Marjolein Dilven
Curious to learn about one of Colombia’s most beautiful and popular beaches? Look no further! This article will walk you through some key information about the wondrous Cabo San Juan, Colombia.
El Cabo San Juan is an exquisite tropical paradise located in the Tayrona National Park, Colombia, along the northeast coast of the Caribbean Sea. This beach is touted as the most beautiful beach in Colombia and is one of the main reasons why locals and tourists love to visit Parque Tayrona.
The magical place offers breathtaking views of Tayrona Park, a white sandy beach, huge palms, a clear blue sea, and lush jungles. Visiting Cabo San Juan can be the perfect one-day trip outside Santa Marta, or you can camp on the beach in the famous camp zone at Cabo San Juan.
But when is the best time to visit Colombia so you may maximize the vacation you so deserve?
You will find complete details on how to get to the beach, what amazing things you can do and where you can stay at Cabo San Juan. Learn all that and plan your trip itinerary well through this helpful guide.
How To Get to Cabo San Juan, Colombia?
There are 2 options to get to Cabo San Juan. Let’s have a look.
Hike Through the Tayrona National Park
Cabo San Juan is located in the Tayrona National Park.
To get to the beach, you can hike through the park along the coastline. If you are on a day trip, you can book a private tour, including hiking through the park with a guide to Cabo San Juan beach.
If you want to visit the park independently, you can catch a bus from Santa Marta to the park. Buses leave the Santa Marta main market for Tayrona every 30 minutes from 8 am and a one-way ticket costs around 8,000 Colombian pesos or 1.80 US dollars. The bus will take around an hour to get to the main parking area of the Tayrona National Park.
If you are traveling with a group, you can pool in and hire a taxi or any form of private transport. The taxi may cost you around 80,000 COP ($18).
The park has 2 entrances; the main entrance is El Zaino, and a smaller entrance is called Calabozo. The entrance time to the park is 8 am, and the exit time is 5 pm. The entry ticket to the park during peak season is around 68,500 COP ($15.40), while in low season, the ticket price is around 57,500 COP ($13).
In addition to the entry fee, you also need to pay a mandatory park insurance fee at the park entrance, which is around 10,000 COP ($2.25). The ticket price does not include the cost of camping or other forms of accommodation. You will need your passport or passport picture on your phone to purchase the ticket.
Once inside the park, you can hike to Cabo San Juan, which may take around 2 hours if you enter from El Zaino.
Ride a Boat From Taganga
The second route is by boat from the fishing village of Taganga. Boats travel to various locations in Tayrona Park every day. The journey to Cabo San Juan will take 1 hour, and a one-way trip will cost around 150,000 COP ($34) per person, excluding the entrance fee to the park.
The boat tour from Taganga starts at 10 am and ends at 5 pm, so you have ample time to explore the beach if you wish to return to the village at the end of the day.
10 Best Things To Do in Cabo San Juan, Colombia
While the beach is beautiful and spending time there is a treat in itself, here are a few ideas on what fun things you can do at Cabo San Juan.
1. Hiking to Cabo San Juan
Hiking to Cabo San Juan is one of the most popular tourist activities in Tayrona National Park. It takes almost 2 hours to reach the destination from the El Zaino entrance and 3.5 hours from El Calabazo. You will get to see wildlife during the excursion.
It is recommended to stop and rest in between for a while and take water breaks. The weather can get pretty humid, and you will sweat quite a lot.
If you are not up to hiking to the beach, you can ride a horse to get there, which is a different kind of adventure.
2. Exploring the Tayrona National Park
When at Cabo San Juan, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the lush jungles of the Tayrona National Park and observe the unique wildlife or watch different species of unique birds.
Tayrona National Park is home to some rare wildlife species, including the cotton-top tamarin. The park also houses some of the rarest birds, including hummingbirds and blue-headed parrots.
Remember to take your camera along to capture the sightings.
3. Swimming
Cabo San Juan is one of the safest beaches in Tayrona for swimming. Besides its beauty, safety also makes this beach popular among tourists. The beach is in the form of a semi-sheltered inlet with calm and clear waters, so you are not exposed to currents.
If you know how to swim and are fond of the activity, swimming along the Cabo San Juan will be a treat. A lifeguard is always on duty, and a safety net is also present, but it is important to be cautious when you are in the water.
4. Snorkeling
The water in the area is not only perfect for swimming but also a great place for snorkeling. You will find the water warm and not too salty, perfect for underwater sightseeing.
Since the water is crystal clear, you may be able to see beautiful marine life and coral reefs in the area.
5. Sunbathing
If you feel tired from all the hiking or want to escape the crowds, simply lounge on the white sand beach and rest while overlooking the tranquil water.
Remember to bring a towel to lie on or get a hammock from the beach. Also, do not forget to put on sunscreen.
6. Enjoy Coconut Water
Local vendors may sell fresh coconut water along the beach and hiking trails. Coconut palms abundantly outline the Tayrona National Park beaches. While you cannot climb up and get coconut on your own, you can buy one from hawkers.
The water is slightly sweet and refreshing, and you will enjoy it after hiking or swimming.
7. Camping
Camping at Cabo San Juan is one of the most popular tourist activities at Tayrona National Park. It’s also one of the great ways to enjoy the beautiful beach.
The campsite is quite vast, and you will find various accommodations such as:
- Sleep in a hammock
- You can get a hammock in the main camping area. One hammock for a night will cost around 40,000 COP ($9).
- You can get a hammock on the watchtower. The rates for the watchtower are a little higher at 50,000 COP ($11) for a hammock per night.
- Sleep in a tent
- You can bring your own tent and just pay for the campsite. It will cost around 20,000 COP ($4.50).
