Colombia has an excellent selection of paradisiacal beaches. Among the best-known are San Andrés and Providencia, Cartagena, and Santa Marta. However, there are some hidden gems that may not be on tourists' radar, but are undoubtedly worth discovering for their natural beauty, tranquility, and authenticity.
We can begin the tour by mentioning Tolú and Coveñas , two beaches located in the Gulf of Morrosquillo, in the Sucre region, in the north of the country. With only 20 km between them, a trip to these places of interest is practically a must for all travelers. They are also known as the "Beach Resort of Shaded Silver Beaches" due to their crystal-clear, shallow waters and the palm trees that surround them. For this reason, it is an excellent destination for families with children, as the first 50 meters upon entering the sea, the water barely reaches their knees. Due to their proximity to the point where the Caribbean Sea separates from the Ciénaga de la Caimanera, they are surrounded by spectacular biodiversity, which also provides different shades of green to the sea thanks to the surrounding vegetation. Among the most recommended experiences in the area are a walk through the town of Santiago de Tolú, a canoe trip through the wonderful Ciénaga de la Caimanera Nature Reserve, and water sports such as surfing and windsurfing.
Another destination that deserves greater recognition is Tintipán Island , the largest in the San Bernardo Archipelago, located 50 km southwest of Cartagena in the Caribbean Sea. This paradise is part of the Islas Corales del Rosario National Natural Park, a true underwater sanctuary home to coral reefs, wetlands, mangroves, rocky coastlines, seagrass beds, and white-sand beaches. The variety of ecosystems makes Tintipán a haven of unique biodiversity, both in terms of flora and fauna, which can be clearly seen through its crystalline waters. Among the main activities to enjoy in the area are scuba diving to discover the natural richness of the environment, a night tour to observe bioluminescent plankton, and a relaxing break on its tranquil beaches.
Located in the north of the country, in the Chocó region, Capurganá is another hidden beach with a unique charm. Access is difficult, as it can only be reached by sea or air from the city of Medellín. Its landscape is a treasure nestled between a bay and a dense tropical rainforest, ideal for a relaxing vacation. It was once a land inhabited by the Cuna indigenous community. For this reason, the name of this beach means "Land of Chili Peppers" in their native language. The legacy of this culture lives on in the colorful woven handicrafts called molas, which are sold in the region. Some of the destination's must-do activities include an excursion to the most important virgin beach in the area, La Caleta; turtle watching at Caná; and an ecological hike to the El Cielo nature reserve.