If you are looking for nightlife, Santa Marta has it. From great restaurants like Porthos Steak House to cocktail bars like Charlies Bar to rooftop clubs that go late into the night. The nightlife is concentrated in the historic district (“El Centro”) around Parque de los Novios. Go to the intersection of Calle 19 and Carrera 3 in the historic district and follow the crowds in any direction! Here are some of my suggestions.
Porthos Steakhouse
Top quality steakhouse with great wine and cocktail selection. Nice atmosphere, may need reservations.(Calle 19- #3-25)
Cocina de Emy Natural Food
Cute casual restaurant on the corner of Parque de Novas with great pastas, pizzas and live music. (Parque de Los Novios, at intersection of Carrera 2a and Calle 19)
Gringo Cantina
Excellent Mexican food, margaritas and cheap drinks in a huge cute outdoor patio with a fun vibe. (Calle 18 #2-82)
Gnam Gelateria
Stop here for a wide variety of delicious home made ice cream and gelato including unusual local flavors. (Carrera 2 #17-73)
Lulo Cafe
Cute cafe restaurant famous for its Arepas and a wide selection of natural juices. (Cra.3 #16-34)
Boardwalk, Santa Marta Bay
There a a few tasty places to eat on the boardwalk and this is a great place for a few cocktails as you watch the sunset.
Charlie’s
Great friendly cocktail bar with DJ or live music and outdoor seating on a busy street. Great for people watching. (Calle 19 #412)
Barbas Disco Bar
Popular cool nightclub with rooftop bar. (Calle 19 #3-09)
Where to Stay
Luxury
Hilton Hotel Santa Marta
The best luxury option is the Hilton Hotel Santa Marta. International standard high end hotel. Located right on Santa Marta Bay a couple blocks from Parque de Los Novios. Great service and concierge especially helpful if your Spanish isn’t great.
High end Boutique Hotel
Placita Vieja Boutique Hotel
The Placate Vieja hotel is nice, well maintained romantic hotel right in the Parque de Novios. Rooftop pool and nice breakfast.
Mid range Boutique Hotel
The Cactus Boutique Hotel
The Cactus is like have a suite to yourself. Very large rooms with kitchen, tables and living room. Small rooftop pool with nice nice mountain views and a tasty breakfast.
Budget
Best Western Santa Marta
For amazing value try the Best Western Santa Marta. I stayed here for $55 a night with breakfast included.
Clean and well maintain, beautiful pool with nice views, friendly service and good buffet breakfast. Its on the edge of the historic district so about a 8 minute walk to Parque de Los Novios.
Hostel
Hostel Viajero Santa Marta
This is a well run South American hostel chain. Fun place and good to meet other travelers and organize your activities from.
Conclusion
It is hard not to fall in love with Santa Marta. Cute laid back town with beautiful beaches and a variety of great food and nightlife options all at incredibly cheap prices. Everything is concentrated in the historic district so its easy to wander and find new places. Please let us know if you find some gems and enjoy yourself!
