Best Beaches in Colombia And Towns With These Beautiful Beach Spots [Plus Map!]

Key Takeaways

• Colombia’s Caribbean coast features touristy beaches with clear blue waters popular among kite surfers.
• Nature enthusiasts can discover diverse flora, fauna, including turtles, dolphins, and over 500 butterfly species.
• Gaira Beach Town combines mountainous terrains with numerous lakes and streams for outdoor activities.
• San Andres, the largest island in its archipelago, boasts pristine beaches and sought-after beachfront properties.
• Cities like Taganga, Santa Marta, and Palomino offer stunning white-sand beaches and various recreational activities.
• Colombia’s coastal cities, especially Cartagena and Santa Marta, provide unique experiences from history to nightlife.

Colombia has an endless variety of beach towns along its Caribbean and Pacific coasts. The Caribbean coast boasts more touristy beaches, but many of them have clear blue water and are popular with kite surfers and windsurfers. Colombia’s Pacific coast is dotted with laid-back coastal towns that are popular with surfers and travelers looking to get away. It makes me curious, what are some of the best Colombian beach towns?

What are 9 Colombian Beach Towns With The Best Beaches in Colombia?

So, what are some beautiful Colombian beach towns? On the Caribbean side, there are these beach towns Palomino, Taganga, Gaira, Santiago de Tolu, Covenas, and San Andres. On the Pacific Ocean, side of Colombia you will find the beach towns of Bahia Solano, Nuqui, and Juanchaco.

 A few interesting statistics about Colombia:

• Colombia’s coastline extends 3,208 km (1,993 mi). (Source)
• Cartagena is Colombia’s oldest city, founded in 1533.
• Colombia’s most popular tourist destination is Cartagena, which draws about 2.2 million visitors annually.
• Tidal flats are often seen on Colombia’s coastline. According to Wikipedia, “A recent global remote sensing analysis suggested that there were 553km of tidal flats in Colombia, making it the 46th ranked country in terms of tidal flat area. (Source) 

Sitting between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Colombian Beach Towns present a fusion of a tropical climate and abundant Colombian Culture. Santa Marta, a city steeped in history, flourishes under its tropical climate and supports diverse coastal ecosystems. Intertwined with the local culture is the Spanish language, and the air filling with the rhythm of traditional music.

Cartagena stands proud as a UNESCO World Heritage site, radiating charm through its colonial architecture and offering a spectrum of nightlife activities. The Pacific coastal towns, Nuqui and Capurganá, charm visitors through their lush, untouched nature. Nuqui draws travellers to its natural splendour with its local wildlife and marine biodiversity, emerging as a hub for eco-tourism. Conversely, Capurganá, a quaint fishing village, celebrates the bond with the sea through its festivals and events.

The Colombian cuisine envelopes you with the tempting aroma of seafood, local produce, and spices. The street food promises a culinary journey, introducing travellers to authentic local flavours. The influence of Colombian culture manifests in its local handicrafts, offering a piece of this vibrant culture.

San Andres, catering to thrill-seekers, brings water sports to its turquoise waters. Balanced with its cultural offerings, it emphasises sustainable tourism, caring for the environment while engaging visitors. The Colombian beach towns offer a unique blend of history, culture, cuisine, and unforgettable natural beauty through coastal tourism. This composition of elements captures the essence of these towns, crafting an unmatched travel experience.

The Colombian coastline is dotted with small islands, coral reefs, and mangroves. Colombia’s Caribbean coast is fringed by white sand beaches with calm, turquoise water. Nature lovers will find an abundance of flora and fauna, including turtles, dolphins, and more than 500 species of butterflies.

Let’s explore the beach towns of Colombia and see what it has to offer – some of the best beach towns Colombia give you plenty of options. Stay tuned, you won’t want to miss it!

What Are the Best 9 Colombian Beach Towns to Visit? Beautiful Playa And Scenery

Palomino Beach Town, Colombia

Palomino is a small beach town in Colombia where there are many beautiful beaches. The town is visited by locals and tourists from surrounding areas. Palomino is famous for its beaches, surfing and other water sports.

Taganga Beach Town, Colombia

Taganga Beach is a beach town in the department La Guajira in Colombia. It is one of Colombia’s most famous beaches. The beach is popular for snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs and for swimming.

