Taganga, Colombia – What to do and where to eat & stay!
Northern Colombia is famously beautiful. Turquoise blue waters, incredible national parks and historic towns. It’s on most travellers must do list when visiting the country and for good reason. Close to Tayrona National Park and just a short drive from Santa Marta, the town of Taganga is a popular backpacking spot. When I visited Taganga I only intended to stay a couple of nights and ended up staying a week. It’s easy to lean into the relaxation, party vibes and watersports of Taganga and you will probably come across a few people who had a short visit turn into years.
The formerly sleepy fishing village of Taganga has grown a lot in the last few years and it’s fast becoming an addition on the must visit list for backpackers and hippy-esque travellers. Taganga is somewhere where the days disappear easily, but that being said, there are so many activities and adventurous days out to be had right from the beach. If you’re planning a trip to Taganga, Colombia here’s everything you need to know about where to stay, what to do, and where to eat in this Caribbean paradise.
How to get to Taganga from Santa Marta
To take a bus to Taganga, you need to get to 5th Avenue in Santa Marta’s Centro Historic or downtown. Wait for one of the blue buses with a ‘Kra 11 Taganga’ sign. The bus ticket cost around 1.800 Cop.
Otherwise it’s easy to get a taxi the 7km to Taganga, probably costing around 12,000, but this isn’t a set price.
Where to Stay in Taganga
When I first visited Taganga I stayed in a hut surrounded by geese in the garden of someone’s cottage – however times have changed and now there is a selection of fairly nice accommodation with hostels, hotels and airbnbs, some even with pools and on site restaurants.
Accommodation in Taganga now offers something for every type of traveller, from budget-conscious backpackers to those looking for more comfortable and luxurious stays.
Hotel Bahia Taganga features an outdoor swimming pool, a sundeck with views of the surroundings, and a spa. It has a slightly elevated view of the water meaning you’re slightly away from the evening noise.
If you’re looking where to stay in Taganga, Colombia and want a more tranquil experience, Casa de Felipe Hostel is another great option. Tucked away from the main strip, this hostel is set within lush gardens and offers both dorms and private rooms. It has an onsite restaurant serving excellent breakfast and dinner, a laid-back vibe, and panoramic views of the bay from its rooftop terrace.
If you prefer boutique-style accommodations, Ballena Azul Hotel is a pretty choice with white washed walls. Located just a short walk from the beach, it features a rooftop bar with ocean views and easy access for snorkelling and diving.
What to Do in Taganga Colombia
Taganga’s appeal lies not just in its beauty but also in the range of activities it offers. Whether you’re into water sports, adventure, or simply unwinding by the beach, Taganga Colombia has something for everyone.
1. Scuba Diving
Taganga is one of the best places in Colombia to learn how to scuba dive, thanks to its affordable PADI certification courses and diverse marine life. Dive operators like Poseidon Dive Center and Ocean Lovers offer courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels. The nearby Tayrona National Park is home to some of the most impressive dive sites in the area, with warm waters and diverse marine ecosystems featuring colourful corals, turtles, and an array of fish species.
For those who are already certified, Taganga also offers night dives, allowing you to witness nocturnal marine life and bioluminescent waters under the stars.
2. Tayrona National Park by Boat
While many visitors travel to Tayrona National Park from Santa Marta, you can skip the crowds and take a direct boat from Taganga Beach. These boats depart daily and will drop you off at some of the park’s most beautiful beaches, like Cabo San Juan. With its crystal-clear waters and lush jungle backdrop, Tayrona is a must-visit for nature lovers. Just be prepared for a bumpy ride, as the sea can get choppy!
3. Fishing Trips with Local Fishermen
If you’re an angler or just curious about the local fishing culture, Taganga offers deep-sea fishing trips led by experienced fishermen. These excursions, typically departing early in the morning, can take you to prime spots along the coast where you can catch red snapper, barracuda, and other local species.
Usually starting early around 6 or 630 in the morning, local fisherman can be hired to take out groups of up to 6 to head round the coast to the edge of the national park. The local fisherman are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable, knowing exact areas that you can snare some red snapper and even giant barracuda. Indeed it’s a fun sight to sit on the beach in the late afternoon and see the boats coming up in young boys carrying huge catches on their shoulders and running to sell them to nearby restaurants.
4. Taganga Nightlife
Taganga, Colombia is known for its lively party scene. On weekends, the town comes alive with music, dancing, and beachside bars. If you’re looking for a bigger night out, head to El Mirador, a cliffside club with panoramic views of the bay. This venue is famous for its mix of reggaeton, salsa, and Latin pop and parties go on til the very early hours. If you prefer a more laid-back vibe, there are several cocktail bars along the beach where you can have a bit more of a chill evening.
Where to Eat
For such a small settlement, has quite the choice of bars and places to eat. The most popular dining spots and bars are along the main strip next the water, with a range of fish restaurants and simple cocktail bars to choose from. However if you venture off the main street there are plenty of other cafes and shops that you might not initially have spotted.
One of the highlights of Taganga is its fresh, delicious food. Seafood is a staple here, and many of the restaurants serve up the day’s catch, prepared in traditional Caribbean style. But if you’re looking for something different, there are plenty of other options too.
1. Fatto in casa Taganga
Fatto is a fun restaurant with outdoor seating serving homemade pizza and fresh pasta as well as a selection of pastries and bread. They’re slightly off the beach front and they often have live music and a fun atmosphere. There are a few choices of wine and some great cocktails too!
Cl. 18 #1-39, Taganga
2. Bitacora Restaurant
Bitacora Restaurant, located along the main beachfront strip is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including ceviche and grilled fish. The prices are good and they often have live musical performances. It’s located right on the beach meaning if you head there at dusk you’ll get a beautiful sunset while you have your food.
Carrera 1 # 17-13
3. Babaganoush
If you’re craving a mix of international and Mediterranean cuisine, Babaganoush is a fantastic option. It’s situated on a hillside overlooking the bay and directly above the Tyrona Dive Center meaning you’ll get lovely sunset views, making it a great spot for dinner or drinks. The menu includes a range of vegetarian, seafood, and meat options using local ingredients.
Piso 3 Centro de Buceo Tayrona
Final Thoughts
Despite its increasing popularity, Taganga has retained its small-town charm, meaning it’s a brilliant destination for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a bit of relaxation by the Caribbean Sea.
If you’re headed to northern Colombia, be sure to add Taganga to your list – you won’t regret it!
If you’re looking for spend longer in Colombia check out this 3 week Colombia itinerary.
