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Ultimate Colombia Coast Travel Guide: Cartagena, Santa Marta & San Andres
CT Dool
March 07, 2025 • Read Time: 10 minutes
Welcome back to our Colombia travel series. After tackling the big cities and the coffee region, we now dive into…
Colombia's Caribbean coast.
As a dream destination… offering historic cities, stunning beaches, and tropical islands.
I’ve spent extended time living in Colombia and thus have insights the average visitor or big-box website will not have.
Whether you're exploring Cartagena's colonial streets, Santa Marta and Tayrona’s coastal beauty, or the remote paradise of San Andres, this guide covers it all.
Table of Contents
Cartagena: Walled City, Islands & Luxury Stays
Is Cartagena Safe?
Many people ask: is it safe to travel to Cartagena?
Yes. But with proper precautions given the crime rate.
There have been incidents of armed robbery and dating-related drugging here.
Read our guides on Staying Safe in LatAm, and if you’re a single male, read about Scopolamine in Colombia.
In general, avoid walking alone at night or showing signs of wealth at any time of day or area.
Best Time to Visit Cartagena
The best time to visit Cartagena is during the dry season, from December to April, when you’ll experience warm temperatures and little rain.
May to November sees higher humidity and occasional downpours, but fewer crowds and lower prices.
I was on the coast in September, and contrary to forecasts, it was sunny nearly the entire time (except for the abrupt storm that required evacuating the entire beach… story for a different post).
Where to Stay: Best Hotels & Hostels in Cartagena
Luxury Hotels in Cartagena
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara – A restored convent with world-class luxury.
Casa San Agustin – Boutique charm with private plunge pools.
Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa – Rooftop pool, colonial elegance.
Best Hotels in Cartagena Walled City
Movich Cartagena de Indias – Stunning rooftop views.
Bastión Luxury Hotel – Elegant rooms, close to everything.
Best Hostels in Cartagena
Viajero Cartagena – Social atmosphere, rooftop bar.
Selina Cartagena – Great for digital nomads, beachfront.
Casa en el Agua – A floating hostel in the Rosario Islands.
The Rosario Islands: Cartagena’s Tropical Escape
The Rosario Islands, located an hour from Cartagena, offer crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches. The best way to visit is via a day trip or staying overnight at:
IslaBela Boutique Hotel – Secluded paradise.
Hotel San Pedro de Majagua – A luxury island retreat.
Santa Marta: Gateway to Tayrona & Stunning Beaches
Best Time to Visit Santa Marta
The best time to visit Santa Marta is from December to March, with clear skies and cooler temperatures. The rainy season (April to November) brings lush greenery but occasional storms.
Where to Stay in Santa Marta
Generally, you’ll want to stay in Rodadero instead of downtown Santa Marta (trust me).
We’ll get into specific places to stay below.
Best Beaches in Santa Marta Colombia
The way it works in Santa Marta: the beaches accessible in the city are alright…
But the good stuff requires short boat rides.
On the boat to Playa Blanca in Santa Marta
I ain’t talking big boats with long waits to board. I’m talking a few guys with a small fishing boat to quickly get you from A to B.
Playa Blanca – A must… quick boat ride from Santa Marta, perfect place to go spend the day.
Playa Grande – Excellent beach a short boat ride away.
Playa El Rodadero – Solid beach. Not the area’s best, but a good option to walk to for sunsets if you’re staying in Rodadero.
Bahía Concha – Further out, but a quieter and more accessible than other beaches.
Tayrona National Park: A Coastal Gem
Tayrona National Park is home to some of Colombia’s most famous beaches. The best spots include:
Cabo San Juan – The most iconic Tayrona beach with hammock stays.
Playa Cristal – Stunning turquoise waters inside Tayrona National Park.
La Piscina – Calm waters, ideal for swimming.
Arrecifes – Beautiful but dangerous for swimming.
Best Hostels in Santa Marta
The Dreamer Hostel – Best for backpackers.
Masaya Santa Marta – Stylish, with a rooftop pool.
Calle 11 Hostel – Social and modern.
San Andres: A Caribbean Island Paradise
Best Time to Visit San Andres
The best time to visit San Andres Island is from December to May, when conditions are perfect for beachgoers and divers. Hurricane season (June to November) can bring unpredictable weather.
How to Get to San Andres, Colombia
San Andres is an island that isn’t really that close to Colombia. It’s like a Hawaii-US type of deal… requiring a flight from continental Colombia.
Flights depart from Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena.
Best Hotels in San Andres
San Andres Colombia Hotels (All-Inclusive)
Decameron Isleño – One of the best all-inclusive resorts.
Hotel Casablanca – Beachfront, excellent dining options.
Sol Caribe San Andres – Great for families and groups.
San Andres Island Hotels
Aquamare Hotel – Modern luxury.
Sea Colors Hotel – Budget-friendly, near downtown.
Casa Harb Hotel – A boutique hideaway.
Best Beaches in Colombia
Colombia boasts some of South America’s most stunning beaches. Here are my top picks:
Playa Cristal (Santa Marta) – Ideal for snorkeling and crystal-clear waters.
Playa Blanca (Santa Marta) – Stunning jungle beach.
Cabo San Juan (Tayrona) – Famous for its palm-fringed coastline.
Johnny Cay (San Andres) – A small island with incredible turquoise water.
Rosario Islands (Cartagena) – Secluded white-sand beaches.
Palomino Beach (La Guajira) A hidden gem for surfers and backpackers.
Bahía Concha (Santa Marta) – Less crowded, beautiful setting.
Spratt Bight (San Andres) – San Andres’ main beach, vibrant and lively.
FAQ
What is the best month to visit Colombia’s Caribbean coast?
The best months are December to April, when the weather is dry and sunny.
Is it safe to visit Cartagena and Santa Marta?
Yes! Cartagena and Santa Marta are generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas. Exercise caution at night and use official taxis or rideshare apps.
How many days do you need in Cartagena?
Three days in Cartagena is perfect to explore the walled city, take a boat trip to the Rosario Islands, and enjoy the nightlife.
What is the best way to get to the Rosario Islands?
The best way is by speedboat from Cartagena, which takes about an hour. Many tours offer day trips, but overnight stays are recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Do I need a visa to visit Colombia?
Most travelers, including those from the US, Canada, and the EU, do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.
Is San Andres worth visiting?
Yes. San Andres Island is known for its stunning coral reefs, all-inclusive resorts, and unique island culture influenced by English, African, and Spanish heritage.
Final Thoughts
Gong to the coast soon? DM me on Instagram. I have contacts who’ve lived on the coast and can get you the best information.
Colombia’s Caribbean coast has something for every traveler—whether you want to explore colonial streets in Cartagena, lounge on the best beaches in Santa Marta, or experience an island escape in San Andres.
Plan wisely, choose the best season to visit, and enjoy everything this breathtaking coastline has to offer.
Grab our Ultimate Colombia Travel Guide if you plan on exploring more of the country.
To your growth and travels,
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