Palomino Beach
A bohemian surf town on Colombia's Caribbean coast, known for river tubing, stunning sunsets, and a laid-back vibe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer vibes
Palomino Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bohemian surf town on Colombia's Caribbean coast, known for river tubing, stunning sunsets, and a laid-back vibe.
"Palomino is the hippie beach town of my dreams!"
Tubing Adventure Essentials
Book tubing trips through your hostel or local operators for around $12 USD . Bring a dry bag for your phone and valuables! :water_wave:
Cash is King
Many places in Palomino prefer cash, so carry Colombian Pesos. ATMs can be scarce. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tubing Down the Palomino River
Palomino River
Float gently down the river, surrounded by lush jungle, to where it meets the Caribbean Sea. Pure bliss!
Palomino Beach Sunsets
Palomino Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Caribbean Sea. A truly magical experience.
Relaxed Beach Town Atmosphere
Palomino Village
Soak in the bohemian, hippie beach town vibe, perfect for unwinding and disconnecting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vibe, Pack Accordingly
Tides and Beach Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tubing Adventure Essentials
Book tubing trips through your hostel or local operators for around $12 USD.
Cash is King
Many places in Palomino prefer cash, so carry Colombian Pesos. ATMs can be scarce. :moneywithwings:
Embrace the Hippie Vibe
Palomino is a chill, bohemian town. Relax, disconnect, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. :palm_tree:
Sun Protection is Key
The Caribbean sun is strong! Use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
Tubing Adventure Essentials
Book tubing trips through your hostel or local operators for around $12 USD.
Cash is King
Many places in Palomino prefer cash, so carry Colombian Pesos. ATMs can be scarce. :moneywithwings:
Embrace the Hippie Vibe
Palomino is a chill, bohemian town. Relax, disconnect, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. :palm_tree:
Sun Protection is Key
The Caribbean sun is strong! Use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated. :sunwithface:
Explore Beyond the Main Beach
Seek out quieter spots between the river and village for a more untouched beach experience. :shell:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Palomino is loved for its laid-back, bohemian vibe and the unique experience of tubing down the river. Many appreciate the beautiful sunsets and the escape from crowded tourist spots. However, some visitors note that beach conditions can be affected by tides, and litter can be an issue in certain areas, leading to a decline in its pristine beauty.
"I don't understand why this is a major tourist area - there is basically no beach as others have mentioned and the little areas there are have no or half dead vegetation that resembles more a trash site than a beach. Pair that with masses of people who just want to drink and party and you have a place that's not for me. Anyone who finds this beach beautiful has my sympathies as they clearly never have seen a beautiful beach before. The one cool thing is that when you walk around in town you may see some tropical birds. Other than that badly maintained dirt roads and not anything resembling Colombian culture. It's more like a springbreak destination or Mallorca..."
Suuz K
"the beach is very much declining, so not a lot of space, and sadly theres a lot of rubbish.
but theres some spots inbetween the river/coco beach and palomino village which people have not touched under the palmtrees whitout any houses or anything (pictured). about 10-15 minutes walk from palomino village."
Julia Huxley
"A mix a mountain jungle beauty and the ocean.. the ocean isn’t as blue because it’s more of a surf beach and the waves kick up the sand"
Zac Bodell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palomino is about 1.5 hours from Santa Marta. You can take a bus from the Santa Marta bus terminal for a budget-friendly option. Taxis or private transfers are also available for more convenience.
Getting to Palomino is relatively straightforward. Buses run frequently from Santa Marta, and the journey offers scenic views of the Colombian coast. The final stretch into town can be on unpaved roads.
For budget travelers, buses are the most common and affordable method. If you prefer comfort and speed, consider a taxi or pre-booked shuttle service.
No, there are no direct flights to Palomino. The nearest major airport is Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR) in Santa Marta. From there, you'll need to take a bus or taxi to Palomino.
The main road leading to Palomino is generally paved, but the roads within the town itself are often unpaved and can be in poor condition, especially after rain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there are no entrance fees for Palomino Beach itself. However, some hotels or beach clubs might have day-use fees or minimum consumption requirements.
Palomino Beach is a public space and is accessible at all hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
Tubing down the Palomino River is a popular activity that can be booked through hostels or local tour operators. It's advisable to book this a day in advance, especially during peak season.
Tubing trips typically cost around 50,000 COP (approximately $12 USD) and can be booked through your accommodation or local tour agencies.
While the beach is free, some beachfront establishments like hotels or beach clubs may charge a day-use fee or have a minimum spend requirement if you're not a guest.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The top activities include tubing down the Palomino River, enjoying the beach sunsets, and soaking in the town's bohemian vibe.
Palomino is known as a surf town, with waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. You can find surf schools and board rentals along the beach.
The beach can be affected by tides, sometimes reducing space and clarity. However, it offers a unique mix of jungle beauty and the Caribbean Sea, with surf-friendly waves.
Yes, Palomino is ideal for relaxation. Many hostels and hotels offer tranquil spaces, and you can find quiet spots on the beach away from the main areas.
You might spot various tropical birds while walking around town. The surrounding jungle also hosts diverse flora and fauna.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Palomino offers a range of dining options, from local Colombian Caribbean cuisine to international dishes. Many restaurants focus on fresh seafood and tropical fruits.+1
Yes, several restaurants, like Restaurante Sierra Bonita, offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always good to ask about plant-based choices.
Restaurante Sierra Bonita is a favorite for its affordable prices and Caribbean dishes. Other popular spots include those near Coco Beach and along Calle Alegre.
Dining can be quite affordable, especially at local eateries. Restaurante Sierra Bonita is noted for its reasonable prices. However, some beachfront restaurants may be pricier.
Absolutely! Being a coastal town, Palomino offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh, locally caught seafood prepared in various delicious ways.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunsets over the beach, the lush jungle scenery during river tubing,
and the vibrant street art and bohemian architecture in town. Drone shots can offer unique perspectives.
Yes, Palomino offers diverse landscapes, from the Caribbean coastline and river to the surrounding tropical greenery. The interplay of light and shadow, especially during sunrise and sunset, is ideal for photography.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant colors of the town.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography in public areas. However, always be respectful when photographing people and ask for permission if necessary.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and town shots, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing wildlife. A waterproof camera or protective case is recommended for beach and river activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many hostels and hotels, like Naio Palomino,💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Taking local buses from Santa Marta is the most economical way to reach Palomino.💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
or Coco Beach Palomino Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Palomino River Tubing Experience
The river eventually meets the Caribbean Sea, providing a unique dual-environment experience as you drift towards the ocean.Most tubing tours are booked through hostels or local operators, often including transportation and the tube rental. Prices are generally affordable, around $12 USD.
It's highly recommended to bring a dry bag to protect your phone and other valuables from water. The entire experience is about relaxation and immersion in nature, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.Accommodation Options in Palomino
Kawabonga Hostel, and Hostal Grand Park Palomino,For those seeking a more comfortable stay, hotels like Palmares Beach
and Makao Beach Hotel offer beachfront access and stunning ocean views. Some accommodations, like Naio Palomino Understanding Palomino's Beach Dynamics
Despite these conditions, the beach offers a unique charm. The juxtaposition of the jungle-clad Sierra Nevada mountains meeting the sea creates a dramatic backdrop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit