Buritaca

Where to stay

There is no real grid here. Hostels sit either right where the river meets the sea, a short walk from the highway drop-off, or spread along the beach in both directions, which means a sandy walk with your pack. Anything further out trades easy dinner options for a quieter stretch of sand.

Getting around

• There are no ATMs. Take out everything you need in Santa Marta or Palomino before you get on the bus, since the beach hostels are cash-only more often than not.
• The current where the river meets the sea is strong and the beach has no lifeguards. Locals swim in the river mouth rather than the open water, and it is worth copying them.
• Buses along the Troncal del Caribe drop you on the highway, not at your hostel. Tell the driver you want Buritaca and be ready for a walk or a mototaxi at the other end.

When to go

Cheapest and quietest in May, June, September, and October, when the rain comes through. December through January and Semana Santa fill the beach hostels weeks ahead, and prices roughly track how full Palomino is.