Colombia’s Caribbean coast is a laidback stretch of tropical beaches, small islands, and historic cities. Whether you’re here for the beaches, food, or nature, it’s one of the most rewarding parts of Colombia to visit.
Colombia is warm throughout the year, but the best time to visit the Caribbean coast is from December to March when skies are clear and rainfall is low. This stretch is ideal for visiting Cartagena, Santa Marta and the Rosario Islands. Average temperatures along the coast stay around 27°C (80°F ), with plenty of sunshine. Rain picks up from April to May and October to November tend to bring more rain, especially in the afternoons.
If you're looking for sunshine, December to March is the sweet spot for Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
Colombia’s Caribbean coast has something for every kind of traveler. Some areas are great for exploring local culture and food, while others are better for beach time, day trips, or a slower pace. Whether you’re visiting for history, nature, or both, these are the top places to stay.
Cartagena is the most popular destination on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, known for its UNESCO-listed walled old town, colorful streets, and seaside atmosphere. It’s the easiest entry point for international travelers and offers every type of accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels.
Best for: first-time visitors, food lovers, history and culture
Why stay here: perfect mix of sightseeing, restaurants, nightlife, and day trips to the Rosario Islands and nearby beaches
Santa Marta is Colombia’s oldest city and a relaxed Caribbean base for Tayrona National Park, Minca, and the Sierra Nevada mountains. It has beautiful local beaches, a growing food scene, far fewer crowds than Cartagena, and plenty of hostels, boutique hotels and beachfront stays.
Best for: nature lovers, backpackers, Tayrona and Minca visitors
Why stay here: direct access to Colombia’s best beaches and jungle hikes, authentic vibe, and lower prices
The Rosario Islands are a group of 27 coral islands about one hour by boat from Cartagena, known for clear water, excellent snorkeling, and some of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches. While most people visit on a day trip, staying overnight in one of the island hotels or small beach stays lets you enjoy the coast with fewer people around.
Best for: couples, beach lovers, anyone looking to unplug
Why stay here: calm beaches, fewer crowds, and a slower island pace close to Cartagena
Caribbean coast is one of the safest parts of Colombia for tourists. Cartagena, Santa Marta, Tayrona and the Rosario Islands have strong police presence and very low violent crime against visitors. Millions travel smoothly every year. Inland areas like Bogotá and Medellín are also much safer than in the past, but petty theft is more common, so stay alert.
Colombia’s Caribbean coast is one of the safest areas in the country for travelers.
Colombia’s Caribbean coast offers a mix of city life, beach time, and nature adventures. Whether you are walking through Cartagena’s old town, heading out on a trek that lasts several days, or taking a boat to the islands, these are the top experiences in the region.
Cartagena’s old town is a UNESCO-listed maze of stone walls, plazas, and colorful buildings that date back to the 1500s. You can spend the day walking along the city walls, taking in sea views, and stopping at shady squares for coffee or street food. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal if you want quiet streets and softer light. Guided walking tours leave daily from Plaza Santo Domingo, and these guided options often include stories from the city’s colonial past.
The Rosario Islands sit about 1 hour from Cartagena by boat and are known for clear water, snorkeling spots, and quiet beaches. Most tours include round-trip transport, lunch, and time to swim or relax at Isla Grande or Cholón. Group tours are easy to book online, and private boats are available for a quieter experience. It is one of the easiest ways to get out on the water and enjoy a different side of the coast.
Tayrona is one of Colombia’s most popular national parks, with forest trails that lead to beaches like Cabo San Juan. You can hike from the main entrance or take a boat from Taganga if you want a shorter day. Entrance tickets often sell out during holiday months, so it’s best to book ahead. Catamaran tours are also an option for travelers looking for a more relaxed way to see the coastline.
The Lost City trek is a guided hike through the Sierra Nevada mountains to ancient ruins older than Machu Picchu. The route covers about 46 kilometers round trip and typically takes 4 days, though some tours stretch to 5. You sleep in shared camps and pass rivers, jungle, and small villages along the way. It is a physically demanding experience, but for many travelers, it’s the most memorable part of their trip.
Colombia sits in the northwest corner of South America and borders Panama, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador. It is the only country on the continent with both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines. The Caribbean side stretches over 1,600 km and includes cities like Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Barranquilla.
28°CCuraçao offers colorful city life, turquoise seas and rich island culture all year round.
27°CA peaceful retreat in the Caribbeans with captivating natural attractions.
