Here are my five top tips for what to do in the city of Santa Marta:
1. Wander the historic old town – Vibrant, lively, and a city that never sleeps: the small city of Santa Marta is often side-stepped by travellers on their way to the infamous Caribbean Coast due to its ‘rough around the edges’ reputation, however, they are missing out on an undiscovered Colombian gem. Stay in the historic centre where the narrow, cobbled streets are lined with colourful Spanish Colonial architecture and are pleasant to wander and explore, stopping for a drink or something to eat in one of the boutique cafés or bars. It may not be as typically photogenic as the nearby city of Cartagena, but Santa Marta offers an authentic, rustic charm.
2. Eat out – Santa Marta has an abundance of restaurants with outdoor seating in pedestrianised streets, similar in its vibe to European cities. Considerably cheaper than Cartagena, another tourist favourite in the area, the seafood is outstanding and always comes with an accompaniment of arroz de coco (coconut rice) which you will quickly become addicted to! If you want to try something more local, head to one of the many street food stands and pay a fraction of the restaurant prices for a tasty treat from very enthusiastic and friendly vendors!
3. Visit Taganga – A fifteen minute bus ride from the centre of Santa Marta is the small town of Taganga, a former fishing village. Though a bit gritty, it is popular destination for backpackers to learn to scuba dive, but also a good spot for a day at the beach in a beautiful hilly surrounding. Make sure you stay for sunset and watch the sun fall between the mountains of the bay from one of the well-priced, beach-front bars or restaurants. From the town, you can hike the coastal path to the quieter and more attractive beach of Playa Grande; however, be sure not to take valuables with you when walking along the path as there can be some safety issues with young locals taking advantage of tourists with expensive belongings. Alternatively, you could take a short boat ride from Taganga seafront round to the next bay if you’d feel prefer.
4. Head to the bars – Enjoy a sunset walk along the Malecón (promenade) and then venture off to a local bar. Santa Marta has a great selection of rooftop bars around the central Parque de los Novios where you can enjoy a beer or well-priced cocktail whilst taking in the views across the roofs of the city.
5. Go to Rodadero – Take a short bus or a taxi ride to the beaches at the fancier and wealthier Rodadero neighbourhood, about fifteen minutes from the historic town centre. These beaches are much cleaner than those in the city centre where the waters can be dirtied by the nearby port, and stretch for many kilometres lined with beach clubs, local vendors selling clothes and fripperies, restaurants and bars. The beach is full of Colombians who head here for a day at the beach away from the city, creating a vibrant and exciting atmosphere to enjoy.
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