Bavaria: the neighborhood that holds the pools every samario should know
If you live in Santa Marta and think that to jump into a pool you have to go to a private club or pay a steep entry fee at a hotel, I have news for you: in the Bavaria neighborhood, just 15 minutes from the Historic Center, there are three public pools that are the quintessential family plan. They are not gated community pools or tourist condominium pools. They are community spaces, with an affordable entry fee, that locals know well but few tourists know exist. In June 2026, when the heat is intense and the breeze isn't enough, these pools are a respite not found in any traditional travel guide.
Bavaria is a working-class middle-class neighborhood, with wide streets and colorful houses, that grew around the old Bavaria Brewery (hence the name). There are no skyscrapers or luxury shopping centers here. What you find is neighborhood life, neighbors who know each other, and three pools that become the epicenter of Saturday and Sunday. If you come from outside, you will feel right at home. If you are a local, you surely already know what I'm talking about, but I will still tell you the fine details that make the difference.
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The mental map of the three hidden pools
They are not Olympic-sized pools and they don't have slides. They are neighborhood pools, the kind that fill up with children, adults, and even grandparents who arrive with their beach chairs. But each one has its own personality. Here I detail them so you know which one to go to depending on your plan.
Bavaria Central Pool: the largest and busiest
It is located in the heart of the neighborhood, on Calle 22 with Carrera 15. It is the oldest and has been around the longest. It is rectangular, about 25 meters long by 12 meters wide, with a depth ranging from 1 meter to 2.5 meters. The water is cool, not overly chlorinated, and the floor is non-slip tile. Around it there is a concrete apron where people set up their sunshades, portable coolers, and bluetooth speakers. On weekends, especially Saturday and Sunday, it fills up from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you want peace and quiet, it's better to go during the week, when only a few retirees and moms with babies go.
Bavaria Norte Pool: the most family-friendly and quiet
About 8 blocks from the Central one, going up Carrera 17 to Calle 27, is this smaller but better-maintained pool. It measures 15 meters long, with a maximum depth of 1.8 meters. It has a children's play area next to it (swings, monkey bars, and a small slide), and there is more shade because it is surrounded by mango and jobo trees. It is ideal if you are going with small children or if you want to read a book without so much noise. The neighbors in the area take care of it as if it were their own: they sweep the floor, water the plants, and even play music at a moderate volume. Here there are no speakers blasting at full volume, and that is appreciated.
Bavaria Sur Pool: the hidden one among the houses
This one is the hardest to find if you don't know it. It is located on Calle 19 with Carrera 12, tucked between two residential complexes. It looks like a private pool, but it is public. It is only 10 meters long, but it is the deepest: 2.8 meters in the deep end. The water is colder because it is less exposed to the sun. It is almost always empty during the week, and on weekends groups of young people come to play water volleyball or just sit on the edge and chat. If you want privacy and don't mind walking a bit more, this is your pool.
Secret times: when they are empty
The key to enjoying these pools without crowds is the timing. Here I give you the details that few tell you:
- Monday to Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.: all three pools open early, but almost no one goes. Only older adults doing gentle swimming or people who work night shifts and take a dip before sleeping go. If you are an early riser, you have the pool practically to yourself.
- Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.: lunchtime is another quiet moment. Neighborhood workers are eating, children are at school. If you can sneak away at that time, you will find a maximum of 5 people.
- Saturdays after 4:00 p.m.: most people pack up at 3:00 p.m. because the sun starts to set behind the buildings. But the pool remains open until 6:00 p.m. That last hour is magical: warm water, low sun, and only the most persistent remain.
- Sundays in the morning (7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.): many go to mass or are sleeping. If you arrive early on Sunday, you have the pool almost to yourself until it starts to fill up around 10:30 a.m.
A curious fact: on rainy days, although it seems contradictory, the pools empty completely. Locals prefer not to get wet if it's already raining, but the pool water stays warm and clean. If you dare to go during a downpour, you will be alone.
The exact entry price (varies by day)
This changes from time to time, but as of June 2026, the reference prices are these:
- Monday to Friday: $4,000 COP per adult, $2,000 COP per child (under 12 years old). Includes pool use for the whole day, no time limit.
- Saturdays and Sundays: $6,000 COP per adult, $3,000 COP per child. The increase is due to more security and maintenance staff, and sometimes they have live music or children's activities.
- Holidays: $7,000 COP per adult, $4,000 COP per child. On days like July 20th, August 7th, or Holy Week, prices go up a bit because there is more demand.
- Group discounts: if you go with more than 10 people (family or group of friends), you can negotiate with the administrator. They usually give you a 20% discount if you pay all together. Ask at the entrance.
Important: the price includes pool and restroom use. It does not include chairs, umbrellas, or lockers. If you want to store your things, bring a waterproof bag or leave everything in the car. I do not recommend leaving valuables unattended.
Unwritten rules: what to bring and what not to do
Here are the tips that will save you from a bad time and make you look like an expert local:
What to bring no matter what
- Beach towel or large cloth: there is no rental service. Bring your own.
