Step into the cobblestone streets of Santa Marta's Historic Centre where colonial charm meets Caribbean flair. White-washed buildings with colourful balconies frame views of the Cathedral Basilica's towering facade. Wander through Plaza de Bolívar where palm trees provide shade from the tropical sun. The neighborhood's rich cultural heritage reflects a blend of Indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. Museum lovers can explore pre-Colombian treasures at the Gold Museum or visit the historic Casa de la Aduana with its elegant courtyards. The area connects easily to the waterfront promenade with its seaside views. Traditional Caribbean restaurants serve fresh seafood and coconut rice just steps from centuries-old plazas.
El Rodadero's golden crescent beach draws visitors with its warm Caribbean waters and vibrant atmosphere. Street performers and artisan stalls line the beachfront promenade, creating a festive scene day and night. This resort area blends relaxation with energy, making it perfect for beach lovers seeking both sun and social scenes. The Mundo Marino aquarium showcases fascinating local marine life just steps from the shore. Take the cable car up nearby hills for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and turquoise sea. With seafood restaurants, beachside bars, and water sports aplenty, El Rodadero offers a complete coastal escape in Santa Marta.
Los Cocos is a prime beachfront area in Santa Marta where golden sands meet the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Modern high-rise condominiums line the shore, offering upscale accommodation with ocean views. Elegant seaside restaurants serve fresh seafood on terraces perfect for watching spectacular sunsets. Palm-lined walkways invite evening strolls along the water. The area caters primarily to luxury travellers seeking relaxation and water activities. Crystal-clear waters provide excellent swimming and snorkelling opportunities right from your doorstep. Though limited in cultural attractions, Los Cocos excels with its sophisticated beachfront bars and pristine natural setting.
Bavaria offers an upscale residential retreat away from Santa Marta's tourist crowds. This quiet Colombian area features modern homes with terracotta roofs and manicured gardens along tree-lined streets. Travellers can experience authentic suburban living while enjoying private pools and peaceful surroundings. The area provides a genuine glimpse into local Colombian family life. Though limited in commercial activity, small eateries serve traditional home-style cooking at reasonable prices. City centre attractions remain just a 15-20 minute drive away, making Bavaria perfect for travellers seeking tranquility without complete isolation.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Santa Marta
Rodadero Beach
8.0/10 (646 reviews)
El Rodadero's white sands curve beneath mountains, offering a vibrant Colombian Caribbean escape. Enjoy water skiing and sailing, then explore the Sea Aquarium to meet diverse marine species up close.
Parque de los Novios
8.8/10 (690 reviews)
This vibrant plaza in Santa Marta's historic district buzzes with local culture and nightlife. Enjoy evening performances around the central bandstand before dining at one of the surrounding restaurants.
Santa Marta Cathedral
8.6/10 (281 reviews)
Colombia's first cathedral, Santa Marta Cathedral blends neoclassical and baroque styles and once housed Simón Bolívar's remains. Admire religious paintings inside this historic 1765 landmark.
Bello Horizonte Beach
9.0/10 (61 reviews)
This tranquil stretch of coastline offers clean waters and a family-friendly atmosphere just west of Santa Marta. Enjoy a peaceful beach day before exploring the nearby Zazue Plaza for upscale dining options.
Concha Bay
8.6/10 (41 reviews)
Bahía Concha's pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters create a tranquil coastal escape within Tayrona National Park. Swim, snorkel, or kayak in calm waters while surrounded by lush mountains and rich biodiversity.
Zazue
9.0/10 (127 reviews)
This modern shopping centre in Santa Marta's Bello Horizonte district offers a relaxing retreat with diverse retail and dining options. Enjoy ocean-adjacent shopping at Crepes & Waffles or Juan Valdez Café.
Buritaca Beach
8.6/10 (75 reviews)
Where the Buritaca River meets the Caribbean Sea, this pristine beach offers a rare dual-water experience. Enjoy river tubing through lush tropical landscapes before relaxing on white sands.
Quebrada Valencia Waterfall
8.8/10 (50 reviews)
Quebrada Valencia's multi-tiered waterfalls cascade into crystal-clear natural pools surrounded by vibrant tropical forest. Swim in the refreshing waters after a scenic 25-minute hike through Colombia's lush wilderness.
