Playa Cristal Day Trip from Santa Marta: Snorkel, Beach and Tayrona’s Coastal Wilds
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness needed; suitable for most travelers who can board boats and walk short sandy/rocky stretches
Overview
A full-day escape from Santa Marta, this guided trip to Playa Cristal in Tayrona National Natural Park pairs a scenic boat ride with excellent snorkeling and a relaxed beach day. Perfect for families and first-time snorkelers, the tour includes park entry and transport.
Playa Cristal Day Trip from Santa Marta: Snorkel, Beach and Tayrona’s Coastal Wilds
Select participants and date
You step off the skiff and the ocean answers with a wide, shallow shoal of glassy blue: Playa Cristal doesn’t hide its invitation. The sand is pale and firm underfoot, coconut palms lean like slow metronomes, and the water—so clear you can count the dark blotches of coral—pulls at the urge to swim straight out.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The reef is fragile—use mineral-based sunscreen to protect coral and marine life while swimming and snorkeling.
Carry cash for beach services
Snorkel equipment rentals, food stalls, and kayak hires are often cash-only; bring small bills in a waterproof pouch.
Wear water shoes
Sand and rocky points mix on the bay; water shoes protect feet when walking to snorkeling spots and on jetties.
Plan for early pickup
Tours usually depart around 5:00 a.m. from Santa Marta—expect a 1h20min drive to the park entrance and short boat transfer to the beach.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Brown pelican
- Tropical reef fish such as parrotfish and sergeant majors
History
Tayrona's coastline has long been a resource area for indigenous communities; today park rules reflect efforts to protect both cultural sites and habitat.
Conservation
Visitors are asked to use reef-safe products, avoid touching coral, and carry out all trash; the park enforces limits to manage visitor numbers and protect sensitive areas.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Santa Marta
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects coral and prevents sunburn during long exposure on the water and sand.
Dry bag (10–20L)
Keeps phone, cash and a towel dry during the boat transfer and beach time.
Water shoes
Protects feet from rocks and coral when snorkeling or exploring shoreline points.
Snorkel set (optional)
Bringing your own mask and snorkel ensures a comfortable fit and better visibility in the shallow reef.
summer specific