Santa Marta is a gateway to some of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches, the incredible Tayrona National Park, and the up-and-coming jungle town of Minca. And most importantly, it’s a town that should not be missed off your Colombia to-do list.
Sure, the city can be suffocatingly hot and has its gritty areas, but it is also brimming with charm and character. Plus, just about anywhere you stay will have a pool or is close to the beach to cool off.
Deciding where to stay in Santa Marta is a crucial step when planning your trip. Whether you want to be hanging with the locals in the historic center or enjoying the sea views from El Rodadero, there are some pretty epic options to choose from.
Lucky for you (and me!), I’ve explored this place from top to bottom and I’m here to bring you the best info on where to stay and things to do. Whether you are a backpacker on a shoestring budget or looking for luxury high-rises, Santa Marta delivers on all fronts.
So, let’s get into the good stuff.
Photo: @amandaadraper
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Where Is The Best Place to Stay in Santa Marta?
If you’re deciding where to stay in Santa Marta, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll take you through the best areas to stay, accommodations, and things to do. However, if you’re short on time and want the TLDR version – here are my top picks for the best hotel, hostel, and Airbnb in Santa Marta.
Casa Solhu | Best Hotel in Santa Marta
The best stay for couples or solo travelers in Santa Marta is Casa Solhu. This boutique hotel is just dripping with a beach aesthetic. The rooms are gorgeously decorated with natural elements and the white linens bring that fresh, airy feel. The hotel has a pool that is perfect for lounging and enjoying the hot Santa Marta weather.
Viajero Hostel | Best Hostel in Santa Marta
Viajero’s is one of the best chain hostels in Colombia. The company has made its name amongst backpackers, it’s always a vibe and is full of all the good energy you need to make your stay amazing.
The hostel is located in the heart of Santa Marta, so you’ll be within walking distance of all the best restaurants and bars. What makes this hostel special is its epic rooftop bar with a pool, perfect for watching the sunset over the ocean.
Santa Marta Condo | Best Airbnb in Santa Marta
If you want to get away from it all and enjoy a peaceful stay in Santa Marta, this condo is the perfect choice. Located in the budget-friendly area of Taganga, this Condo is surrounded by stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
The condo is fully furnished with a kitchen, living room, balcony, and bedroom. Enjoy the ocean breeze and take in the beautiful scenery from your own private space.
Santa Marta Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Santa Marta
Historic Center
The historic center is like a trifle—it’s a mix of everything. You’ve got the beach, shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and tons of culture all in one place.
Taganga
Taganga may seem like a small fishing village without too much going on, but over the years it’s become a hub for backpackers, and granola yogis who prefer the laid-back vibes of this part of the coast.
El Rodadero
El Rodadero is definitely the boujier part of Santa Marta. The beaches are more well kept and the water is clear, making it a great spot for families with small children.
When I first arrived in Santa Marta, it was 11 pm, and let me tell you, I wasn’t feeling great about the dodgy dark roads and the suspicious stray dogs. But the next morning I was up early, out exploring and already falling in love with this coastal city.
Most travelers in this region only visit Cartagena, another nearby and popular coastal city. Unlike Cartagena, Santa Marta feels grittier and more authentic. You’ll have WAY less haggling for tours and taxis, you can just relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches and surrounding nature.
When deciding where to stay, there are three main areas to consider: El Rodadero, Taganga, and the historic center. They all offer something a little different, but it’s a small city, so no matter where you stay, you’ll have easy access to everything.
If it’s your first time in Santa Marta, the Historic Center is your best bet. It’s the heart of the city and where you’ll find the biggest variety of places to stay in Santa Marta. You can enjoy luxury apartments or Santa Marta’s coolest hostels.
For those looking for a more laid-back beach vibe, El Rodadero is the place to stay. It’s a popular spot for families and has a long stretch of sandy beaches lined with restaurants and bars. It’s mostly high rises and hotels and the views are lush.
And for adventurous travelers, Taganga offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. This former fishing village is now a hub for backpackers in Colombia and features colorful buildings perched on cliffs overlooking the ocean. This is perfect for all my budget travelers!
Santa Marta’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
If you’re backpacking around South America, you may already have an idea of where you want to stay by the time you hit Santa Marta. Aha, hold your horses! I’ve got an epic breakdown of the three best areas in Santa Marta, and you might just be surprised at which one calls your name.
So let’s get to it, here are Santa Marta’s top three areas to stay in:
1. Historic Center – Where to Stay in Santa Marta for Your First Time
The historic center is like a trifle—it’s a mix of everything. You’ve got the beach, shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and tons of culture all in one place. It’s also where you’ll find the top attractions like the historic cathedral and the local market. Just hold your nose because the meat section is gnarly.
Plus, staying in the historic center gives you a lot of variety when it comes to where to stay. Along the beach are some amazing hotels with views of the Caribbean Sea, while more inland you’ll find budget-friendly hostels and cozy guesthouses. You can’t go wrong with staying in the Historic Center.
Casa Solhu | Best Hotel in the Historic Center
This is the cutest stay in Santa Marta. Casa Solhu brings all the beachy vibes with white linens and natural fibers to decorate the rooms. It has a gorgeous indoor pool and stunning views of the cathedral from the Terrazza. Enjoy a homemade breakfast every morning before heading out to enjoy the beach just a short walk away.
El Cactus Luxury Apartments | Best Apartment in the Historic Center
El Cactus has everything you need for a luxurious stay in the heart of Santa Marta’s historic center. The apartments are beautifully designed with modern amenities and a touch of Colombian charm. The rooftop is out of this world, it’s super spacious with a small lounge pool and sun beds to enjoy the Caribbean sun.
