Name: La Ballena Azul Hotel
Rating: 8.6

Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

The best area to stay in Santa Marta is El Rodadero, a popular beachfront neighborhood known for its convenient amenities and lively activity.

El Rodadero is situated just south of the city center, easily accessible by a short taxi ride. It's characterized by a long, crescent-shaped beach, "Playa El Rodadero," lined with high-rise hotels, restaurants, and shops. The area is highly walkable, with a main promenade running parallel to the beach and streets branching off into commercial zones. Many establishments offer views of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding hills.

Couples looking for a relaxed beach vacation often find El Rodadero ideal. They can enjoy leisurely days on the well-maintained beach, dine at various restaurants ranging from casual to upscale, and experience the evening energy of the area. The neighborhood also offers easy access to boat tours departing from the marina to nearby natural parks and secluded coves like Playa Blanca.

For families, El Rodadero provides a convenient base with plenty of activities. The calm waters of the bay are suitable for swimming, and vendors along the beach offer various water sports. There are also numerous ice cream parlors and souvenir shops, making it easy to keep everyone entertained.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in Santa Marta that travelers recommend?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best hotels in Santa Marta that receive consistently high recommendations from travelers are Hotel Boutique Don Pepe and Hotel Irotama del Sol.

Hotel Boutique Don Pepe is a 4-star hotel with an outstanding 9.4 rating. Guests frequently praise the friendly and attentive staff, the wonderful breakfast, and its superb location near Parque de los Novios, Marina Santa Marta, and Santa Marta Beach. This hotel offers amenities like bathrobes, premium bedding, and a rainfall showerhead.

Another highly recommended option is the 3.5-star Hotel Irotama del Sol, which has a 9.0 rating. Travelers consistently highlight the great food and staff. This resort-style property provides a poolside bar, air conditioning, and rooms with sea views.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best family-friendly hotels in Santa Marta are the Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida and Hotel Irotama del Sol.

The 4.5-star Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida, with an outstanding 9.4 rating, offers a fantastic experience for families. It provides a free children's club, a playground, and various toys and games for children and babies, including beach toys. Guests consistently praise the friendly and amazing staff, as well as the great and delicious food, particularly the excellent breakfast.

Another excellent choice is the 3.5-star Hotel Irotama del Sol, which boasts a 9.0 rating. This hotel features a free children's club with supervised childcare, a playground, and a children's pool. Connecting rooms are available, and cribs are provided free of charge, making it very convenient for families. Guests frequently compliment the great food and staff. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Santa Marta

Question 4

Are there any all-inclusive hotels in Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are several excellent all-inclusive hotels in Santa Marta, including Hotel Porto Horizonte All Inclusive by oxoHotel, Hotel Irotama del Sol, Hotel Irotama Lago, Hotel Irotama XXI, and Decameron Galeon - All Inclusive.

The 4-star Hotel Porto Horizonte All Inclusive by oxoHotel, with a rating of 8.4, offers a comfortable stay with an outdoor pool, free pool cabanas, and a private outdoor hot tub. Guests consistently mention the comfortable beds, nice location, quiet rooms, and friendly, good service. It also provides a 24-hour airport shuttle.

Another great option is the 3.5-star Hotel Irotama del Sol, boasting an impressive 9.0 rating. This hotel focuses on wellness with a full-service spa offering body treatments, facials, massages, a sauna, steam room, and even a Turkish bath. Guests frequently praise the great food and staff.

The 4-star Hotel Irotama Lago, rated 8.6, provides an all-inclusive experience with beautiful ocean views. Guests highlight the attentive and extremely helpful staff, the beautiful balconies, and the delicious food, especially the excellent buffet breakfast.

For a highly-rated all-inclusive experience, consider the 3-star Hotel Irotama XXI, which has an outstanding 9.4 rating. This hotel offers ocean views and free WiFi, along with a complimentary area shuttle.

