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Playa Taganga: A Fishing Village Turned Tourist Hotspot

Discover Taganga: A vibrant Colombian fishing village with stunning sunsets, diving adventures, and easy access to Tayrona National Park.

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Playa Taganga, a small fishing village near Santa Marta, Colombia, offers a blend of Caribbean charm and coastal beauty. While the main beach may not be ideal for swimming, Taganga serves as a hub for diving, fresh seafood, and access to nearby beaches and Tayrona National Park.

A brief summary to Playa Taganga

  • Vía Sta. Marta - Taganga, Taganga, Magdalena, 470001, CO
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Take a boat trip to Playa Grande for a more traditional beach experience with white sand and clear water.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.
  • Taganga is known for its affordable diving courses; consider getting your PADI certification here.
  • Be aware of your belongings and surroundings, especially at night, as petty theft can occur.
  • Catch the sunset on the beach for a memorable experience; the colors can be spectacular.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Playa Taganga from Santa Marta, take a blue bus marked 'Kra 11 Taganga' from Carrera 5 in the historic center. The bus fare is approximately 1,800-2,500 COP, and the journey takes about 20-30 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Alternatively, a taxi from Santa Marta to Taganga costs around 12,000-30,000 COP and takes approximately 15 minutes. You can hail a yellow cab or use the 'InDrive' app.

  • Walking

    Once in Taganga, the village is easily walkable. To reach Playa Grande, walk from the main beach, heading right (west) along the coast. Follow the road for about 15 minutes until it ends, then take the path up and over the hill. The hike takes about 20 minutes.

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Discover more about Playa Taganga

Playa Taganga, a traditional fishing village and corregimiento, is located on Colombia's Caribbean coast, a mere 10 minutes north of Santa Marta. Founded in 1525, Taganga has evolved from an isolated village into a popular tourist destination. The village offers a unique blend of coastal charm and access to natural wonders. Taganga's history is rooted in its identity as a fishing village, with the Tayrona indigenous people having inhabited the area long before the arrival of the Spanish. For centuries, maritime activities shaped the village's economic and cultural life. While Taganga's main beach may not be the cleanest or most inviting for swimming, it offers a stunning view and a glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen. Today, Taganga is known as a backpacker hub, famous for its sunsets, diving opportunities, and proximity to Tayrona National Park. The village has a bohemian vibe, with colorful murals and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can explore the town center, sample fresh seafood, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Taganga also serves as a departure point for boat trips to nearby beaches like Playa Grande and Playa Cristal, as well as excursions into Tayrona National Park.

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