Playa Inca Inca: A Tranquil Escape in Santa Marta
Discover Playa Inca Inca: A serene beach escape with clear waters, scenic hikes, and tranquil Caribbean vibes near Santa Marta, Colombia.
Playa Inca Inca, a hidden gem on Colombia's Caribbean coast in the Santa Marta region, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist beaches. This small, beautiful beach is characterized by its soft, white sand and crystal-clear, tepid waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. The beach is surrounded by lush hills and trees, providing a picturesque backdrop and a sense of seclusion. Instead of the usual crowded beaches filled with tents, Playa Inca Inca offers natural-looking cabana-umbrellas made of grass, enhancing the tropical paradise vibe. A single restaurant provides meals and drinks, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere. Getting to Playa Inca Inca is part of the adventure. You can reach it by hiking along well-marked paths, offering stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscapes. Alternatively, a short boat ride from El Rodadero provides a panoramic sea view. The calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with opportunities to explore marine life. Visitors should bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for hiking. Playa Inca Inca is perfect for those seeking a peaceful beach experience, surrounded by natural beauty and away from the crowds.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for the hike to protect your soles and ankles from loose rocks.
- Bring plenty of sunscreen, as you'll be exposed to the sun, especially while hiking.
- Carry enough cash, as the restaurant and umbrella rentals are unlikely to accept card payments.
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the beach with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
A brief summary to Playa Inca Inca
- Santa Marta, Magdalena, CO
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Santa Marta, take a public bus towards Rodadero. Buses like Aeropuerto, Don Jaca, Rodadero-Gaira, or La 30-Gaira will drop you off in El Rodadero for approximately $2,500 - $2,600 COP. From Rodadero, head to the 'Canal de las Iguanas' at Carrera 1 with Calle 6 to find transport options to the beach. Then take a boat from El Rodadero to Playa Inca Inca. The boat trip costs approximately $25,000 COP round trip.
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Taxi
Take a taxi from anywhere in Santa Marta to El Rodadero. The taxi fare will range from $10,000 to $15,000 COP, depending on your starting point. Once in El Rodadero, head to the first race with sixth street in the 'Canal de las Iguanas' for beach access options. From there, you can take a boat to Playa Inca Inca for approximately $25,000 COP round trip.
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Walking
If you are already near the beach areas of Santa Marta, you can walk towards Playa Inca Inca. Head northeast along the coast, following the beach paths. The walk is about 40 minutes. It is recommended to walk in groups and during the morning hours. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.