Santa Marta, Colombia – A Long Weekend at Cayena Beach Villa

I almost don’t want to write this post, because we have found the sweetest little hidden gem and I don’t want it to change when I book it for next year. But really, I couldn’t wait to write this post, because I want to relive the magic that we had at the beautiful Cayena Beach Villa.

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Getting to Cayena Beach Villa

We set out for the drive – a little under 6 hours with a few pit stops. Just as we started heading into Santa Marta, the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains pop from the sky. As day turned to dusk, we kept on our journey, heading past Tayrona National Park. We  finally took a left off the main highway, dark at this point, and looked at each other skeptically down the long and bumpy rural road…. until, we pulled up outside Cayena Beach Villa.

We couldn’t wait to check out the digs …. it became obvious pretty quickly, that we landed in paradise.

The Lure of Santa Marta

Santa Marta, Colombia is a vibrant coastal city where the Caribbean Sea meets lush mountains. As one of the oldest cities in South America, it serves as a gateway to breathtaking destinations like Tayrona National Park, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the famous Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) trek.

Santa Marta’s warm climate, relaxed pace, and abundance of outdoor adventure make it an ideal base for travelers seeking a down to earth Colombian experience. With both cultural depth and natural beauty, whether you’re exploring colonial streets, snorkeling along the coast, or escaping to nearby jungle and beach retreats, Santa Marta is a great fit for adventure loving travelers.

*If you have the time, don’t hesitate to book a Boat Tour through Tayrona National Park. Well worth being able to get away from the crowds and find your own experience.

We woke the next morning to really see the beauty of our surroundings. Lush landscaping, towering palms, coffee brewed and breakfast waiting downstairs at the family style table. It truly felt as if we were staying with good friends, both comfortable and well cared for.

Is there anything more like home than an old dog sleeping by the dinner table?

As if the grounds weren’t lush and beautiful enough, the staff was even better. They took the time to talk to my children and hear our story. We met fellow travelers over family style meals that made for interesting conversation. We practiced our Spanglish and had some good laughs. It was food for the soul.

With a restaurant on site, we were delighted by not having to leave the property for any meals, creating a truly relaxing experience. All of our meals were delicious and fresh. They happily catered to my kids whims for pancakes and french fries, but the 3 course dinners were truly a treat. Local cuisine with gourmet flare.

When we weren’t eating, we swam, explored, put together Lego sets and generally relaxed with no busy agenda. Normally I travel like a tourist, I like to see all the things, but this trip really felt like staying true to the peaceful setting, keeping things simple and enjoying time with my family.

How I know it was a total success: Bed head, sandy toes, barefoot all day, fire sky sunsets, amazing desserts, good sleep, and talking about coming back again.

You don’t often find a place where it all comes together. An enjoyable time for kids and adults with relaxation and comfort only normally achieved at home, but this place had all of that plus the bonus of seeing somewhere new and beautiful. To the folks who made this possible at Cayena Beach Villa, thank you, don’t change anything and we will see you next year.

Check out more of our adventures in Colombia by visiting some of my favorite posts:

• Volcan Totumo – A unique experience in the famous mud volcano.
• Blue Apple Beach House – Spend the day at this beautiful and relaxing beach club just a short boat ride away.
• A Trip the Rosario Islands – A visit to the Oceanarium and more island exploration.