Best Hotels in Santa Marta Colombia: Where to Stay?

Best Hotels in Santa Marta Colombia

I spent two weeks in Santa Marta at a time when I really needed to slow down. I loved getting lost in its streets, spending time in its restaurants, and discovering the surrounding nature. I’ve already shared the best attractions in the city here.

But what I loved the most was my stay with a Colombian couple who treated me like one of the family. As someone who loves staying with locals, I was thrilled. In this article, I’ll share this recommendation with you.

Additionally, I’ll review the best neighborhoods to stay in and help you choose the perfect accommodation with my selection of the best hotels in Santa Marta Colombia.

This article contains affiliate links 🙂 They earn me a small commission on bookings, but no worries—there’s no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my blog, and enjoy the read!

Best Hotels in Santa Marta Colombia: My Selection by Neighborhoods

Centro histórico
El Rodadero
Taganga
San Pedro de Alejandrino

Santa Marta in a nutshell

Located on the northern coast of Colombia, by the Caribbean Sea, Santa Marta is one of the oldest cities in South America.

With a population of approximately 500,000 and an area of 2,393 km², this port city is renowned for its rich historical heritage and its proximity to natural wonders like Tayrona National Park.

Among the tourists’ favorite neighborhoods are the Centro Histórico, where you can admire colonial buildings; El Rodadero, famous for its beach; and Taganga, a picturesque village popular among divers and travelers seeking tranquility.

Best Hotels in Santa Marta Colombia by neighborhoods

One of the key steps in planning a trip is undoubtedly choosing your accommodation. However, this task can be quite a challenge when visiting a destination for the first time.

Here’s my selection of best hotels in Santa Marta Colombia!

1. Centro Histórico

The Centro Histórico is the colonial and cultural heart of the city. I highly recommend spending at least a few days in this neighborhood during your stay.

Staying in this area allows you to explore the city’s main tourist attractions while enjoying its lively atmosphere.

Here, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. Plus, you’ll be just a few minutes’ walk from the Malecón, a promenade along Santa Marta’s bay that offers delightful sunny strolls.

Best Hotels in Santa Marta Colombia: Centro Histórico

Masaya Santa Marta ($): The ideal option for budget travelers who don’t mind staying in shared dormitories. Located in the heart of Santa Marta, this property offers rooms with a minimalist yet thoughtfully cozy design.

Hotel Boutique Don Pepe ($$$$): Ubicado en el corazón del Centro Histórico, este encantador hotel de estilo clásico es perfecto para parejas en busca de lujo y sofisticación. El toque especial: un spa y una piscina interior para una experiencia aún más relajante.

Alko Hotel Cotona ($$$): This luxury hotel, offering excellent value for money, features an outdoor pool, a bar, a shared lounge, and a garden—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Sana Mar Hostel & Eco-Café ($): This hostel offers pleasant and clean rooms. It’s a perfect option for couples and solo travelers. It also features very affordable dormitories.

What to Do in Centro?

Join an Audio Tour: Stroll through the city guided by the audio tour unveiling the hidden secrets of this coastal gem.
Discover the Santa Marta Cathedral: Appreciate the understated beauty of this historic site, once the resting place of Simón Bolívar.
Stroll through Parque de los Novios: Take in the lively atmosphere of this central park before dining at one of the charming restaurants nearby.
Visit the Gold Museum: Dive into the rich history and culture of the region’s pre-Columbian civilizations.
Taste Fresh Fruit Juices: Stop by the Plazoleta de los Jugos to savor delicious blends of exotic tropical fruits.

2. El Rodadero

El Rodadero is a vibrant modern neighborhood located just a few kilometers from Santa Marta’s city center, renowned for its expansive fine-sand beach.

With a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, and water activities, it has become a top destination for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation.

If you’re looking to enjoy the beach and unwind on a stress-free holiday, El Rodadero is the perfect spot.

Best Hotels in Santa Marta Colombia: El Rodadero

Hotel Casamart Rodadero ($): This cozy hostel is perfect for those seeking affordable accommodations in the vibrant El Rodadero neighborhood. With a garden, lounge, terrace, and bar, it offers plenty of inviting spaces to relax and connect with fellow travelers.

