Cabo San Juan Beach Guide
Cabo San Juan: Paradise Found in Tayrona National Park Guide
Cabo San Juan del Guía is arguably the crown jewel of Tayrona National Park, and that's saying something! This stunning beach is famous for its iconic double bay, separated by a rocky headland topped with a rustic eco-hab where you can even spend the night. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of turquoise waters, lush rainforest, and the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance. It's a postcard-perfect destination that truly lives up to the hype. The journey to Cabo San Juan is part of the adventure. Tayrona National Park itself is a protected area teeming with biodiversity. The indigenous Kogi people consider this land sacred, and their presence adds a layer of cultural significance to the experience. While the beach is relatively new as a tourist destination, the park has a long history of conservation and protection of the natural environment. Once you arrive, prepare to be mesmerized. Spend your days swimming in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on the pristine sands, or snorkeling amongst colorful coral reefs. Hike through the surrounding jungle trails, keeping an eye out for monkeys, iguanas, and exotic birds. For the adventurous, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular options. And of course, don't forget to climb up to the eco-hab for those unforgettable views and photo opportunities. Cabo San Juan is more than just a beach; it's an immersive experience in nature's beauty.
Transportation
Getting to Cabo San Juan requires a bit of planning, but it's well worth the effort. First, you'll need to get to the entrance of Tayrona National Park (El Zaino). You can take a bus from Santa Marta's public market. From El Zaino, you have two options: hike or take a shuttle bus part of the way. The hike to Cabo San Juan takes approximately 2-3 hours through the jungle. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus from El Zaino to a drop-off point closer to the beach, reducing the hike to about 1-1.5 hours. From the drop-off point, it's a scenic walk to Cabo San Juan. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water!