Playa Blanca
Backed by verdant mountains and lined with swaying palms, Playa Blanca is a tropical paradise situated just outside of Santa Marta. Go for a swim in the calm waters, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, and relax under a thatched roof palapa for a quieter alternative to El Rodadero Beach.
The Basics
One of the calmer beaches in the Santa Marta region—providing you visit at the right time—Playa Blanca is the place to snorkel, go for a ride on a banana boat, or even speed down a zipline. Adventurous travelers can also hike to the nearby viewpoint for panoramic views over the bay. Most tours to the Rodadero Sea Aquarium and Museum include a visit to Playa Blanca, although you can also combine a Playa Blanca beach day with a journey to mountainous Minca or a ride on a lively chiva rumbera (party bus).
Things to Know Before You Go
The boat ride to Playa Blanca is fast but relatively rough, so plan ahead if you suffer from seasickness.
Take cash to buy snacks and souvenirs from the beach vendors or enjoy a seafood lunch.
Watch out for sea urchins in the waters off Playa Blanca.
Freshly fried fish—which is usually served with plantain and coconut rice—makes for a quintessential Playa Blanca lunch.
Playa Blanca is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
How to Get There
Playa Blanca is accessible by both land and water, with the latter option proving easiest for most visitors. From El Rodadero Beach, small speed boats depart daily for Playa Blanca but the journey can be rough.
When to Get There
Escape the crowds on popular Playa Blanca by visiting midweek or in the afternoon when tour groups depart. Alternatively, go on a weekend to enjoy the beach at its bustling best.
Beaches in Colombia
Playa Blanca is one of the most popular beaches in Santa Marta, but the Colombian Caribbean has plenty of picturesque shoreline to explore. Head into Tayrona National Park for Playa Cristal (Crystal Beach), stop by the other Playa Blanca on Isla Barú, just outside of Cartagena, or get away from it all on the beaches of Capurganá.
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- El Rodadero
- Marine World Aquarium (Mundo Marino Acuario)
- Tayrona Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Tairona)
- Santa Marta Historic Center (Centro Historico de Santa Marta)
- Carlos El Pibe Valderrama Statue
- Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
- Taganga
- Tayrona National Park (Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona)
- Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)
- Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park
- Crystal Beach (Playa Cristal)
- Nabusimake