Finally, the 3.5-star Decameron Galeon - All Inclusive, rated 7.4, provides a convenient all-inclusive option with a 24-hour airport shuttle, free breakfast, and complimentary self-parking. See more all-inclusive resorts in Santa Marta

Question 5

What are the best spa hotels in Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

For the best spa hotels in Santa Marta, consider the Placita Vieja Hotel Boutique Spa, the Hotel Irotama del Sol, and the Hotel Irotama Lago.

The 3.5-star Placita Vieja Hotel Boutique Spa, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, offers a full-service spa with aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, body wraps, and hot stone massages. Guests consistently praise the excellent staff and the quality of the spa services. It is also conveniently located just 0.2 miles from Santa Marta Beach and Santa Marta Bay.

Another excellent option is the 3.5-star Hotel Irotama del Sol, rated 9.0. Its full-service spa provides a wide range of treatments including body wraps, facials, aromatherapy, and hot stone massages, along with a sauna, hot tub, and steam room. Guests frequently highlight the great food and staff.

The 4-star Hotel Irotama Lago, with a rating of 8.6, also features a full-service spa. This hotel offers a hot tub, sauna, steam room, and various treatments such as facials, body scrubs, and massages. Guests appreciate the attentive and extremely helpful staff, as well as the delicious food and excellent buffet breakfast. See all spa hotels in Santa Marta

Question 6

Which beach resorts in Santa Marta do travelers love?

Accepted Answer

For beach resorts in Santa Marta that travelers love, consider the Hilton Santa Marta and Hotel Irotama del Sol.

The 4.5-star Hilton Santa Marta, with an 8.6 rating, offers stunning sea views and ocean views, complemented by a convenient 24-hour airport shuttle and 24-hour room service. Guests frequently praise its excellent and attentive staff, the clean and great facilities, and the amazing amenities, including a refreshing rainfall showerhead. It is ideally located just 0.3 miles from Bello Horizonte Beach, making it great for beach enthusiasts.

Another highly-rated option is the 3.5-star Hotel Irotama del Sol, which boasts an impressive 9.0 rating. This resort features a full-service spa with a hot tub, steam room, and a variety of treatments, including aromatherapy and massages, great for relaxation. Guests consistently highlight the great food and exceptional staff. It is also conveniently located near Bello Horizonte Beach, just 0.3 miles away. See more stays near the beach in Santa Marta

Question 7

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in Santa Marta, consider the Mercure Santa Marta Emile, Estelar Santamar Hotel & Centro de Convenciones, Hotel Akuamarina, Masaya Santa Marta, or Viajero Santa Marta Hostel.

The 3.5-star Mercure Santa Marta Emile, with a 9.0 rating, permits both dogs and cats and provides litter boxes, food, and water bowls. Guests consistently praise the extremely helpful staff and excellent location, with Zazue just 0.2 miles away.

Another great option is the 3.5-star Estelar Santamar Hotel & Centro de Convenciones, rated 8.6, which permits pets, including dogs and cats, even in smoking rooms. Food and water bowls are also provided, and Cape Turtle Beach is conveniently located just 0.6 miles from the hotel.

The 3.5-star Hotel Akuamarina, boasting an excellent 9.4 rating, warmly welcomes pets, offering litter boxes, food, and water bowls for both dogs and cats. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary cooked breakfast. Its location is ideal, with Parque de los Novios, Marina Santa Marta, Santa Marta Beach, and Simón Bolivar Park all within 0.6 miles.

Masaya Santa Marta, rated 8.6, is a good choice for dog owners, providing food and water bowls. This hotel features an outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar, and is conveniently located near Parque de los Novios (0.3 miles), Marina Santa Marta (0.4 miles), Santa Marta Beach (0.4 miles), and Simón Bolivar Park (0.2 miles).

Finally, the Viajero Santa Marta Hostel, with a 9.0 rating, permits both dogs and cats. It is praised by guests for its good food and super nice staff, and is within 0.6 miles of Parque de los Novios, Marina Santa Marta, Santa Marta Beach, and Simón Bolivar Park. See more pet-friendly hotels in Santa Marta

Question 8

What are the top boutique hotels in Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

For top boutique hotels in Santa Marta, consider the Hotel Catedral Plaza or the Bonita Bay Concept Hotel by Xarm Hotels.

