An Insider’s Guide to the 8 Best Beaches in Colombia

Colombia is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries and is flanked by both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. These unique factors make it one of the most stunning destinations on the planet for beach-goers. 

Whether you’re seeking a water sports adventure, laid-back sunbathing, or a luxury experience, this Latin American country’s beaches have it all. Read on for our experts’ picks for the 8 best beaches in Colombia. 

Beaches on the Caribbean Sea

The Colombian Caribbean is known for its historic sites and vibrant cultural scene, as it is the most diverse stretch of the country. The region also boasts an incredible climate and crystalline shores that invite activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing. 

Explore the coral reefs, feel the wind in your sails, or simply take in the gorgeous view at one of the following five idyllic beach destinations.

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

This national park is a must for anyone with an interest in snorkeling or scuba diving. This natural site is home to over 7000 acres of crystal-clear sea dotted with colorful coral reefs. 

Tayrona has 34 beaches, but visitors should stick to the seven that are apt for swimming (Cabo San Juan, La Piscina, Playa Cristal, Playa Neguanje, Playa Gairaca, Playa Cinto, and Bahia Concha). Taking a guided boat tour is a great way to explore several of the reserve’s best spots safely. 

If getting in the water isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty to do in the park, like hiking or visiting the indigenous town of Pueblito. 

Spratt Bight, Isla San Andrés

Isla San Andrés (or San Andrés Island) is a popular vacation spot thanks to its white sand and tranquil, teal water. Spratt Bight is the main beach on this island and boasts a unique, upbeat atmosphere. 

Spratt Bight is an urban beach, meaning that it’s nestled between bars, restaurants, and shops, so it’s the perfect destination for someone who hopes to disconnect without getting too far from basic amenities. The beach itself also offers certain conveniences, too, like sunshades and chairs. What’s more, vendors selling food and drinks pass all day, so you won’t have to get up from your lounger to grab a bite. 

Southwest Bay, Providencia, Isla San Andrés

Calling all reggae fans and foodies. This tranquil bay, also on San Andrés Island, is the perfect stop for laid-back folks wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy an afternoon listening to local music and sampling traditional dishes, like coconut rice and snapper.

The water is calm enough for visitors to take a dip, practice water sports, or snorkel. And the region has plenty of accommodation options for those looking to turn a visit into a longer stay.   

Isla Grande, Rosario Island

The largest island in the Rosario Island archipelago, Isla Grande is home to some of Colombia’s most diverse wildlife and stunning shores. Isla Grande is known as an “aquarium” thanks to its healthy coral reefs and nighttime bioluminescent light shows.

Even if you don’t plan on exploring Isla Grande’s underwater delights, it’s still an excellent destination. With stunning hotels and vacation rentals, this island is perfect for the luxury traveler seeking a stay that’s off the beaten path. 

Beaches on the Pacific Ocean 

Colombia’s Pacific coast is a dream destination for the adventurous traveler. The Western shores of the country are famous for their dramatic jungle landscapes, rideable waves, and eco-friendly appeal. 

Backpackers, surfers, and divers will find plenty to do in the region’s many reserves, from animal sightings to tours exploring remote destinations—including an unbeatable, far-flung diving spot.  

Bahia Solano

Enjoy the best of the tropics in Bahia Solano, a small stretch with natural waterfalls and beautiful beaches that are great for water sports, including snorkeling and diving. This bay is also famous for its whale watching. From July to October, you can spot whales feeding their young. 

Bahia Solano is an ideal pick for eco-travelers who share the simple living values of the region’s locals. It’s also perfect for wildlife lovers—the bay has far more to offer than just whale sightings. See turtles, dolphins, lizards, and lush, floral jungle landscapes. 

Playa Terco, Nuquí

Playa Terco is a must for surfers of all levels. Despite the name (which translates to Stubborn Beach in English), the ocean is hospitable for beginning surfers as well as intermediate to advanced riders looking for bigger swells. 

Playa Terco is only accessible by boat, and visitors can grab a boat from nearby Nuqui. The Nuqui region is excellent if you’re an eco-traveler hoping to disconnect and delve into nature—whether or not you suf. Take long hikes through the jungle and rest your muscles in natural hot springs. You may catch a whale and dolphin sighting, too.

Ensenada de Utria

Ensenada de Utria is home to a jaw-dropping natural park, teeming with diverse ecosystems—from mangroves to coral reefs. The region is also known for its pool-like, teal swimming holes that look as if they should be on the Caribbean coast. Hike, swim, snorkel, and kayak, enjoying the local flora and fauna. You might even be lucky enough to spot a humpback whale. 

Ensenada de Utria is best for eco-travelers. Hotels in the zone tend to cater to this audience. The region’s charming (but not luxury) accommodations are affordable, making this destination a top budget vacation option for the adventurous. The true attraction here is nature itself.

Malpelo Island

If you’re an experienced diver, you can’t miss Malpelo Island. But go prepared. This remote nature preserve can only be accessed by liveaboard boating tours. The government limits how many people can be on the island (only one boat can be on the island at a time) and issues permits to visitors travelling with a sanctioned tour. What’s more, the ride out to the island can take up to 40 hours.  

But the effort is well worth it. Malpelo Island is known as the shark-diving capital of Colombia, and divers can expect to encounter hammerheads, whale sharks, and several other varieties. The region’s thriving reefs are also home to manta and eagle rays, barracudas, turtles, and impressive schools of fish. 

Plan Your Perfect Beach Vacation with Cielo Travel

Whether your ideal beach vacation is sipping a drink with your feet up at a luxury hotel or shark diving deep in the Pacific Ocean, Cielo Travel will help you plan a flawless experience. 

With deep knowledge of Colombia’s most exclusive hideaways and off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Cielo Travel team will arrange a getaway that’s safe, organized, and as unique as you are.