Santa Marta Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Marta

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Marta boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and soft sands, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
• Outdoor Adventures: The area offers thrilling activities like hiking and exploring picturesque waterfalls, catering to adventure enthusiasts.
• Cultural Richness: Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through vibrant markets and historical sites.
• Scenic Marina: The Santa Marta Marina provides opportunities for boat tours and fishing, enhancing the coastal experience.
• Diverse Accommodations: From charming hostels to luxurious resorts, there's a perfect lodging option for every traveller.

Find great hotels in Santa Marta

Discover an array of hotel accommodations in Santa Marta, Magdalena, Colombia, ranging from charming hostels to luxurious resorts. Whether you seek pet-friendly options, beachside relaxation, or facilities catering to business travellers, you'll find the ideal lodging to suit your needs. Explore the diverse offerings and read reviews to ensure a memorable holiday experience in this vibrant coastal city.

• Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta: Nestled in the heart of Santa Marta, the Hilton Garden Inn is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to families and nature enthusiasts alike. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this property offers a serene atmosphere where guests can unwind amidst lush surroundings. Amenities tailored for children include complimentary cribs and breakfast options, while pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly policies. Emphasising wellness, the hotel features a lovely terrace that encourages visitors to soak in the natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a refreshing escape.
• AC Hotel by Marriott Santa Marta: The AC Hotel by Marriott Santa Marta, also rated at 3.5 stars with a guest rating of 8.8, is an ideal spot for beach lovers and business travellers. This modern hotel boasts direct access to the beach, allowing guests to easily enjoy the sun and sea. The hotel’s contemporary design and business facilities ensure a seamless blend of work and leisure, making it a suitable option for those looking to balance productivity with relaxation. Whether you are here for a short stay or an extended getaway, the AC Hotel provides a stylish and convenient base.
• Hilton Santa Marta: Situated in a prime location, the Hilton Santa Marta is a luxurious 3.5-star resort that receives high praise with a guest rating of 8.8. This property offers direct beach access, making it a desirable destination for those seeking a blend of luxury and leisure. With a focus on providing an upscale experience, guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms and top-notch facilities that cater to both relaxation and business needs. Ideal for those looking to indulge in a bit of pampering while remaining close to the vibrant coastal life of Santa Marta.

Where to stay in Santa Marta

Santa Marta, a vibrant coastal city in Colombia, offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. With its stunning beaches and friendly atmosphere, it's perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Nearby, you can explore beautiful destinations that enhance your experience, from tranquil shores to thrilling excursions. Discover the charm of Santa Marta and its surroundings, where every moment promises to be filled with memorable adventures and scenic beauty.

• Buritaca: Nestled near Santa Marta, Buritaca is a charming village renowned for its breathtaking outdoor scenery and adventurous spirit. The area is characterised by its stunning beaches and proximity to the lush national parks, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors tend to flock here in June and the festive months of December to January, drawn by the allure of outdoor activities such as hiking, shopping in local centres, and soaking up the sun on pristine shores. Buritaca provides a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Colombia's natural beauty.
• Mata de Platano: Another gem located close to Santa Marta, Mata de Platano is celebrated for its serene landscapes and vibrant birdwatching opportunities. This village offers a tranquil escape with ample recreational areas where travellers can connect with nature. Peak visitor seasons occur in July and December to January, with guests seeking outdoor adventures and picturesque scenery. The nearby beaches and national parks provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration, making Mata de Platano an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy Colombia's diverse ecosystems.
• Museo Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino: This historic site, situated in the vicinity of Santa Marta, is a must-visit for those interested in culture and education. The Museo Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino showcases the rich history of the area and features beautiful gardens that invite leisurely strolls. Visitors are attracted year-round, with notable peaks in July and December to January, as they seek a blend of outdoor experiences and cultural enrichment. The museum's location near stunning beaches and national parks enhances its appeal, making it a delightful stop for those exploring Santa Marta.

Things to do in Santa Marta

Shopping

For a local shopping experience, visit the Mercado Público de Santa Marta, where you can find fresh produce and handmade crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to the Centro Comercial Ocean Mall, located approximately 16.1km away, offering a variety of shops and dining options.

Recreation

In Santa Marta, the Serenity Spa offers rejuvenating massages and holistic therapies amidst tranquil surroundings. Meanwhile, the Minca Eco Lodge provides yoga sessions in a lush, mountainous setting, inviting you to reconnect with nature while enjoying fresh, organic meals from local sources.

Adventure

Explore the stunning Tayrona National Natural Park, where pristine beaches meet lush jungle trails, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Experience the thrill of paragliding over Santa Marta’s coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Nightlife

In Santa Marta, La Puerta is lively with infectious rhythms and vibrant crowds, while El Bunker draws in those seeking a more laid-back vibe with its cocktails and relaxed atmosphere. The beachfront bars offer stunning views, creating a captivating backdrop for a memorable night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Marta

Santa Marta offers various ways to save on your visit, including free access to attractions like Rodadero and Buritaca Beaches. For transport, consider walking or cycling to keep costs down. Travel during cheaper months like February, September, and November, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals. Tuesdays are generally the least expensive days to stay, while Fridays are the most costly. Use Expedia for last-minute deals and to filter options by budget, ensuring you find the best prices on accommodation and packages.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Marta are February, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Santa Marta about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Marta is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Marta is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save on costs by combining your Santa Marta hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Marta

Santa Marta is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Popular attractions include stunning beaches, picturesque waterfalls, and urban parks, catering to travellers interested in culture and nature. Don't miss the Santa Marta Marina and Masaya Santa Marta for additional activities, ensuring a memorable vacation filled with both relaxation and exploration.

• Old San Juan de Dios Hospital Museum: Explore the rich history of Santa Marta at this charming museum, housed in a former hospital. The museum showcases local culture and heritage, making it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.
• Rodadero Beach: Enjoy the sun and surf at Rodadero Beach, a vibrant destination known for its lively atmosphere. With golden sands and crystal-clear waters, it is an ideal spot for relaxation or engaging in water sports.
• Parque de los Novios: This urban park offers a serene escape amidst the bustling city. Ideal for families, it features green spaces, playgrounds, and charming pathways, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.

Best time to go to Santa Marta

The best time to visit Santa Marta can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Marta falls in May, June, July, August and September. July has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Santa Marta falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Marta

Flying into Santa Marta offers several options, with the nearest major airport being Santa Marta (SMR-Simon Bolivar), located 14.5km from the city centre. Recommended hotels nearby include the Hilton Santa Marta and GHL Relax Hotel Costa Azul, both conveniently accessible from the airport. Alternatively, Cartagena (CTG-Rafael Núñez Intl.) is situated 167.4km away, with excellent accommodations such as the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena and GHL San Lazaro Art Hotel. Barranquilla (BAQ-Ernesto Cortissoz Intl.) is another option, located 74.0km from Santa Marta, featuring hotels like NH Collection Barranquilla Smartsuites Royal, offering various transportation services to the airport.