Hotels in Santa Marta

Santa Marta: A Coastal Gem Where Nature and Adventure Embrace

Nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Santa Marta enchants with its pristine beaches, lush natural parks, and vibrant coral reefs. This coastal city offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, perfect for nature enthusiasts and luxury travellers alike. Wander through its bustling marina, explore hidden coves, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of a historical city that seamlessly marries natural splendour with modern luxury.

Discover great hotels near Santa Marta

Santa Marta offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious 5-star hotels. Whether you prefer a beachfront retreat, a charming boutique hotel, or a family-friendly resort, you'll find plenty of choices to suit your needs in this vibrant coastal city. Here are some of the best hotels near Santa Marta that our travelers love:

1. Remedios La Bella Hotel BoutiqueOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, making it a delightful choice for savvy travellers. With a charming Bed and Breakfast setup, it offers a variety of dining options including complimentary breakfast and a snack bar. Guests can unwind with entertainment features such as multiple television options. The hotel’s unique location near the city centre enhances the experience, with a standout review highlighting its fantastic staff and great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay.
2. Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa DormidaOpens in a new window: A stunning 4.5-star hotel, this property enjoys a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10 and is perfect for leisure travellers seeking a beachside retreat. With direct beach access, it offers an array of family-centric amenities, enriching the vacation experience. The hotel features a fabulous restaurant and ensures a smooth experience with easy airport transfers. Guests have praised the beautiful setting and exceptional service, making it a highly recommended choice for those looking to indulge in seaside luxury.
3. Casa de LedaOpens in a new window: This 4.0-star hotel is an excellent option for adventure-seeking travellers, holding a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. With direct beach access, it offers thrilling activities such as motorboating, kayaking, and windsurfing, promising an active holiday. The hotel is well-maintained and offers a clean, comfortable environment. Guests appreciate the quality of the food at the beachside restaurant, enhancing their overall experience. With a focus on adventure and enjoyment, this hotel is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the dynamic coastal lifestyle.

Where to stay in Santa Marta

In Puerto de Gaira, Pozos Colorados, and Taganga, each offers unique charms—from Puerto de Gaira’s inviting beach, lively dining and live music scene, to Pozos Colorados’ family-friendly, relaxing beach tours and excursions, and Taganga’s superb diving, boating and natural park experiences. For first-time visitors, Puerto de Gaira is the ideal base.

1. Puerto de GairaOpens in a new window: This vibrant spot is perfect if you’re after a blend of beach vibes and lively dining experiences. With its friendly people and lively live music scene, it’s a great base for travellers who enjoy shopping and relaxed bar evenings. Its coastal charm makes it a stand-out choice for those seeking a mix of leisure and social excitement.
2. Pozos ColoradosOpens in a new window: Ideal for a family-friendly retreat, this area offers a relaxed beach atmosphere paired with local dining and occasional festivals. Travellers can enjoy a range of tours and excursions that allow for a laid-back, yet engaging, seaside experience. The calm sea views and easygoing recreation options make it a perfect spot for a quiet stay.
3. TagangaOpens in a new window: A haven for water lovers, Taganga boasts a focus on diving and boating with a backdrop of natural parks and coral reefs. The scenic Taganga Beach and Grande Beach offer a perfect blend of swimming and relaxed sunbathing. Adding to its appeal is the historic Santa Marta Cathedral, making it an attractive choice for those wishing to combine nature with a touch of local culture.

Things to do in Santa Marta

Santa Marta beckons with its stunning blend of sun-kissed beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant natural parks. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with coral reefs, hike through lush forests, or embark on scenic boat tours along the coastline. This tropical paradise offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

• Buritaca BeachOpens in a new window – Relax on pristine sands and enjoy the gentle waves at Buritaca Beach. The area's natural beauty is complemented by lush landscapes, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing and beach strolls. You can explore nearby natural parks and witness the vibrant coral reefs that adorn the coastline.
• Rodadero BeachOpens in a new window – Enjoy the lively atmosphere at Rodadero Beach, where you can indulge in beachside activities or simply lounge under the sun. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning views, this beach is ideal for families and friends looking to unwind and soak up the sun while enjoying water sports or local food.
• Bello Horizonte BeachOpens in a new window – Known for its calm waters and serene environment, Bello Horizonte Beach offers a tranquil escape. Spend your day swimming or taking leisurely walks along the shore, and don’t miss out on witnessing the breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues.
• Taganga BeachOpens in a new window – Dive into adventure at Taganga Beach, a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. The rich marine life and colourful coral reefs provide an exciting underwater experience. After a day of exploration, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants while watching the boats bobbing in the harbour.
• Parque de los NoviosOpens in a new window – Stroll through Parque de los Novios, a charming urban park where you can relax in the shade of its trees or enjoy a picnic with family and friends. This park is a great place to unwind after a day at the beach, offering a peaceful setting with lovely gardens and pathways for leisurely walks.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Santa Marta

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Santa Marta are February, September, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a great value for money experience, it is advisable to stay for at least 2 to 3 days to fully appreciate the city’s historical landmarks and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can enjoy a range of activities including relaxing on the beach, exploring local cafes, diving, scuba diving, hiking, and discovering natural parks and coral reefs. This makes for an enriching getaway that is both affordable and memorable.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: For your trip to Santa Marta, you may discover attractive hotel deals by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. When planning closer to your departure, you're more likely to see discounted rates in the Last-Minute Deals area. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so if rooms become available or costs drop, you could find the perfect last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can vary depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your dates may help you save on your stay in a Santa Marta hotel. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels offer a more personalised experience and may sometimes provide better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your selected dates is above or below the average, and if it is on the higher side, we might suggest more affordable dates to help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive. However, Santa Marta’s excellent public transport links mean that you may well find a more affordable independent hotel further afield which is still conveniently connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money. Opting for these alternative destinations may provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Santa Marta

Santa Marta experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 79.9°F (26.6°C), while May to September are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 81.5°F (27.5°C). October is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Santa Marta, January, July, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, with no to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, September, and October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.