Local Waterfalls & Beaches Near Tayrona National Park

Beyond the famous trails of Tayrona National Park, the surrounding region is home to hidden waterfalls, freshwater pools, and quiet Caribbean beaches known mostly to locals. From refreshing jungle cascades to golden-sand shores, these nearby escapes offer a more intimate way to experience the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta while staying at Finca Barlovento.

Caribbean beach near Santa Marta
Caribbean beach near Santa Marta

Local Beaches Beyond Tayrona

Secluded Caribbean Beaches

Discover stretches of sand just outside Tayrona’s borders, where fewer visitors and wide-open coastlines invite long swims, beachfront restaurants, beach walks, and sunset views.

Caribbean beach near Santa Marta
  • Just a short, scenic journey from our hotel; At Mendihuaca beach & river you can spend your day swimming, eating local seafood at a beachfront restaurants, shopping for artisanal crafts, or for the adventurous, Paddel boarding in the river.

    Please be aware, activites vary based on the current state of the river. Swimming and SUP’s are not available in heavy rain seasons.

  • Ideal for those looking for a place to have an evening drink, Costeño is full of restaurants, hostels and hotels on the beach, each offering a different experience.
    Perfect for an afternoon beer, we recommend taking a walk along the beach and enjoying the atmosphere.
    Looking for some music? Try looking up "Rio Hostal" and seeing what music experiences they may be offering.

    Costeño beach is great for swimming, but it will experience times of the year when the ocean is too big to swim comfortably. Please enter with caution.

  • Discover Palomino, a bohemian town and beach 1 hours drive away. The town is full of artisan crafts and small restuarants. For those who prefer, You can book an afternoon at one of the many beach Clubs.

Waterfalls & Freshwater Pools

Tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, nearby waterfalls provide a refreshing contrast to the coastal heat. Short hikes through tropical forest lead to cool, clear pools—perfect for swimming, relaxing, and reconnecting with nature.

Jungle waterfall near Tayrona National Park Colombia
  • Just 20 Minutes away from the hotel is the Valencia Waterfall. With a 30 minute jungle hike from the parking to the waterfall, this is a beautiful way to experience the Flora and Fauna of our area.

    Depending on the amount of rain we recieved for the season, visitors can swim in multiple layers of pools, but we ask that you use caution when climbing up the waterfall!

    Cost: 12,000 COP per person
    only accepts cash
    parking is available

    Please bring your own food, water and reef safe sunscreen (to protect the fragile ecosystem).

  • Self Guided tour

    Just a short drive from the hotel is the Mendihauca river and her waterfalls the "Pozas Encantadas".
    A perfect place for a swim on a hot day, the waterfall ends in a beautiful pool surrounded by nature. With a 20 minute hike along the river from the parking area, this is a perfect half day trip.

    Cost: 30,000 COP per person
    Only accepts cash
    Parking is available.

    The road conditions vary depending on the amount of rain we have received. We do not recommend going during rainy season (October-November).

    Please bring your own food, water and reef safe sunscreen (to protect the fragile ecosystem).

Freshwater swimming hole Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Jungle waterfall near Tayrona National Park Colombia

Easy Day Trips from Finca Barlovento

Thanks to our location near Santa Marta and Tayrona National Park, many waterfalls and beaches are accessible as half-day or full-day excursions. Our team can advise on:

  • Best times to visit

  • Transportation options

  • Seasonal conditions

  • Combining waterfalls and beaches in one day

Many of these places reward a slower pace—early mornings, weekday visits, and a spirit of exploration. Whether you’re seeking adventure or quiet immersion in nature, these local waterfalls and beaches offer authentic moments away from the crowds.