The Best Beaches in Colombia

Colombia has two coastlines — the Caribbean and the Pacific — and some stunning beaches. Here are the best.

Caribbean beaches

Rosario Islands (from Cartagena)

A coral archipelago with turquoise water and white sand, a short boat ride from Cartagena — the top beach day trip.

Tayrona National Park (near Santa Marta)

Jungle-backed beaches where the Sierra Nevada meets the sea. Cabo San Juan is the iconic spot.

San Andrés & Providencia

Caribbean islands famous for their seven-color sea — Colombia's classic beach-holiday destination.

Palomino

A laid-back beach town near Santa Marta, popular for tubing down the river to the sea.

Pacific beaches

The Pacific coast (Chocó) — Nuquí and Bahía Solano — offers wild, uncrowded beaches, jungle and (in season) whale watching.

Tips

• The Caribbean is best in the dry season (December–April).
• For the Rosario Islands, go on a calm, sunny morning.
• Bring sunscreen, water and cash for the islands.

Book the day right

Reserve island and beach experiences directly with certified local guides/operators on GuiME — clear inclusions and fair prices. Browse Cartagena and Colombia experiences on GuiME.