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Beach · Santa Marta, Magdalena
El Rodadero
The beach neighborhood south of Santa Marta, with buildings, hotels and a sandy shore in a protected bay, generally calm sea, close to the airport.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About El Rodadero
El Rodadero is about 5 km south of downtown Santa Marta, in its own bay, separated from the city by a hill. It is the region's modern beach neighborhood, with apartment buildings and beachfront hotels, restaurants, ice-cream shops and other commerce. The beach has light sand and the sea is generally calm, protected by the bay.
The waterfront has stalls with chairs and umbrellas, vendors and water sports, and it's very busy during Colombian holidays. The boardwalk is good for walking in the late afternoon, when the breeze comes. The Acuario Rodadero, with Caribbean species, is also located in the neighborhood.
Boats leave the beach for nearby beaches, such as Playa Blanca de Santa Marta, in another cove, with calm waters and fish restaurants.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
An afternoon at the beach; a day taking the boat to Playa Blanca.
Best time
In the late afternoon for the boardwalk, or in the morning before the heat. During the December–January holidays and Holy Week, the beach gets crowded.
How to get there
It's about 5 km south of the center and 10 km from the airport. Go by taxi or by city bus along the coastal road.
Tip
For a less crowded sea, take the boat to Playa Blanca, in the neighboring cove. Agree the prices for chairs and tours in advance.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about El Rodadero
Is the sea at El Rodadero calm?
Generally yes, since it lies in a sheltered bay. On windy days it can get rougher.
Is it worth staying in El Rodadero?
For those who want a beach hotel near the airport. The historic center is about a 15-minute taxi ride away.
What is Playa Blanca of Santa Marta?
A beach in a cove next to El Rodadero, with calm water, reached by launch in a few minutes.