- You can get a tent at the campsite. A tent for 1 person will cost 40,000 COP ($9), and for 2 people, it will cost 80,000 COP ($18) per night.
- Sleep in a private cabin
- There are only 2 cabins available in the area. A cabin can accommodate 2 people, costing 200,000 COP ($45) per night.
There is also a restaurant and a few shops, so you do not have to worry about food or any urgent requirement. However, if you plan to sleep in a hammock, bring insect repellent and a mosquito net to spend the night comfortably.
The site also offers basic toilet facilities; you must pay 1,000 COP ($0.22) to use them. You also have an outdoor shower available.
Make sure to take enough cash with you, as there are no ATMs in the Tayrona National Park. When I went to the place, I brought too little money and had to return earlier than I wanted, so I will leave this little tip for you.
8. Watch the Sunrise
After a night out in the camp, you will see the most amazing and picturesque sunrise. You can also go deep into the forest and find an elevated point to watch the sunrise.
However, the view from the beach is mesmerizing as the sun slowly rises over the water cascading hues of pink and yellow around.
9. Stay in a Forest Cabin
If you are in Tayrona for more than one night or want to enjoy a bit of the tropical forest, you can stay in a hut in the jungle instead of camping on the beach.
Staying the night in the wilderness among the rarest species is bound to be an unforgettable adventure, especially for nature lovers.
10. Explore Other Beaches
From Cabo San Juan, you can explore other beaches in the Parque Tayrona. When you hike from the park entrance toward Cabo San Juan, you may come across several beaches. Arrecifes beach is beautiful, but it’s not safe for swimming.
The second beach, La-Piscina, which comes after a 50-minute hike from Arrecifes, is safe for swimming and not as crowded as Cabo. These turquoise beaches also have fincas where you can stay if you do not want to stay in Cabo San Juan.
Where To Stay in Cabo San Juan, Colombia?
As suggested earlier, the best way to enjoy your time in Cabo San Juan is to camp at the beach. You can stay in a hammock on the watchtower or a tent. You can also stay in a private cabin.
If you do not wish to camp, here are a few accommodation options.
Ecohabs
Ecohabs Tequendama Playa Cañaveral offers one of the most comfortable stays in Tayrona Park. It is the best place to stay if you want to enjoy a beachfront view, located only a minute away from the beach. The property features bungalows that can easily accommodate 4 people at a time.
You can easily explore other parts of the Parque Tayrona from here and enjoy other activities like birdwatching, hiking to the ancient city, or exploring other beaches.
The cost for a night in a suite is 724,000 COP ($167).
Ecolodge Playa Brava Teyumakke
Ecolodge Playa Brava Teyumakke is located on the Playa Brava, almost 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometers) from Cabo San Juan and 2.4 miles (3.9 km) from La Piscina. The beach is only 300 feet away.
The property features a restaurant as well.
Ideal for a beach vacation, Ecolodge has a family bungalow that you can book for around 252,000 COP ($57) per night.
Mirador del Parque
Mirador del Parque is located near El Zaino and features a bar, restaurant, and garden.
Room rates are quite reasonable; a basic double room costs 143,000 COP ($33) per night. You can get a bunk bed in a dormitory too.
For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.
Tips for Enjoying Your Stay in Cabo San Juan, Colombia
If you plan to camp at Cabo San Juan, it is best to spend one-night camping, so you have sufficient time to enjoy the lovely beach and idyllic surrounding area.
Another important point to remember is that the hammocks on the watchtower and the private cabins are available in limited numbers because it’s popular with tourists. So, if you want to stay in either of these, it is best to book in advance.
Here are other tips to consider when you visit Cabo San Juan:
- There are no ATMs in the area, so bring sufficient cash to last the trip.
- Remember to pack swimming gear, flip-flops for the beach, and sturdy boots if you plan to hike through the muddy trails.
- Bring along sunscreen, a hat, and a drying towel.
- If you plan to camp, pack bug spray and lotion, and a mosquito net.
- Use a locker to take care of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas.
- Bring along bottled water or a water purifier.
- Getting vaccinated for yellow fever is also recommended before coming to Tayrona Park.
How To Stay Safe In Cabo San Juan, Colombia
When traveling in Cabo San Juan, Colombia, prioritize safety by choosing reputable accommodations and avoiding isolated areas, especially after dark. Keep your belongings secure and stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places. Stay updated on local safety advisories and trust your instincts if you feel uncomfortable in any situation.
Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!
Frequently Asked Questions – Cabo San Juan, Colombia
Is It Safe To Travel to Cabo San Juan, Colombia?
Yes, it is quite safe to travel to Cabo San Juan. The area is safe for tourists.
Moreover, the water is also safe for swimming.
What Is Cabo San Juan, Colombia, Known For?
Cabo San Juan is among the most beautiful beaches in Colombia and the most attractive place to visit in the Tayrona National Park. Camping on the beach is a popular tourist activity.
Is Cabo San Juan, Colombia Expensive?
If we consider the entrance fee to Tayrona Park, it is slightly expensive.
However, most tourists consider the trip to Cabo San Juan worth the price as visiting the park and camping is a unique and exciting adventure.
Can You Drink Water in Cabo San Juan?
It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Cabo San Juan. Remember to use bottled water or bring a water purifier along.
Conclusion – Cabo San Juan, Colombia
With this overview of Cabo San Juan, you can make the most of your stay in this beach heaven, the best beach in Tayrona National Park, if not in all of Colombia.
Whatever you choose to do in this relaxing destination, you won’t be disappointed with so much beauty to experience.
Cabo San Juan will be well worth the visit. Have a fantastic time!
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Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter
Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.