Viajero Hostel | Best Hostel in the Historic Center
The best hostel in Santa Marta is Viajero, this South American chain has become a go-to option for backpackers looking for a fun and social atmosphere.
The rooftop pool is where it’s at during the day, enjoy some beer and meet travel buddies. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is having a good time and there are always social events being held. You will thrive!
Things to See and Do in the Historic Center of Santa Marta
- Visit the Cathedral Basilica De Santa Marta on a walking tour
- Shop for some fresh fruits at the local Santa Marta market
- Do a multi-day trek to the lost city
- Enjoy a beach day at Playa Blanca
- Go on a day trip to Tayrona National Park
- Visit the Museo del Oro Tairona (Gold Museum)
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Taganga – Best Place to Stay in Santa Marta on a Budget
At first glance, Taganga may seem like a small fishing village without too much going on, but over the years it’s become a hub for backpackers, and granola yogis who prefer the laid-back vibes of this part of the coast. If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the spot for you.
The town is nestled between mountains and has a beautiful stretch of beach where you can relax, swim, and enjoy some delicious seafood. And I’m not kidding, whether you’re staying in a shack or a fancy hotel, all the views are unreal. And the price is unbeatable!
Casa Tara | Best Guest House in Taganga
This cozy guest house is perfect for any type of traveler. With family rooms and double rooms, casa Tara has something for everyone.
It’s in a quiet area just a 10-minute walk from the beach and has a beautiful common area with hammocks and ocean views. The owners are incredibly friendly and helpful, making you feel right at home.
Hostal Vina Del Mar | Best Hostel in Taganga
Just a block from the beach, Hostal Vina Del Mar is a beach lovers paradise. It offers private rooms and dorms, both are very basic but have everything you need. The highlight of this hostel is the HUGE rooftop terrace!
It is always full of travelers reading books, enjoying a beer, or just taking in the epic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Caribbean Sea.
Santa Marta Condo | Best Condo in Taganga
A stay in this Airbnb will have you questioning if you should move to Taganga permanently. You will immediately feel at home with the cozy decor and beautiful view from the small bedroom balcony.
In the summer, it can get steamy during the day without air conditioning. However, with the ocean breeze, the evenings and nights are the perfect temperature.
Things to See and Do in Taganga
- Go scuba diving in the crystal clear waters of Taganga.
- Have a beach day at Playa Grande. (It’s just a $2 boat ride)
- Hike through the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains
- Enjoy a day trip to the coffee region of Minca
- Take a boat ride to Bahia Concho for a more secluded beach day
- Snorkel in the nearby reefs on a boat tour.
3. El Rodadero – Best Neighborhood in Santa Marta for Families to Stay In
El Rodadero is definitely the boujieer part of Santa Marta. The beaches are more well kept and the water is clear, making it a great spot for those traveling as a family. It’s about a 25-minute drive from the city center, so it’s a bit more secluded and quieter.
This area has a more resort feel, with high-rise hotels and upscale restaurants lining the beach. Many vacationers come here for exactly that – a vacation! You’ll find plenty of opportunities for water activities, such as jet skiing and banana boat rides, as well as beachside massages and delicious seafood restaurants.
Hotel Kayara | Best Hotel in El Rodadero
Hotel Kayara is a dive resort and it absolutely perfect for families. The rooms are spacious and modern, with comfortable beds and stunning ocean views.
Just 100 meters from the beach, you can easily spend your days lounging on the sand or enjoying water activities. The hotel also has activities for kids as well as two different pools for all ages.
Hostal Paraiso | Best Hostel in El Rodadero
Typically hostels and families don’t mesh well together, but Hostal Paraiso is an exception. This hostel has private family rooms, as well as dorm-style rooms for solo travelers or groups.
You can cook your own meals in the shared kitchen or relax in the common areas. It’s a very family-friendly hostel so you don’t have to worry about your little ones learning any new spicy words.
Apartment Suite | Best Apartment in El Rodadero
The views from this apartment are full of green palm trees and a sparkling blue ocean. The apartment has plenty of beds, a full kitchen, and a balcony to enjoy the coastal breeze. The decor is nothing to call home about, but you won’t be spending much time inside with the beautiful beaches just minutes away.
Things to See and Do in El Rodadero
- Go on a sunset sailing cruise
- Take a day tour of Barranquilla and Santa Marta
- Spend a day splashing in the waves of Playa El Rodadero
- Book a water sports adventure like jet skis
- Walk along the Malecon and enjoy street food vendors
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Santa Marta
Here are some frequently asked questions about the best place to stay in Santa Marta. if you have any more, drop ’em in the comments below!
What To Pack For Santa Marta
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Santa Marta
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Santa Marta.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Santa Marta
With a shit load of hostels, hundreds of hotels, and plenty of Airbnbs, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect place to stay in Santa Marta. But after six weeks in Colombia and multiple visits to Santa Marta, I can confidently say that the Historic Center is the best area to stay in.
Not only is it centrally located and within walking distance of everything you’ll want to do, but it also is full of that bright Colombian spirit! From street vendors selling fresh fruit to live music and dancing, it’s always a party.
And personally, the Viajero Hostel was so dope. The people staying and the amazing staff always had me extending my stay just one more night.
Wherever you end up, I hope you enjoy your time in Santa Marta as much as I did!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Colombia.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Santa Marta.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth South America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure
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