- Sunscreen: the sun in Santa Marta is intense, even if it's cloudy. Use a water-resistant one.
- Drinking water: the pools do not have water dispensers. Bring your own bottle or buy it at the corner store.
- Food: you can bring your own snacks. There is no restriction. But if you don't want to carry it, below I tell you where to buy empanadas 5 steps away.
- Folding chair or sunshade: the concrete floor burns. A beach chair or a sunshade saves you.
- Waterproof bag for your cell phone: water splashes and children can get your phone wet. For $5,000 COP at any store in the neighborhood you can get a case.
What NOT to do
- Don't bring glass: it is prohibited for safety. If you bring soda or beer, make sure it's in a can or plastic.
- Don't take food into the pool: you can eat on the edge, but not in the water. The administrators will call you out.
- Don't play music at full volume without asking: at the Central and Sur pools there is some tolerance, but at the Norte one it is frowned upon. Ask the neighbors if you can put your speaker on.
- Don't leave trash: there aren't enough trash cans. Bring a bag for your waste and throw it all away at home or in a nearby container.
- Don't get in if you have drunk a lot of alcohol: the lifeguards (there is one per pool) can kick you out if they see you in bad shape. Besides, it's dangerous.
Where to buy empanadas 5 steps from each pool
Part of the Bavaria experience is the empanadas. Here are the best options near each pool:
Near Bavaria Central Pool
Empanadas Doña Mary — at Calle 22 # 14-08, half a block from the entrance. They are beef, chicken, and cheese empanadas, fried on the spot, with homemade chili sauce. They cost $2,500 COP each. They also sell corozo juice and lemonade with mint for $2,000 COP. Open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Near Bavaria Norte Pool
La Esquina del Sabor — at Carrera 17 with Calle 27, right on the corner diagonal to the pool. Here the empanadas are larger, filled with shredded beef and potato, and they are served with costeño sour cream. They cost $3,000 COP. They also sell arepas de huevo and patacones with hogao. Open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Near Bavaria Sur Pool
Empanadas El Mago — at Calle 19 # 12-45, two houses from the pool. It is a cart that Don Carlos has been running for 15 years. His empanadas are chicken with mushrooms (the specialty) and beef with cheese. They cost $2,800 COP. He also sells coffee in a styrofoam cup for $1,500 COP. Open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., but on Sundays it closes at 3:00 p.m.
How to get there and transportation to Bavaria
Bavaria is located in the southeastern part of Santa Marta, about 15 minutes by car from the Historic Center and 20 minutes from El Rodadero. These are the options to get there:
- By city bus: take any bus that says "Bavaria" or "Los Pinos" on the route. They leave from Calle 22 with Carrera 5 (near the Public Market) and drop you off at the entrance of the neighborhood. The fare is $2,300 COP (June 2026). Ask the driver to let you know at the pool stop.
- By mototaxi: from any point in the city, a mototaxi charges you between $5,000 and $8,000 COP. Tell them "to the Bavaria pool" and they will take you directly. It is fast and cheap.
- By private car: from the Troncal del Caribe, take the exit towards Calle 22 and continue straight until you reach the neighborhood. There is street parking, but on weekends it fills up. Arrive early if you want to park nearby.
- By taxi: from the Center, a taxi charges you about $12,000 COP. From El Rodadero, about $20,000 COP. Negotiate the price before getting in.
Local tips to enjoy Bavaria like a samario
I give you these tips because I have been dozens of times and I know the tricks that don't appear on social media:
- Bring your own shade: the pools do not have fixed umbrellas. A sunshade or a beach umbrella saves you from direct sun. Locals use colorful sunshades that they tie to the fences or trees.
- Buy ice at the corner store: at each pool there is a store that sells bagged ice for $2,000 COP. Bring your portable cooler and buy ice there, so it doesn't melt on the way.
- The restrooms are basic: don't expect luxury facilities. There are toilets and sinks, but there isn't always toilet paper or soap. Bring your own kit (paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer).
- On weekends there are street vendors: ladies selling mango with salt and lime, chicharrones, cocadas, and typical sweets. They are cheap (from $1,000 COP) and delicious. Support local commerce.
- If you go with children, bring floaties: there is no sale or rental at the pools. Small children can use arm floaties or life vests. Teenagers usually bring beach balls.
- The best time for photos: at 4:30 p.m. the light is golden and the neighborhood looks spectacular from the pool. The photos turn out very nice for Instagram.
- Don't forget the repellent: although the pools don't have many mosquitoes, there are some in the surrounding areas, especially at dusk. A citronella-based repellent works well.
More than pools: what else to do in Bavaria
If after swimming you still have energy, the neighborhood has other plans worth knowing:
- Parque Bavaria: two blocks from the Central pool, there is a park with a soccer field, basketball court, and children's playground. On weekends there are impromptu 5-a-side soccer tournaments. You can sit and watch the game and eat a popsicle sold at the entrance.
- Iglesia San José de Bavaria: at Carrera 16 with Calle 24. It is a small church but very beloved by the neighbors. On Sundays there is mass at 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. If you arrive early, you can combine the spiritual plan with the pool.
- Local craft stores: on Calle 23 there are several houses that sell hand-woven hammocks, wayuu mochilas, and vueltiao hats. Prices are lower than in the Historic Center because there aren't as many tourists.
- Nighttime street food: on weekends, from 6:00 p.m., a food corridor sets up on Carrera 15 with Calle 22. There are stalls selling arepas, hot dogs, hamburgers, and skewers. An arepa with everything costs $5,000 COP.
Frequently asked questions
Are the Bavaria pools suitable for young children?
Yes, especially the Bavaria Norte Pool, which has a shallow area (1 meter) and a children's playground next to it. The Bavaria Central Pool also has a shallow part, but on weekends it fills up with adults and can be noisy for babies. I recommend bringing floaties and never losing sight of the children, as there are no lifeguards dedicated exclusively to the children's area.
Can I bring food and drinks from home?
Yes, it is allowed. Most families bring portable coolers with sandwiches, fruit, sodas, and water. The only thing you cannot bring are glass containers for safety. You can also buy food at the nearby stalls, like the empanadas I mentioned before. However, don't leave trash lying around; bring a bag for your waste.
Are there specific times for men and women or is it mixed?
It is completely mixed. There is no gender separation. Men, women, children, and adults share the same pool without restrictions. There are separate restrooms for men and women, but the pool area is shared. The only days there might be restrictions are when special events are held (like school swimming tournaments), but that is announced in advance at the entrance.
Do the pools have changing rooms and showers?
Yes, there are basic changing rooms (cubicles with curtains) and showers with cold water. There is no hot water. The changing rooms do not have lockers, so do not leave your belongings there unattended. It is best to change in the car or bring a small padlock to secure your bag to a fence, although it is not 100% safe. Many people change right at the edge of the pool with a large towel.
Can I pay with card or only cash?
Cash only. None of the three pools accept credit cards, debit cards, or digital transfers. Bring small bills ($2,000, $5,000, and $10,000 COP) because sometimes they don't have change for large bills. You can also pay with coins. There is no ATM nearby, so get cash before you arrive.
Now that you know everything, you just need to grab your towel, sunscreen, and cooler. Tag that friend you would jump into the pool with this Saturday. Bavaria awaits you with the water ready.
Historical or contextual introduction
Bavaria, an emblematic neighborhood of Santa Marta, has a rich history intertwined with the city's development. Founded at the end of the 19th century, this area has witnessed Santa Marta's transformation from a commercial port to a vibrant tourist destination. Over the years, the area has evolved, incorporating spaces for recreation and relaxation, such as its public and private pools. These facilities are a testament to the desire of the samarios to enjoy their warm climate and culture, even amidst urban life.
The pools in Bavaria not only offer an escape from the heat but also a space to socialize and enjoy the community. Many of these facilities have been revitalized in recent years, becoming meeting places where cultural and sporting events are organized. This trend reflects a growing interest among locals in enjoying their city more actively.
If you decide to explore the Bavaria pools, there are some aspects you should keep in mind:
- Opening hours: Make sure to check the hours, as they can vary depending on the day of the week and the season.
- Special events: Some pools organize activities like aqua aerobics classes or themed parties. Stay tuned for these opportunities to enrich your experience.
In summary, the Bavaria pools are more than just bodies of water; they are a reflection of local life and the history of Santa Marta, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy the warmth of its people and culture.
What to do
Monaco Club
An accessible option in the center of Santa Marta, ideal for enjoying a pool without needing to belong to an exclusive club. Here you can relax, sunbathe, and enjoy a good cocktail. Insider Tip: Visit during the week to avoid the crowd and try their snack menu, they are perfect to accompany a pool day!
Casa de Playa
This is a lesser-known alternative that combines a relaxing atmosphere with access to a refreshing pool. They offer competitive prices and a family-friendly atmosphere. Insider Tip: If you like live music, check their schedule because they often have events with local musicians on weekends.
Where to eat or drink
La Cava de Don Manuel
This place is known for its cozy atmosphere and wide selection of wines. Ideal for relaxing after a day in the sun. Insider Tip: Don't miss the cheese board, which pairs perfectly with the local wines. Ask the staff for recommendations; they are very knowledgeable and will be happy to help you.
Restaurante La Canoa
An iconic spot with typical dishes from the Caribbean region. Their specialty is fresh fish, which varies depending on the day's catch. Insider Tip: Go early to enjoy the daily menu options, which are more affordable and allow you to try several authentic flavors.
El Mercado
This place stands out for its gastronomic proposal that mixes fresh ingredients from the region with modern techniques. Ideal for lovers of creative cuisine. Insider Tip: Ask about the chef's specials; they often use seasonal ingredients that are not on the standard menu.
Bar El Gato
A popular bar among locals, known for its relaxed atmosphere and unique cocktails. It is an excellent place to start the night. Insider Tip: Try the passion fruit cocktail; it is one of the house specialties and will not disappoint you.