. It is an excellent place to swim and enjoy the serenity of the park.
La Piscinita de Cañaveral
La Piscinita de Cañaveral is a small natural pool located inside the Tayrona Park, near Cañaveral beach. It is a safe place to swim, surrounded by rocks and lush vegetation. This natural pool is perfect for families with small children or for those who prefer calmer waters.
Costeño Beach
Costeño Beach is a popular beach for surfers, located northeast of Santa Marta. Its youthful and relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite destination for backpackers and young travelers looking to combine sun, sea and adventure. Here, the waves are perfect for surfing, and the beach offers a vibrant, bohemian atmosphere.
Mendihuaca
Mendihuaca is a quiet beach located near the mouth of the Mendihuaca River. This destination offers a perfect blend of river and sea, ideal for those who wish to enjoy nature at its best. Mendihuaca is less visited than the more famous beaches, making it an ideal haven for relaxation.
Buritaca
Buritaca is a perfect destination for nature lovers, where the Buritaca River meets the Caribbean Sea. This beach is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities, such as tubing down the river, and for those looking for a unique experience in a stunning natural setting.
Santa Marta is a true paradise for beach lovers, with options ranging from bustling resorts to quiet secluded retreats. Each of these beaches offers something unique, ensuring that all visitors will find their perfect spot in the sun.
Santa Marta’s beaches offer a diversity to suit all tastes, from bustling resorts to quiet, secluded retreats. Each of these beaches has its own charm and character, ensuring that all visitors find their perfect spot in the sun. If you are looking for the ideal destination for your next vacation, Santa Marta and its beaches await you with open arms, promising an unforgettable experience in every corner of its coastline.
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