The 3-star Hotel Catedral Plaza, with an 8.6 rating, is a beautiful Beaux-Arts style hotel. It offers a refreshing outdoor pool with sun loungers and a convenient poolside bar. Guests can also benefit from an early check-in option and a 24-hour airport shuttle. It is very close to Santa Marta Beach and Santa Marta Bay, both just 0.4 miles away.

Another excellent choice is the 4-star Bonita Bay Concept Hotel by Xarm Hotels, which also has an 8.6 rating. This Art Deco property provides complimentary cooked breakfast and free WiFi. Its 24-hour airport shuttle service and free toiletries add to the convenience. Guests frequently praise the good customer service. This hotel is also very near Santa Marta Beach and Santa Marta Bay, both just 0.2 miles away. See all boutique hotels in Santa Marta

Question 9

What are the best budget hotels in Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

When looking for the best budget hotels in Santa Marta, consider the Hotel San Miguel Imperial, Vito Hotel Boutique Taganga, Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro, Hotel La Casablanca Tayrona, and Hotel Ki' Kuxtah.

The 3-star Hotel San Miguel Imperial, with a rating of 8.0, offers complimentary breakfast, toiletries, and free WiFi, along with free self-parking. It is conveniently located near several points of interest including the Santa Marta Cathedral and the Tairona Gold Museum, both less than half a mile away.

For a highly-rated option, the 3-star Vito Hotel Boutique Taganga boasts an impressive 9.6 rating. Guests can enjoy free full breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking, with pets staying free. It is also very close to Taganga Beach, just 0.3 miles away, and Grande Beach, 0.6 miles away.

The 3-star Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro, also rated 9.6, provides free breakfast, free toiletries, and free WiFi, as well as free self-parking and a 24-hour airport shuttle. This hotel is primarily located near the Marinka Waterfalls, which are just 0.3 miles away.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star Hotel La Casablanca Tayrona, with a 9.2 rating. This hotel offers free local breakfast, free toiletries, free WiFi, free self-parking, and a 24-hour airport shuttle.

Finally, the 3-star Hotel Ki' Kuxtah, rated 8.6, provides free breakfast, free toiletries, free WiFi, and a 24-hour airport shuttle, along with free self-parking and free cribs if needed. It is situated close to Taganga Beach, only 0.4 miles away, and Grande Beach, 0.6 miles away. View all budget hotels in Santa Marta

Question 10

What are the most romantic hotels in Santa Marta for couples?

Accepted Answer

For a romantic getaway in Santa Marta, consider the Hotel Irotama del Sol or the Hotel Irotama Lago, both offering excellent amenities for couples.

The Hotel Irotama del Sol, a 3.5-star hotel with an impressive 9.0 rating, provides a luxurious spa experience great for couples. It features a full-service spa with body treatments, body wraps, facial treatments, and even couples' treatment rooms. Guests can also enjoy the sauna, steam room, and hot tub. Its location is also very convenient, being just 0.3 miles from Bello Horizonte Beach.

Another wonderful option is the 4-star Hotel Irotama Lago, rated 8.6. This hotel also boasts a full-service spa with massage services, including couples' treatment rooms, a hot tub, and a Turkish bath. Many rooms offer beautiful beach and ocean views, with balconies from which to enjoy them. Guests frequently praise the attentive staff and delicious food. It is conveniently located 0.2 miles from Bello Horizonte Beach. See all romantic hotels in Santa Marta

Question 11

What are the best hotels in Santa Marta near Santa Marta Beach?

Accepted Answer

For excellent hotels in Santa Marta near Santa Marta Beach, consider the Grand Marina Santa Marta, Placita Vieja Hotel Boutique Spa, and Casa de Leda, a Kali Hotel.

The 3-star Grand Marina Santa Marta, with an impressive 9.8 rating, is situated just 0.1 miles from Santa Marta Beach. This hotel offers a pool, including a dedicated children's pool and a swim-up bar, making it ideal for families. Many rooms also feature sea or ocean views, and guests frequently praise its great location and excellent amenities.