Gaira Beach Town, Colombia

The geography of Gaira Beach Town (or Gaira), is mountainous with many lakes and streams. The area is a popular tourist destination for Colombians and international tourists alike. The beach town is known for its many beach resorts. At Gaira you can enjoy many outdoor activities such as hiking or swimming in the many streams and lakes that the town offers.

Santiago de Tolu Beach Town, Colombia

The shore of Santiago de Tolu Beach Town is rocky and pebbled. The beach itself is long and wide; it extends for 11 kilometers (6.8 mi) between the headlands of “La Gaviota” and “Los Cocos”. The seabed is made of fine sand. The coastline is full of cliffs and crags. The town is a popular place for scuba diving and water sports.

Covenas Beach Town, Colombia

Covenas Beach Town is a small town in the province of Santander in Colombia. It is a popular tourist resort for both Colombian and international tourists alike. Covenas Beach Town has about 1,400 inhabitants. Covenas is famous for its fine sand beaches located on the Colombian Caribbean coast. The coastline is full of cliffs and crags. The town is a popular place for scuba diving and water sports.

San Andres Beach Town, Colombia

San Andres is a small island and municipality of Colombia, located some 65 kilometers (40 mi) from the mainland. It is the largest island of the San Andres archipelago, which also includes Providencia and Santa Catalina islands. San Andres is sometimes called the “Pearl of the Pacific” because of its unspoiled beaches and coral reefs. The coastline is full of cliffs and crags. The town is a popular place for scuba diving and water sports. Cartagena Beach Town, Colombia Cartagena is a city located on the northern coast of Colombia on the Caribbean coast. It is the second most important city in Colombia.

Bahia Solano Beach Town, Colombia

Bahia Solano is a beach town located in Colombia. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colombia. The town of Bahia Solano is situated on a peninsula that separates the waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The town’s main attraction is its beaches which are generally considered among the best in the world. The beaches are pristine and beachfront property is very desirable. The town of Bahia Solano is also known for its colonial architecture, some of which dates to the 16th century. Bahia Solano is a popular tourist destination for Colombians and international tourists alike.

Nuqui Beach Town, Colombia

Nuqui is a beach town in the department of La Guajira in Colombia. It is 55 kilometers (34 mi) from the town of Riohacha and 60 kilometers (37 mi) from the town of Santa Marta. Nuqui is also a popular tourist destination for Colombians and international tourists alike. Nuqui is a beach town in the department of La Guajira in Colombia. It is 55 kilometers (34 mi) from the town of Riohacha and 60 kilometers (37 mi) from the town of Santa Marta. Nuqui is also a popular tourist destination for Colombians and international tourists alike. Description: Nuqui is a beach town in the department of La Guajira in Colombia. It is 55 kilometers (34 mi) from the town of Riohacha and 60 kilometers (37 mi) from the town of Santa Marta. Nuqui is also a popular tourist destination for Colombians and international tourists alike.

Juanchaco Beach Town, Colombia

Juanchaco is a beach town in the department of La Guajira in Colombia. It is 55 kilometers (34 mi) from the town of Riohacha and 60 kilometers (37 mi) from the town of Santa Marta. Juanchaco is also a popular tourist destination for Colombians and international tourists alike. Juanchaco is a beach town in the department La Guajira in Colombia. It is 55 kilometers (34 mi) from the town of Riohacha and 60 kilometers (37 mi) from the town of Santa Marta.

What Are Some of The Activities to Do in These Beach Towns?

What Are Some Exciting Things to Do in These Beach Towns?

1. Visit the beaches! Of course, one of the best things to do in any beach town is to visit the beach itself. Soak up some sun, go for a swim, and build a sandcastle – there are endless possibilities.

2. Check out the local shops and restaurants. Colombia Beach towns usually have great shopping and dining options, so be sure to explore what’s available.

3. Take a scenic walk or bike ride. Many beach towns are located in beautiful areas, so take advantage of that by going for a walk or ride along the coastline or through town.

4. Go on an adventure! If you’re feeling adventurous, there are often plenty of activities to choose from in beach towns – from parasailing and surfing to kayaking and hiking.

Visit the Beaches on The Caribbean Coast of Colombia – Coastal Colombia

These beach towns – Palomino, Taganga, Gaira, Santiago de Tolu, Covenas, and the island of San Andres are beach towns on the Caribbean coast of Colombia and have multiple beaches that you can visit. Many of these are white-sand beaches with turquoise water, a refreshing and beautiful sight to experience.

Visit the Attractions in These Beach Towns

There are many attractions in these beach towns, including the beaches themselves, which offer a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and so on. Other attractions include shops, restaurants, museums, and parks. Colombian culture, architecture, and historical influences are also attractions to be experienced. 

What Are Some of The Best Beaches in These Beach Towns? List of Beaches Close to Colombian Beach Towns

Colombia Beaches Map – Interactive

The Best Beaches in Colombia – Table

If you’re planning a trip to Colombia and looking to experience its coastal beauty, you’re in for a treat. Colombia is home to some of the most stunning shorelines in the world. From the vibrant atmosphere of Cartagena’s Old City to the tranquil escape of Isla De Baru, the best beaches in Colombia offer a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. Below is a table that summarizes key features and activities you can enjoy at some of the best beaches in Colombia.

Beach	Key Beach Features	Beach Activities
Cartagena’s Old City	Mini Miami-like, less hectic, colorful cityscape, local markets, street vendors	Sunbathing, jet skiing, dining in beachfront restaurants, dancing to salsa music
Isla De Baru	Pristine turquoise waters, white sand beaches, escape from city hustle	Day trips, sunbathing, swimming, dancing under the stars to Caribbean music
Rosario Islands	Collection of 27 small islands, coral reefs, glittering waters	Snorkeling, island hopping, exploring underwater life
Palomino Beach	Nestled between Sierra Nevada and Caribbean ocean, raw landscape	Water sports, lazing around, exploring local markets, enjoying the jungle backdrop
Santa Marta’s Beaches	Bustling port town, tranquil seaside, hidden coves	Navigating hidden coves, exploring marine life, unwinding under palm trees, watching stunning sunsets

Does Colombia Have White Sand Beaches??

Colombia definitely has some beautiful white sand beaches! In fact, many of the best beaches in the country are blessed with lovely white sands.

Some of the best white sand beaches in Colombia can be found in the beach towns of Cartagena and Santa Marta. These beach towns are all located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia and boast some truly stunning stretches of sand.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking white sand beach experience in Colombia, definitely check out one of these three amazing beach towns!

What Is the Most Popular Colombian Beaches to Visit

One of the most popular Colombian beaches to visit is Playa Blanca. It is located in the municipality of Bolivar and is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Playa Blanca is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Colombia.

What City in Colombia Has Beaches? Colombian Beaches to Visit

What city in Colombia has beaches?

The large cities of Taganga, Santa Marta, Cabo San Juan del Guia, and Palomino are small cities that have beaches. 

Taganga

Taganga is a beautiful beach town located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. The town is known for its stunning beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Taganga also offers a variety of other activities, such as fishing, hiking, and bird watching.

Santa Marta

Santa Marta is a city located in the Magdalena department of Colombia. The city is situated on the Caribbean Sea, and is a popular tourist destination for its beaches.

Some of the most popular beaches in Santa Marta include Playa Blanca, El Rodadero, and Taganga. These beaches offer visitors a chance to relax on the sand, swim in the sea, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Cabo San Juan del Guia

Cabo San Juan del Guia is located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia and is known for its beautiful beaches. The city has a wide variety of beaches to choose from, ranging from secluded and tranquil to busy and lively. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or party, you’ll find the perfect spot in Cabo San Juan del Guia.

Palomino

The Palomino beach is located in the municipality of Santa Marta, Magdalena. It is a virgin beach that still has its natural beauty and is ideal for those who love to relax in nature. The average temperature is 28 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit Palomino beach is from December to April.

What Part of Colombia Has the Best Beaches? Have the Best Beach Trip in Colombia

What Part of Colombia Has the Best Beaches?

The best beaches in Colombia are located on the Caribbean coast. This is because the water is warmer and the waves are smaller. The most popular beach destination in Colombia is Cartagena. Other popular beach destinations include Santa Marta, San Andres, and Barranquilla.

Is Colombia worth visiting? A Few Coastal Columbia Cities to Visit

Is Colombia worth visiting?

If you’re looking for a beautiful and exotic country to visit, Colombia should definitely be on your list! The stunning beach cities in Colombia boast lush rainforests, and friendly locals, Colombia is a great place to explore. And, thanks to recent improvements in safety and infrastructure, it’s now easier than ever to travel around the country.

Here are a few of our favorite places to visit in Colombia:

Cartagena: This colonial city on the Caribbean coast is full of history and charm. Stroll through the Old Town, admire the architecture, and enjoy the delicious seafood.

Medellin: Once known as the most dangerous city in the world, Medelli­n has undergone an amazing transformation in recent years. Today, it’s a vibrant metropolis with plenty of culture and nightlife. Be sure to check out Parque Biblioteca Espana an incredible public library built into a hillside slum.

Bogota: The capital city of Colombia is home to some of the best museums in the country. We recommend visiting Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), Botero Museum (Museo Botero), and National Museum (Museo Nacional).

What Part of Colombia Is in The Caribbean??

A few of the coastal cities that we would recommend exploring are Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Barranquilla. Each of these cities has something unique to offer visitors, whether it’s stunning architecture and history in Cartagena, beautiful beaches and nature in Santa Marta or a lively nightlife scene in Barranquilla.

What are Some Coastal Cities in Colombia?

A few of the largest Colombia coastal cities are Medellin, Cartagena, and Bogota. For some of the smaller cities, try Barranquilla and Santa Marta. There are plenty of activities to do in all of these cities.

Where Should I Go on The Colombian Coast?

Any of the nine beach towns that were described above will give you lots of enjoyment and opportunities to visit the beaches and see the natural beauty of the Colombian coast. 

What Islands Are Close to Colombia? a Few Columbian Island Beaches to Visit

The islands of San Andres and Providencia are close to Colombia. Both are small island groups located in the Caribbean Sea.

San Andres is an archipelago of 11 main islands and more than 100 smaller ones. Its capital city is La Guajira.

Providencia is also an archipelago of 10 islands. Its capital is Santa Catalina.

Both islands are very popular tourist destinations because of their beautiful beaches and natural landscapes. 

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! Nine of the best beach towns in Colombia has to offer and some descriptions of what you can do once you are there. As we have seen, Colombia has a beautiful coastline, and its beaches are among the most stunning in the entire region. From the northern coast near Cartagena to the southern tip near Santa Marta, these towns offer visitors a wide variety of activities from surfing to diving to hiking.

But perhaps the biggest draw of all is their natural beauty. These cities sit right along the Caribbean Sea, which means that they’re surrounded by gorgeous white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. So whether you want to relax on a quiet stretch of shoreline or explore the area’s rich history, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions‍

What are the best Colombian beach towns?

The best Colombian beach towns include Tayrona, Palomino, Isla, Playa Blanca, Providencia, Cartagena, Cabo de la Vela, Santa Marta, Rosario, and Punta Gallinas.

Which beach town is known for its national park?

Tayrona is known for its national park, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, where you can explore the jungle, see palm trees, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

What can you do in Tayrona National Park?

In Tayrona National Park, you can go on a day trip, visit the main beach, take a boat to other beaches on the island, and hike to Cabo San Juan for a stunning view.

Which beach town is famous for its Caribbean coast?

Cartagena is famous for its Caribbean coast and is a popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches and a historic old town.

Where can you find white beaches in Colombia?

You can find white beaches in Playa Blanca, a popular beach spot in Colombia with crystal clear waters.

What are the best surf beaches in Colombia?

Some of the best surf beaches in Colombia can be found in Palomino, where you can ride the waves and enjoy the laid-back beach atmosphere.

Which beach town is located on the Pacific coast?

Punta Gallinas is located on the Pacific coast of Colombia and is known for its unspoiled and beautiful beaches.

Which beach town is a small fishing village?

Capurganá is a small fishing village in Colombia where you can find beautiful beaches and clear waters.

What are the best places to visit in Colombia?

Some of the best places to visit in Colombia include the beach towns of Tayrona, Palomino, Isla, Playa Blanca, Providencia, Cartagena, Cabo de la Vela, Santa Marta, Rosario, and Punta Gallinas.

Are there any accessible beaches in Colombia?

Yes, you can find accessible beaches in Colombia in towns like Cartagena, where you can enjoy the beach and the city’s vibrant atmosphere.