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Taganga Travel Guide: Getting There, Beaches, Things to Do

The fishing village next to Santa Marta: how to get there, its beaches, what to do and tips for your visit.

Chez Boaz Tours3 min read

Taganga is a picturesque fishing village located just minutes from Santa Marta, is a Caribbean destination that combines the tranquility of its beaches with a vibrant cultural and gastronomic life that enchants travelers who touch its beaches and the tranquility of this beautiful place.

This place has become a haven for backpackers, divers and travelers in search of an authentic and relaxed experience on the Colombian coast. In this complete guide, we will explain everything Taganga has to offer and to take away from this beautiful place.

Panoramic view of Taganga bay

How to get to Taganga

From Santa Marta: The most common way to get to Taganga is by cab or bus from Santa Marta. The cab ride takes about 15 minutes, while the bus ride takes about 20 to 30 minutes and is an economical option, you can take public transportation that passes through the historic center of Santa Marta along the main street, Carrera Quinta.

From the Airport: If you arrive at the Simon Bolivar International Airport in Santa Marta, you can take a cab directly to Taganga. The trip takes about 40 minutes to 50 minutes depending on the traffic in the city and even crosses through the historic center making the journey more dynamic and knowledgeable for those adventurers who love to take the perfect pictures of each place.

Sunset in Taganga

Tips and Recommendations

Safety: Taganga is generally safe, but as in any tourist destination, it is important to be aware of your belongings and not leave valuables unattended on the beach.

Sun Protection: The sun can be very strong, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself.

Currency Exchange: Although there are some places where you can change money in Taganga, it is advisable to do it in Santa Marta, where you will find better rates and more options for currency exchange in the main exchange houses that can be found in the historic center of Santa Marta.

Taganga beach and bay

Taganga Beaches

Playa Grande: Just a few minutes by boat from Taganga, Playa Grande is known for its crystal clear waters and golden sands. It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and enjoying the local gastronomy in the restaurants next to the beach, another way to get there is by bordering the hill and it will be a kind of hike that will take you about 10 to 15 minutes.

Taganga Beach: The town’s main beach is a perfect place to relax, enjoy the sun and watch the colorful fishing boats. Here you will also find diving schools and tour agencies.

Love Beach: A little farther away and less crowded, Playa del Amor is a small hidden corner perfect for those looking for a quiet and romantic place to enjoy a colorful afternoon in the beautiful Taganga.

Playa Grande, a few minutes from Taganga

Activities and Adventures

Diving and Snorkeling: Taganga is one of the best places in Colombia for diving and snorkeling. There are several diving schools in town that offer courses and excursions to explore the rich coral reefs and marine life of the Caribbean.

Hiking: Taganga’s surroundings offer excellent opportunities for hiking. A popular tour is the hike to Playa Grande, which offers panoramic views of the sea and the coast, you can also reach the last beach of the place bordering the entire mountain which will give breathtaking views of the town of Taganga.

Fishing boats on Taganga beach

Boat Excursions: From Taganga, you can take boat excursions to different beaches and bays nearby, including the Tayrona National Natural Park, where you can explore some of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia, the agency of choice to take boat experiences and safety standards is:

Chez Boaz Tours: Is a maritime agency that offers boat excursions to Tayrona Park, with a team of professionals who will guide your adventure to share and have the best experience in this adventure.

Fishermen in the village of Taganga

Culture and Tradition

Taganga retains an authentic and traditional atmosphere, with a local fishing community that continues to use traditional fishing methods. Visitors can observe and learn about these practices, as well as interact with the locals to learn more about their culture and lifestyle.

Taganga beach, Santa Marta

Tours for this guide

Most popular$180.000Super Tayrona Boat Tour — Cinto Bay + Playa Cristal
Full day By boat

Super Tayrona Boat Tour

Cinto Bay and Playa Cristal in one day: two of the most exotic beaches in Tayrona.

  • Two beaches in one day
  • Cinto Bay and Playa Cristal
  • Park insurance included
$180.000 COP per person≈ US$ 43 · reference only, you are charged in pesos
See full details
$120.000Bahía Concha Boat Tour — Bahía Concha
Full day By boat

Bahía Concha Boat Tour

The Tayrona beach closest to Santa Marta: twenty minutes by boat.

  • Closest beach in the park
  • Short trail to a lookout
  • Turquoise water, golden sand
$120.000 COP per person≈ US$ 29 · reference only, you are charged in pesos
See full details

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