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Bello Horizonte Beach

4.7
·6k reviews·Santa Marta, Colombia

A beautiful stretch of grey sand on Colombia's Caribbean coast, known for stunning sunsets and Blue Flag certification.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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El cielo En tres  Momentos diferentes  Del día. 🌅

Bello Horizonte Beach

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful stretch of grey sand on Colombia's Caribbean coast, known for stunning sunsets and Blue Flag certification.

4.7
(6k reviews)

"Amazing beach. A little crowded and a lot of salespeople but good vibe and pristine sand and water."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine Sands & Gentle Waves

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

Spectacular Sunsets

Western end of the beach

Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the ocean.

Water Sports Adventures

Water Sports Adventures

Near Irotama Hotel area

Try kayaking or paddleboarding for some fun on the water. Rentals are often available.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Bello Horizonte Beach can get busy, especially during peak season. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy the sun and sand with fewer people. The midday sun can be intense, so pack accordingly!

Getting There & Around

Located just a short drive from Santa Marta's historic center, Bello Horizonte is easily accessible by taxi or local transport. Consider renting a car for more flexibility to explore nearby attractions.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Allí siempre! 🌅🌊 #playa #BelloHorizonte #santamarta #vacaciones #paratiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii #mar
@joselopaba
38.5K likes • 438.1K views

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Don't miss the incredible sunsets! They're a highlight for many visitors. Instagram+2

💧 Bring Your Own Drinks

Vendors are present, but bringing your own water and snacks is recommended. Reddit

Playa bello horizonte #santamarta ##playas #colombia #aventura #turismo #playasdecolombia🏖️
@viajacondanis
36.5K likes • 350.8K views
Bello Horizonte beach, Santa Marta-Colombia🇨🇴
kerwincalabria
4 likes • 203 views

🚗 Easy Access from Santa Marta

Just a 30-minute drive from Santa Marta's historic center. TikTok

🏄‍♀️ Water Sports Fun

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities here. InstagramReddit

BELLO HORIZONTE, COLOMBIA 🇨🇴 • We wanted to go to the beach before vacation’s over, so here we are! At the @zuanabeachresort in Bello Horizonte, just half an hour from Santa Marta. • Buscábamos vacaciones de playa, así que aquí estamos! En el @zuanabeachresort en Bello Horizonte, a sólo media hora de Santa Marta. • #travelinspiration #travelcommunity #viajeros #colombia #santamarta
nicetrip.tips
350 likes • 1.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Don't miss the incredible sunsets! They're a highlight for many visitors. Instagram+2

💧 Bring Your Own Drinks

Vendors are present, but bringing your own water and snacks is recommended. Reddit

🚗 Easy Access from Santa Marta

Just a 30-minute drive from Santa Marta's historic center. TikTok

🏄‍♀️ Water Sports Fun

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities here. InstagramReddit

✈️ Plane Spotting

Watch planes take off and land due to the airport's proximity. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(6k reviews)

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

Pristine sand and water
Amazing sunsets
Blue Flag certified

What People Dislike

Crowded at times
Persistent vendors
Lack of public amenities

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. TikTok+2

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The sand at Bello Horizonte Beach is described as smooth and grey, offering a pleasant texture underfoot. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

You'll encounter various street vendors selling goods and food. While generally not aggressive, they can be persistent. Reddit

Some visitors mention finding good spots with shade, particularly in the area near the Irotama hotel. Otherwise, natural shade is limited. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, vendors do sell drinks on the beach, but bringing your own is often more cost-effective. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. Instagram+2

Watching planes take off and land from the nearby airport provides a unique photographic element. The vibrant sunsets are also a major draw. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

The area near the Irotama hotel is mentioned for its good spots, and the western end of the beach is ideal for sunset shots. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bello Horizonte Beach is a great choice for families. The Blue Flag certification ensures a safe and clean environment for children to play. Instagram While natural shade is limited, some resorts offer shaded areas, and bringing your own umbrella is a good idea. The calm waters (though sometimes with stronger waves) are generally suitable for younger swimmers, and the availability of water sports like paddleboarding can entertain older kids. Instagram

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. TikTok+1 Bringing plenty of snacks and drinks is advisable, as options directly on the beach can be limited and pricier. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

To enjoy Bello Horizonte Beach on a budget, opt for local transport like buses or colectivos instead of taxis. TikTok+1 Bringing your own food and drinks is a significant cost-saver, as vendors and restaurants can add up. Reddit Look for apartment rentals or more basic cabanas rather than high-end resorts. TikTok Visiting during the off-peak season or on weekdays will also likely mean lower prices for accommodation and fewer crowds. Reddit

couples

For couples, Bello Horizonte offers romantic sunset views that are truly spectacular. Instagram+2 Find a quiet spot on the sand, perhaps near the Irotama hotel area for a bit more tranquility, and enjoy the moment. Reddit Consider booking a beachfront apartment or a room with a sea view for a more intimate experience. TikTok The availability of water sports like paddleboarding can also be a fun shared activity. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Blue Flag Certification

Bello Horizonte Beach, specifically the area around the Hotel Zuana Beach Resort, holds the prestigious Blue Flag certification. This international award signifies adherence to high standards in water quality, safety, environmental management, and visitor education. Instagram It's a testament to the beach's commitment to sustainability and providing a top-notch experience for visitors. This certification means you can expect cleaner waters and a well-maintained environment. Instagram

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. Instagram

Accommodation Options

Bello Horizonte offers a range of accommodation, from luxury resorts to apartments and cabanas, catering to various budgets and group sizes. Many properties boast direct beach access or are just a short walk away. TikTok+5 Complexes like 'Sleeping Beach Two' are frequently mentioned for their amenities and sea views. TikTok+1

For those seeking a more private or group-oriented stay, cabanas that can accommodate larger families or groups are available for rent. TikTok+1 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. TikTokInstagram

Activities and Water Sports

Beyond relaxing on the sand, Bello Horizonte Beach is a hub for various water activities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding, with rental points often available, particularly near the Irotama Hotel area. InstagramReddit These activities offer a fun way to explore the coastline and enjoy the Caribbean waters. Instagram

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. TikTok For those interested in boat tours, options for renting speedboats are also advertised, promising a full day of sun, sea, and adventure. Instagram

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