From the white sands of the Caribbean coast, to the wild coastline of the country's Pacific seaboard, Colombia's beaches are among the country's main attractions. Whether you are seeking lively beach towns with vibrant nightlife, or a quiet coastal getaway, you'll find this and more in Colombia.
Colombia has beaches to suit all tastes and all kinds of vacation. Playa Blanca, Santa Marta, and Tayrona National Park on the northern coast offer stunning white-sand beaches set along the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. The western coast of the country, meanwhile, offers rugged Pacific Ocean cliffs and great opportunities to see wildlife.
With thousands of miles of coastline stretching across two of its sides, Colombia is a superb choice for a beach vacation. Whether you're seeking buzzing beachfront bars or exceptional whale watching opportunities, there's a beach in Colombia for you.
Some of the most famous beaches in Colombia can be found in the resort town of Santa Marta. From the sweeping white sands of Rodadero to the quaint bay of Taganga, visitors can relax on the beach by day and party at great bars late into the night.
Not far from Santa Marta is the legendary Tayrona National Park, where a number of fine beaches can be enjoyed. They are quieter and wilder than the main town’s beaches, and have lush forests of the national park just behind.
A little further west along the Caribbean coast is the popular Playa Blanca, named for its pure white sands. Visitors are drawn here by the powdery sand and azure waters, and for a memorable way to arrive, take the boat from nearby Cartagena.
The northwest Pacific coast of Colombia offers excellent whale watching opportunities, making it a prime destination for wildlife lovers. One of the best places to do so is Bahia Solano, where whales are regularly spotted from June through October.
Part of Colombia but geographically closer to Nicaragua, the idyllic island of San Andres sits in the Caribbean Sea. Known for its coral reefs, it is a great place for scuba diving and snorkeling. Plus, it has a distinctive Caribbean island culture.
When planning a beach vacation to Colombia, it’s worth remembering that the country is vast. Though it can take some time to get between the popular beaches here, it is incredibly rewarding to travel to different parts of the country—each coastline has its own appeal and offers a unique experience.