Mantra Hotel Boutique ($$): This hotel strikes the perfect balance between comfort and value, offering an excellent price-quality ratio. Located just 500 meters from El Rodadero Beach, it features a spa, indoor pool, and outdoor pool, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

Hostal Casa Yare ($$): This humble guesthouse offers rooms perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends. The nearest beach is just 700 meters away, providing a convenient location for beach lovers.

Mayva AprtaHotel ($): This clean and spacious aparthotel features family rooms and a sunny terrace. Located just 500 meters from the nearest beach, it offers a comfortable and convenient stay for all guests.

What to Do in Rodadero?

Relax on the Beach: Spread your towel on the fine sand and recharge while soaking up the sun.
Take a Boat Tour: Set sail on a trip to Playa Blanca for breathtaking views and a peaceful escape.
Try Scuba Diving: You can also go snorkeling or enjoy a thrilling jet-ski ride. Water activities are in abundance!
Savor Local Seafood: Sit on the terraces of the neighborhood’s many restaurants and indulge in the freshest seafood.

ALSO READ: 12 Things to Do in Santa Marta

3. Taganga

Taganga is a small fishing village just a few kilometers from Santa Marta, known for its bohemian vibe. Many tourists choose to stay here for a more peaceful atmosphere.

If your goal is to explore the many attractions of Santa Marta, it may not be the best choice.

However, if you’re looking to unwind while enjoying a great selection of tourist offerings, Taganga is an excellent option.

Best Hotels in Santa Marta Colombia: Taganga

Sunset View ($): These simple yet cozy accommodations come with private bathrooms. Some feature a terrace, while others offer beautiful sea views. Perfect for couples seeking a relaxed and intimate stay!

San Sebastian House ($$$): If you’re traveling with family or friends to Taganga, this 5-room accommodation is perfect. It is well-decorated, filled with natural light, and features a pool where you can cool off under the sun.

Vito Hotel Boutique Taganga ($$): This accommodation offers rooms with balconies and stunning mountain views. Comfortable and clean, they are perfect for a relaxing stay for couples!

taganga macabi hostel ($): Travelers on a budget will love staying at this guesthouse, where the dormitories are very affordable. The garden, interior patio, shared kitchen, and picnic area provide perfect spaces to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a social atmosphere.

What to Do in Taganga?

Watch the Sunset: Join the locals in the evening as they gather to admire the vibrant colors of the setting sun.
Swim at Playa Grande: Enjoy the clear waters of this beach, which is cleaner than Playa Taganga.
Buy Fresh Fish: On the main beach, fishermen sell their daily catches, offering a taste of local flavor.
Go Scuba Diving: Take a course at one of the many diving schools in the village for an unforgettable underwater experience.

4. San Pedro Alejandrino

More than just a neighborhood, this is a small area located quite far from the city center. However, the bus will quickly take you to the Santa Marta market, the waterfront promenade, or Taganga.

I stayed here, enjoying a local atmosphere that allowed me to truly immerse myself in the daily life of the residents. You won’t find fancy restaurants or rooftop bars here, but rather small businesses that locals visit regularly.

I stayed with a Colombian couple who were always smiling and treated me like one of their own. Besides being affordable, my room was very comfortable and peaceful.

I absolutely loved this authentic yet vibrant neighborhood, with plenty of shops, bars, restaurants, supermarkets, and pharmacies. Perfect for a long stay!

Best Hotels in Santa Marta Colombia: San Pedro Alejandrino

Casa Feliz Hostal ($): If you’re looking to stay in an authentic neighborhood with locals, this is the perfect place. This charming Colombian couple will make you feel like part of the family! I had the best time here!

Hostal Casa San Pedro ($): This accommodation offers simple rooms that are ideal for couples or solo travelers. It features a solarium and a garden, providing a peaceful space to unwind at the end of the day.

Bright & Modern Flat With Beautiful Views To The Mountains ($): This apartment features a separate bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for more freedom, especially during an extended stay.

What to Do in San Pedro Alejandrino?

Visit Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino: Explore this historic estate where Simón Bolívar spent his final days.
Go Shopping: Like the locals, spend your Saturday or Sunday at the large Buenavista shopping center.

I know finding the perfect place to stay can be a bit tricky when planning a trip, but I hope this article about the best hotels in Santa Marta Colombia helped you.