Top Beach Destinations in Colombia
Tayrona and Santa Marta
Close your eyes and picture paradise. Whether your mind drew up images of idyllic beaches, lush jungles, or majestic mountainscapes, the Tayrona and Santa Marta regions of Colombia boast them all. If your group is looking for a relaxing time on the beach, an adventurous hike through the infamous Tayrona National Park, some of the world’s best birdwatching, or simply enjoying the bountiful nature, this is the spot for you. The four indigenous tribes that are native to these areas refer to this land as the heart of the world. The cultural and spiritual significance of this area is rich and is waiting to be discovered.
Rosario Islands and San Bernardo
You would be amiss to spend time in Cartagena without paying a visit to the Caribbean islands just off the coast. Islas del Rosario and Islas del San Bernardo are two archipelagos not too far off the mainland. These little slices of heaven can be reached by speed boat, and with many islands to choose from, we will help you choose the perfect one for you based on the wants and needs specific to your group.
credit. Hotel 23
San Andrés and Providencia
Island hoppers rejoice for Colombia has no shortage of Caribbean islands with alluring sandy beaches. The archipelago of San Andrés and Providencia is actually much closer geographically to Nicaragua, but is in fact, part of Colombia. Scuba diving is a big draw as the unspoiled coral reefs have been known to put on quite a show. These islands are also some of the only places in Colombia where English is widly spoken since, unlike the rest of the country, they were conqured by English pirates. The island vibes here are real and will have you questioning your intentions to ever return to the mainland.
Image Credit. Rodrigo Bernal
Credit. Monasterio del Viento
Credit. Monasterio del Viento
Pacific Coast: Chocó
So you said you were looking for off-the-beaten-path? You’ve got it. If your group is looking for a chance to completely disconnect (don’t count on consistent wifi access or cell coverage here) then you will love Choco. It’s not exactly easy to get there, but is it ever worth it once you do. All of these supposed “down-sides” are what keep many people away, but we think that these are some of the best features of this remote coastal region. Plus, this is one of the only places in the country where visitors can observe humpback whales on their Pacific migration. Unlike the Caribbean coast with it’s characteristically calm waters, the Colombian Pacific is a roaring force of nature with a rough ocean terrain, dense rainforests and one-of-a-kind local culture.