Another outstanding option is the 3.5-star Placita Vieja Hotel Boutique Spa, which also boasts a 9.8 rating. Located only 0.2 miles from Santa Marta Beach, this hotel provides an outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar. Guests appreciate the excellent spa facilities, including a Turkish bath, and the 24-hour room service.

The 4-star Casa de Leda, a Kali Hotel, rated 9.4, is located 0.3 miles from Santa Marta Beach. This hotel offers free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle service. Guests consistently highlight the spacious and clean rooms, modern amenities, and superb location.

Question 12

What hotels are near Santa Marta (SMR-Simon Bolivar)?

Accepted Answer

For hotels near Santa Marta (SMR-Simon Bolivar), consider the Wyndham Residences Santa Marta Aluna Beach Club, GHL Relax Hotel Costa Azul, Ritacuba House Boutique, SGH Hotel Castillo Aqua, or the Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida.

The 3-star Wyndham Residences Santa Marta Aluna Beach Club, rated 7.6, is conveniently located directly at the airport. It offers a pool with a poolside bar and ocean views, and rooms include a kitchen, which can be very useful for families. Guests have praised the exceptional service.

The 3.5-star GHL Relax Hotel Costa Azul, with a rating of 8.6, is less than a mile from the airport. This hotel is very family-friendly, featuring a free water park, a shared children's playground, a children's pool, and free cribs and rollaway beds. It also provides child-friendly window designs and kids' meals.

Another excellent option is the 3.5-star Ritacuba House Boutique, which boasts an impressive 9.2 rating and is located just a mile from the airport. This hotel caters to families with a children's pool, free cribs, and children's books and games. Free rollaway extra beds are also available.

The SGH Hotel Castillo Aqua is just over a mile from the airport and offers a children's pool. Guests can enjoy free full breakfast and free WiFi, along with free self-parking and complimentary toiletries.

Finally, the 4.5-star Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida, rated 9.4, is located 1.2 miles from the airport. This resort is highly recommended for families, offering a free kids' club, a shared children's playground, and a variety of toys for children and babies, including beach toys. Connecting rooms, cribs, and sofa beds are available. Guests frequently highlight the amazing and friendly staff, great food, excellent service, and excellent breakfast.

Question 13

Where can I find the best nightlife in Santa Marta?

Accepted Answer

Santa Marta offers a few distinct areas for nightlife, each with its own character.

The historic city center, particularly around Parque de los Novios, is the main area for evening entertainment. Here, you'll find a concentration of bars, restaurants with outdoor seating, and some dance clubs. Many establishments offer live music, often featuring local genres like Vallenato and Cumbia, or more contemporary Latin pop. It's a lively area where people gather in the evenings for drinks and socializing.

Rodadero, located south of the city center, is another popular spot for nightlife. This area caters more to tourists and has a selection of larger clubs, discotheques, and beachfront bars. The music here tends to be more international and mainstream, with a focus on dancing. You'll find options ranging from casual open-air venues to more upscale clubs.

Taganga, a fishing village just a short drive from Santa Marta, offers a more relaxed and bohemian nightlife experience. It has a collection of smaller bars and pubs, many with a rustic or beachfront setting. The pace is generally slower than in the city center or Rodadero, and it's a good place for a quiet drink or casual conversations.

Question 14

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Santa Marta.

Question 15

How can I save on a Santa Marta hotel booking with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

With Expedia, you earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible Santa Marta hotel bookings for every dollar you spend – just join our One Key™ travel rewards program to get started. It’s free to join, and you’ll unlock our lowest Member Prices as soon as you’re signed in. On top of this, you could also save significantly by bundling your hotel and flights together on Expedia.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.

Question 16

How much is the nightly rate at a Santa Marta hotel?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in Santa Marta often vary, but you can find a great deal from $42 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

Month	Price
January	$78
February	$72
March	$75
April	$80
May	$70
June	$71
July	$78
August	$71
September	$75
October	$75
November	$81
December	$96

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.9°F (26.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
March	80.2°F (26.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
April	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

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