Cabo San Juan Boat Tour

Experience an unforgettable boat tour to Cabo San Juan from Santa Marta and let yourself be captivated by Caribbean landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and the natural beauty of Tayrona Park.
Tour price: $280.000 COP
Book with a 20% deposit of the total tour price

⚠️ Temporary closures of Tayrona Park in 2026

Tayrona National Natural Park will be temporarily closed during the following dates: February 1–15, June 1–15, and October 19–November 2.

Departures: Daily
Duration: 1 Day
Transport: Boat
Language: Spanish
Departure Time and Place: 8:00 am - Santa Marta Marina
Arrival Time and Place: 5:00 pm - Santa Marta Marina
Cancellation: Advance

Cabo San Juan Boat Tour Description

The boat tour to Cabo San Juan del Guía is the fastest and most direct way to enjoy this Tayrona Park beach without long hikes. This tour departs from Santa Marta Bay (The Marina), an accessible boarding point located in the historic center.

From the moment you board the boat, the sea journey becomes part of the experience: a mix of adrenaline, sea breeze, and panoramic views of the Caribbean coast. In just about 1 hour, the boat connects tourists with Cabo San Juan del Guía, one of Tayrona Park’s most iconic beaches. However, those sensitive to motion sickness should consider that movement can vary according to sea conditions.

This maritime experience is perfect for those who want to maximize their time at the beach, avoid the hike from Cañaveral, and enjoy a hassle-free full day. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, and travelers with limited time, especially during peak seasons when every minute counts to find a good spot to rest.

Once in Cabo San Juan, you are free to explore several of the park’s most beautiful beaches, such as the Natural Pool and Playa Arenilla, with enough time to swim, rest, sunbathe, or snorkel in permitted areas.

The boat remains in Cabo San Juan bay all day and returns to Santa Marta around 3:30 pm.

What's included in the tour

  • Round-trip boat transfer
  • Tour guide
  • Tayrona Park entrance fee
  • Medical assistance insurance

Not included in the tour

  • Lunch
  • Services not specified in the plan
  • Souvenirs
  • Alcoholic beverages

What to bring on the tour

  • Comfortable, light clothing ideal for a tropical climate, swimwear, and a long-sleeved garment for sun protection.
  • Hat or cap and sunglasses for extra protection during navigation and your stay at the beach.
  • Sandals or comfortable shoes that allow you to walk on the beach and rocky areas without issues.
  • Water-resistant sunscreen; apply before the tour and reapply after swimming.
  • Sufficient hydration (water in a reusable bottle is ideal) to stay fresh under the intense coastal sun.
  • Light snacks or fruit, perfect for keeping up energy between activities.
  • Snorkeling gear if you wish to do this activity on your own; it is also available for rent in Cabo San Juan.
  • Waterproof camera or waterproof phone case, useful for capturing photos without worrying about splashes or sand.
  • Personal medications and any necessary treatments, especially if you have specific medical conditions.
  • Dry bag or plastic bags to protect documents, cash, and personal items during navigation.
  • Cash in small bills, as there isn't always signal or electronic payment in Cabo San Juan.
  • Light or quick-dry towel, ideal for resting or drying off after swimming.
  • Insect repellent, especially useful in the afternoon or in vegetated areas.
  • ID (ID card or passport)

Cabo San Juan del Guía Boat Tour Itinerary

9:00 am: Boat departure from the Santa Marta Marina

The Cabo San Juan Boat Tour is a full-day experience designed for those who want to enjoy Tayrona Park to the fullest without long hikes. The adventure starts early in Santa Marta Bay, where the guide meets the group, explains safety rules, the correct way to board, and navigation details to Tayrona Park.

From the start, the journey creates a mix of excitement, adrenaline, sea breeze, and comfort. Before setting sail, the guide ensures all travelers are wearing life jackets correctly and offers useful tips to protect cameras, phones, or other personal items during the trip.

The journey across open sea takes approximately 1 hour, which may vary depending on weather and wave conditions. During the trip, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the Caribbean coastline and the imposing Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

10:30 am: Arrival at Cabo San Juan del Guía beach

Once in Cabo San Juan, travelers find an incomparable natural setting: twin bays surrounded by palm trees, calm waters, and soft sand. Atop the rocks stands the lookout cabin, one of the beach's most iconic spots, offering privileged views of the Caribbean Sea.

The area also features a restaurant, a small shop, and shaded areas ideal for resting during the day. We recommend bringing cash for personal purchases and staying attentive to the guide's instructions regarding authorized swimming areas and rules for respecting wildlife and the environment, ensuring a safe and responsible experience within Tayrona Park.

12:30 pm: Lunch at Cabo San Juan

At noon, the guide gathers the group at the restaurant for lunch, which is at each tourist's own expense. Facing the beautiful Cabo San Juan beach, this is the perfect time to recharge, relax with the sea breeze, and appreciate the landscape that defines Tayrona Park.

After lunch, travelers have time to rest and enjoy the beach. You can relax on the soft white sand, swim in areas authorized by the guide, or take in the view from the natural lookouts and the iconic cabin atop the rocks. This free time invites you to disconnect, capture memorable photos, and experience Caribbean tranquility at one of Santa Marta's most representative beaches.

3:30 pm: Boat return to Santa Marta

Around 3:30 pm, the group meets again to board the return boat. The return trip takes approximately 1 hour, arriving at Santa Marta Bay around 4:30 pm, marking the end of an adventure full of nature, sea, and unforgettable experiences in Tayrona Park.

Tour location

Experience recommendations

  • In high season, schedules may be adjusted due to sea conditions. Therefore, final confirmation is sent the day before the tour.
  • Arrive having had breakfast, although there are establishments in Cabo San Juan where you can buy food or snacks.
  • Meet on time at the Marina to board the boat. Arriving early speeds up boarding and allows you to organize your belongings in dry bags or sealed backpacks.
  • Duration may vary depending on sea conditions and the day's operation. The key for travelers is that the boat route significantly reduces travel time compared to hiking.
  • Limited connectivity: There is no mobile phone signal during the tour.
  • You must carry your ID to enter Tayrona National Natural Park.
  • Pack light: Bring only the essentials. Backpack weight directly influences your experience.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol the day before the excursion starts.
  • Environmental protection: Do not damage the natural resources or cultural property of Tayrona Park.
  • Follow the guide: Follow the guide's instructions at all times; this ensures safety and a better experience.
  • Personal belongings: Each traveler is responsible for their belongings. Keep your valuables secure.
  • A Yellow Fever vaccination is advisable.
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