"Hotel was clean and staff friendly but not happy with an extra bill I got after I paid in full. I paid all my food charges and tips. Later received an email with extra charges that I was not spoken about or I had approved ! Not happy and want that reimbursed as I’m disputing charges now"
"The place and employees were lovely. I went there for the beach but it turned out it's not a good beach so I had to take a long drive to visit another beach in El rodadero. If I would have known the beach in this area was not nice, I would have probably not stayed there."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering great value package deals on Expedia, you'll be thrilled with how little a holiday to Santa Marta costs! Expedia's packages mean less travel planning for you and greater savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to Santa Marta?
April, September and October are great times to look for cheap Santa Marta holiday packages. Travelling in less busy months means you can typically find lower prices on flights and accommodation.
How many days is enough for Santa Marta?
Allow around 3 days for your Santa Marta holiday to enjoy all that makes this place special. Stroll around popular neighbourhoods, including Comuna 2 and Historic Centre. Then make a beeline for top attractions like Grande Beach and Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino. With a clever itinerary, you'll be kept busy with room for some me-time too. Want to travel beyond Santa Marta? Consider squeezing in an excursion or two.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Santa Marta?
Santa Marta has everything you need for an amazing escape. Begin your Santa Marta holiday on a high note by checking out major attractions like Parque de Los Novios.
How to find the best Santa Marta package deals?
Start your search for a Santa Marta package deal by entering your preferred travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then select a few filters, like "Popular locations" and "Property type," to fine-tune the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with unbeatable savings. If you don't find the perfect Santa Marta package deal straight away, simply tweak your dates and search again. Keep in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Santa Marta adventure underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Santa Marta holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could score you significant savings when compared to arranging accommodation and flights individually. Better still, you can customise your Santa Marta trip to fit your exact style. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Santa Marta?
If you have your Santa Marta travel dates finalized, book as soon as you can to score some incredible deals. With Expedia, you can often reserve some flights up to one year ahead of time. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are perfect for setting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Santa Marta?
Choose the best time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you like can all influence your decision on when to travel to Santa Marta.
Set your budget: Consider expenses such as flights, food and transportation when working out how much to set aside for your trip to Santa Marta. Then, pick a property that fits your budget, whether that's a low-cost stay or a deluxe retreat.
Work out your trip length: Consider how long you want to spend discovering Santa Marta. Plan your days so you can get to all the experiences and attractions you're interested in at a leisurely pace.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your hotels, flights, car rental and more into a tailored Santa Marta holiday package.
In Santa Marta, you can enjoy shopping at Zazue and Arrecife Shopping Center, both offering a lively mix of business and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, you may explore more extensive shopping options further afield for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
In Santa Marta, indulge in wellness at the Santa Marta Theater, where you can enjoy cultural performances that uplift your spirit. For sports enthusiasts, the Eduardo Santos Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere, perfect for engaging in recreational activities that promote fitness and well-being.
Adventure
Explore the Macondo Labyrinth, an exciting adventure venue in Santa Marta, where you can navigate through intricate pathways surrounded by lush vegetation. Immerse yourself in the thrilling atmosphere as you discover hidden corners and enjoy a unique blend of nature and adventure.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Santa Marta is vibrant, with lively bars like La Puerta and La Brisa.For a more relaxed evening, visit El Parque de los Novios, where you can savour local cuisine and enjoy live music under the stars. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for making unforgettable memories.
Find the best attractions in Santa Marta
Santa Marta, located on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Known for its beautiful beaches, stunning waterfalls, and urban parks, it offers a rich cultural experience alongside thrilling activities. Visitors can explore various attractions, including the Santa Marta Theatre and the picturesque beaches, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for every traveller.
Rodadero Beach: Experience the vibrant beach vibes at Rodadero Beach, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports, this beach is a lively spot for both relaxation and fun.
Santa Marta Cathedral: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage at Santa Marta Cathedral, a stunning example of colonial architecture. This historical site, with its beautiful altars and serene atmosphere, invites visitors to reflect on the city's past.
Quebrada Valencia Waterfall: Discover the enchanting Quebrada Valencia Waterfall, a hidden gem perfect for outdoor adventures. Surrounded by lush nature, this romantic spot offers exhilarating hikes and the chance to cool off in its refreshing waters.
Best time to go to Santa Marta
The best time to visit Santa Marta can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Marta falls in May, June, July, August and September. July has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Santa Marta falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Santa Marta
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santa Marta.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically February, September and November) for more affordable package holidays to Santa Marta.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.