Santa Marta: Tour to Rodadero, Aquarium and Playa Blanca

Santa Marta: Tour to Rodadero, Aquarium and Playa Blanca offers a well-rounded day exploring Colombia’s beautiful coast. For $98 per person, you’ll spend roughly 7 hours immersed in marine sights, sandy beaches, and scenic boat rides. Led by friendly guides who speak both Spanish and English, this tour combines educational stops with relaxing beach time—perfect for anyone craving a mix of adventure and leisure in Santa Marta.

Two things we really appreciate: first, the guided visit to the Aquarium and Museum of the Sea, which offers fascinating encounters with sharks, sea lions, and tropical fish—great for families and marine enthusiasts alike. Second, the boat excursions deliver stunning views of the Caribbean coast and access to Playa Blanca, a pristine strip of white sand that’s ideal for unwinding and taking photos.

A possible consideration? The tour’s success hinges on weather and sea conditions, which can sometimes delay boat trips or make travel less comfortable. It’s also a fairly full day, so travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a slower pace might want to plan accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of education, scenic travel, and beach time—especially those keen on marine life or looking for a convenient way to see Santa Marta’s highlights without fussing over logistics.

Key Points

• Marine Exploration: Visit the Aquarium and Museum of the Sea for a close-up look at local marine species.
• Scenic Boat Rides: Enjoy two boat transfers with panoramic views of the Caribbean coast.
• Beach Relaxation: Unwind on the soft sands of Playa Blanca with a traditional Caribbean lunch.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides lead you through each stop, enhancing your understanding.
• Flexible Options: Available as shared or private tours, with flexible pickup locations and times.
• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees, boat transfers, lunch, and insurance are included, making it straightforward and stress-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Hotel to Marina
The day begins early, with pickup from your Santa Marta, Rodadero, or Taganga accommodation around 9 AM. The transport is comfortable, and local guides typically speak Spanish, with private tours possibly offering English guides. The short 15-20 minute drive to El Rodadero port is a quick prelude to the adventure ahead. This part of the trip is smooth, and early pickup ensures you beat the crowds and make the most of the day.

Boat Trip to the Aquarium and Museum of the Sea
Once at El Rodadero port, you board a fast boat that whisks you across the Caribbean in about 20-30 minutes. During the ride, you’ll enjoy spectacular coastal views—something we found particularly memorable. The boat’s speed adds a splash of excitement, especially when the sea is calm.

Exploring the Aquarium and Museum of the Sea
The main highlight is a guided tour through the Aquarium, where marine displays are thoughtfully curated. You’ll see sea lions, dolphins, and themed aquariums filled with coral, tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles, and rays. The educational aspect is notable, with guides providing insights into each species’ ecology and importance. One reviewer notes, “The shark feeding spectacle was both exciting and educational—very well organized and engaging.”

The aquarium’s emphasis on conservation and regional marine life makes it more than just a display—it’s an opportunity to understand the local ecosystem. You can also browse the gift shop for souvenirs, which supports the aquarium’s conservation efforts.

Shark Feeding Spectacle
If your visit coincides with the scheduled feeding (Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 4 PM), you’ll witness sharks being fed—a thrilling sight that combines awe and respect for these misunderstood predators. Watching sharks in action offers a rare moment of connection and understanding, and guides often share facts that deepen your appreciation.

Boat to Playa Blanca
After the aquarium visit, a second boat whisks you to Playa Blanca, known for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. Trip duration is around 15-20 minutes, and the ride itself is a highlight—offering sweeping views of the coast and ocean.

Relaxing at Playa Blanca
Once on the beach, you’re free to relax, swim, or stroll along the shoreline. The tour includes a typical Caribbean lunch served on the beach—perhaps fried fish, rice, plantains, or fresh fruit—delivered in a relaxed, scenic setting. Many travelers enjoy this combination of good food and beautiful scenery, making it a perfect spot for unwinding after the morning’s activity.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-off
By around 3 PM, you’ll board the boat back to El Rodadero. From there, a driver will transfer you back to your hotel, completing a day packed with marine education, scenic views, and beach relaxation.

What We Loved About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides
The guides’ expertise is clear—they can explain marine species’ behaviors, conservation efforts, and local ecological issues in an engaging way. This makes the experience educational but not dull, especially for families or curious travelers.

Stunning Coastal Views
From the boat rides, you’ll enjoy panoramic scenes of the Caribbean coast—bright blue waters meeting lush green hills. These vistas are a core part of why the tour feels special; they’re a reminder of why Santa Marta’s coastline is so treasured.

Practical and Well-Organized
The entire trip is quite seamless, with clear instructions on what to bring (like swimwear and biodegradable sunscreen) and what to expect. The inclusion of lunch, entrance fees, boat transfers, and insurance creates a hassle-free experience—one less thing to worry about.

Authentic Local Experience
Visiting Playa Blanca and the aquarium offers a glimpse of local life and natural beauty. It’s a balanced mix of sightseeing, education, and leisure that feels genuine rather than overly commercialized.

Considerations for Travelers

Weather conditions can influence boat trips and sightseeing, so flexibility is important. The tour is fairly full in 7 hours, which might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer a slower pace. Also, while the facilities are wheelchair accessible, the boat rides and beach are outdoor activities that might pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

Who Would Benefit Most from This Tour?

This experience best suits families, first-time visitors, and marine life enthusiasts. It offers a manageable way to see key attractions with a knowledgeable guide, making it ideal for those wanting both education and relaxation. It’s particularly good for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides and enjoy the idea of combining sightseeing with beach time.

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The Sum Up

This tour from Santa Marta provides a satisfying blend of educational marine encounters, scenic boat rides, and relaxing beach time—all for a reasonable price. It’s a well-organized way to explore both the local sea life and the stunning coastline, with the added bonus of a delicious Caribbean lunch.

Travelers looking to learn about the region’s marine environment, enjoy picturesque views, and unwind on a beautiful beach will find plenty to love here. The guides’ knowledge and the overall smooth operation make it a reliable choice, especially if you want a day packed with variety without the headache of planning every detail yourself.

For those who value authentic experiences, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a full day and bring your sense of curiosity—and your sun protection.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at hotels or accommodations in Santa Marta, Rodadero, or Taganga.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 9 AM, depending on availability.

Are guides available in English?
Private tours can have guides in English or Spanish; shared tours are typically guided in Spanish.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, biodegradable sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, shorts, a reusable water bottle, and biodegradable insect repellent.

Can I feed the marine species?
Yes, but only in the mega aquarium and with a feeding cup purchased at the reception. Feeding happens on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 4 PM.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the aquarium has facilities for wheelchair access, but boat rides and beach activities might have limitations.

What is included in the price?
Entrance to the aquarium, boat transfers, lunch, medical insurance, and hotel transfers are included.

What is not included?
Breakfast and any extras not mentioned in the itinerary.

How are the boat rides?
They are generally smooth and scenic, but weather conditions can affect the experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Santa Marta tour offers a lively, scenic, and educational day—designed for those eager to explore Colombia’s marine wonders and relax on its beautiful beaches without hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby