
Bello Horizonte Beach
A beautiful stretch of grey sand on Colombia's Caribbean coast, known for stunning sunsets and Blue Flag certification.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Bello Horizonte Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful stretch of grey sand on Colombia's Caribbean coast, known for stunning sunsets and Blue Flag certification.
"Amazing beach. A little crowded and a lot of salespeople but good vibe and pristine sand and water."

🌅 Catch the Sunset
Don't miss the incredible sunsets! They're a highlight for many visitors.
💧 Bring Your Own Drinks
Vendors are present, but bringing your own water and snacks is recommended.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine Sands & Gentle Waves
Main beach area
Enjoy the smooth, grey sand and clear waters. Perfect for a relaxing day by the Caribbean Sea.

Spectacular Sunsets
Western end of the beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the ocean.

Water Sports Adventures
Near Irotama Hotel area
Try kayaking or paddleboarding for some fun on the water. Rentals are often available.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Don't miss the incredible sunsets! They're a highlight for many visitors.
💧 Bring Your Own Drinks
Vendors are present, but bringing your own water and snacks is recommended.
🚗 Easy Access from Santa Marta
Just a 30-minute drive from Santa Marta's historic center.
🏄♀️ Water Sports Fun
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities here.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Don't miss the incredible sunsets! They're a highlight for many visitors.
💧 Bring Your Own Drinks
Vendors are present, but bringing your own water and snacks is recommended.
🚗 Easy Access from Santa Marta
Just a 30-minute drive from Santa Marta's historic center.
🏄♀️ Water Sports Fun
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities here.
✈️ Plane Spotting
Watch planes take off and land due to the airport's proximity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bello Horizonte Beach is praised for its smooth, grey sand and beautiful sunsets, offering a relaxing atmosphere. While it can get a bit crowded with persistent vendors, the overall vibe is good, and the water quality is excellent, highlighted by its Blue Flag certification. Some visitors note the lack of public amenities like showers and natural shade.
"Nice beach to spend a day at. Smooth sand, waves are a tad stronger depending on the time of the day"
Jonathan Kam
"Amazing beach. A little crowded and a lot of salespeople but good vibe and pristine sand and water"
Lina Torres
"Just amazing!!! Nice beach and you can find water sports like kayak and paddle board! Don’t miss the amazing sunsets"
Liliana Escobar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bello Horizonte Beach is conveniently located about 30 minutes from Santa Marta's historic center. You can easily reach it by taxi or local bus. Some visitors also opt for motorcycle taxis for a quicker ride.
Yes, Bello Horizonte Beach is very close to Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR). You can even see planes taking off and landing from the beach, which is a unique experience for some visitors.
Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore more of the Santa Marta region. It offers flexibility, though parking availability might vary, especially during peak times.
Taxis are readily available and a convenient way to travel between Bello Horizonte and other Santa Marta attractions like El Rodadero or the historic center. Negotiate fares beforehand.
Yes, local buses and colectivos (shared vans) frequently run along the coastal road, providing an affordable way to reach Bello Horizonte Beach from Santa Marta.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bello Horizonte Beach is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access the sand and water. You only pay for services like chair rentals or food and drinks.
As a public beach, Bello Horizonte is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, specific facilities like restaurants or hotels might have their own operating hours.
It's highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season or holidays, as hotels and rental apartments can fill up quickly.
Generally, there are no major restrictions, but it's always good practice to respect the environment, avoid littering, and be mindful of local customs. Some areas might have specific rules if they are part of private resorts.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. This is a common practice and can help save money.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The sand at Bello Horizonte Beach is described as smooth and grey, offering a pleasant texture underfoot.
Public restrooms and showers are noted as being a missing amenity by some visitors, so it's advisable to check with nearby establishments or plan accordingly.
The beach can get a little crowded, especially during peak times and weekends. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can provide a more relaxed experience.
You'll encounter various street vendors selling goods and food. While generally not aggressive, they can be persistent.
Some visitors mention finding good spots with shade, particularly in the area near the Irotama hotel. Otherwise, natural shade is limited.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While direct beach access restaurants might be limited, there are establishments within nearby hotels and resorts, such as the Zuanã Beach Resort, that offer dining options.
You can find a range of local Colombian cuisine, seafood, and international dishes at restaurants in the hotels and surrounding areas. Street vendors also offer snacks and drinks.
It depends on your preference and budget. Restaurants offer a more comfortable dining experience, while vendors provide quick and affordable options. Bringing your own food is also a popular choice.
Yes, vendors do sell drinks on the beach, but bringing your own is often more cost-effective.
Many of the resorts and hotels in the area cater to families and offer diverse menus. Exploring options within complexes like Sleeping Beach Two can be a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The clear blue waters and sandy shores are also great subjects during the day.
Watching planes take off and land from the nearby airport provides a unique photographic element. The vibrant sunsets are also a major draw.
Drone usage might be subject to regulations, especially near the airport. It's advisable to check local rules before flying. Some drone footage of the area is available.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant planes or wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water shots.
The area near the Irotama hotel is mentioned for its good spots, and the western end of the beach is ideal for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying in resorts or apartments that offer family-friendly amenities like pools and playgrounds. Many rental properties in complexes like 'Sleeping Beach Two' are well-equipped for families. Bringing plenty of snacks and drinks is advisable, as options directly on the beach can be limited and pricier.
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Blue Flag Certification
This distinction is a significant draw for eco-conscious travelers and families looking for a safe and pristine beach destination. The continuous efforts by resorts and local authorities ensure that Bello Horizonte remains a benchmark for beach quality in Colombia.
Accommodation Options
For those seeking a more private or group-oriented stay, cabanas that can accommodate larger families or groups are available for rent. These often come with shared social areas and are located within a few blocks of the beach. Real estate agencies also list apartments for sale or rent in the area, indicating a growing residential and tourist appeal.
Activities and Water Sports
Some travelers also mention the unique experience of watching planes take off and land from the nearby airport, adding an unusual element to the beach day. For those interested in boat tours, options for renting speedboats are also advertised, promising a full day of sun, sea, and adventure.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit