The myth that El Rodadero is just a crowded beach
If someone tells you that El Rodadero is just the strip of sand facing the avenue with coconut vendors, fast food stalls, and loud music, don't believe them. That's what tourists see when they arrive by bus from Bogotá, get off at the roundabout, rent an umbrella, and leave. But those of us who live here know that the real Rodadero is hidden behind the hotels, among cliffs, mangroves, and coves that only open up when the tide goes out. In June 2026, with the holiday season in full swing and the main beaches packed, it's worth getting to know these corners that few seek out.
Here you won't find official guides or signs saying "secret beach." This is more about walking carefully, asking the hotel security guard if you can pass, or following the trail of a dirt path that no one marked on Google Maps. I'll tell you how to get to those coves that seem like something out of a dream, without paying for tours or having to wake up at the crack of dawn.
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What to do at the hidden beaches of El Rodadero
The charm of these coves isn't in the infrastructure — which is almost non-existent — but in the feeling of having discovered something that others miss. The plan here is simple: bring your own water, some food, a towel, and a strong desire for silence. The sea is usually calmer than on the main beach, with gentle waves that invite you to float without getting knocked over.
Besides swimming, you can snorkel along the rocky shores, where you can see colorful fish and sometimes even starfish. But be careful with sea urchins: wear water shoes if you don't want to end up with a spine stuck in you. Some people also bring inflatable kayaks, but you have to carry them along the trails, so it's better if it's lightweight.
Another activity locals recommend is looking for shells and snails in the sand when the tide is low. Don't take anything alive, but empty shells make a nice souvenir. And if you're lucky, in the afternoons you can see herons and pelicans fishing near the rocks.
Fun fact: in some of these coves, local artisanal fishermen still keep their wooden boats, and if they like you, they might take you for a ride around the bay. There's no fixed price, but they usually accept 20,000 or 30,000 COP.
Where to eat or drink near the coves
Don't expect restaurants with a sea view on these hidden beaches. Most don't even have a kiosk. But there are options nearby, right at the entrance of the trails or on the streets adjacent to the hotels. Here are the ones I like best:
Starting point: Don Jaime's store
On Calle 10 with Carrera 2, right where the trail that borders the Hotel Irotama begins, there is a neighborhood store that sells cold sodas, empanadas (1,500 COP each), and natural juices. Don Jaime, the owner, gives you directions on how to get to the cove without getting into trouble. It's open from 7am to 7pm, but if you arrive later, you'll have to bring your own supplies.
Restaurante Mar Azul (entrance to Playa Salguero)
This is a fast food stand on Carrera 3 with Calle 14, a five-minute walk from the beach behind the Hotel Zuana. They sell fried fish with rice and patacón for 18,000 COP, and ice-cold beers for 4,000 COP. It's not gourmet, but after swimming it tastes like heaven. They're open from 11am to 6pm, only until the fish runs out.
The kiosk on the main beach (to stock up before going)
If you prefer to buy everything before venturing out, on the main beach of El Rodadero there are several kiosks that sell water, cut fruit, and sandwiches. I recommend the one on the corner of Carrera 1 and Calle 8: they have bags of ice for 2,000 COP and you can ask them to pack a lunch to go. Prices: a typical lunch (rice, chicken, salad, and juice) costs around 15,000 COP.
How to get there and transportation to the secret beaches
Getting to these coves isn't complicated, but it requires walking a bit and having a good attitude. There are no buses that drop you off at the door. Here I explain the main routes, all starting from the center of El Rodadero (the main roundabout, where the fisherman's monument is).
Cove behind the Hotel Irotama
From the roundabout, walk south along Carrera 2 (the road that borders the beach). After about 15 minutes, you'll see the entrance to the Hotel Irotama. Don't go in through the reception; instead, continue straight to the end of the street, where there is a metal gate with a sign that says "No trespassing." Ignore it (respectfully) and go around the side; there is a dirt trail that goes down between the trees. In 5 minutes you'll reach a white sand cove, almost always empty. However, it only works at low tide; when the tide rises, the water covers all the sand and you have to climb up onto the rocks.
Practical tip: Low tide is usually between 9am and 11am, and then between 3pm and 5pm. Check a tide table or ask Don Jaime before you go.
Playa Salguero (the hidden one behind the Hotel Zuana)
This one is better known among locals, but tourists hardly ever get there. From the roundabout, take a bus south (route "Rodadero - Bello Horizonte", 2,200 COP) and get off at the Hotel Zuana stop, about 10 minutes away. Walk towards the beach along Calle 14, but instead of going straight to the sea, turn right down an alley next to the hotel. There's a wooden door there that is sometimes open; if not, you have to go around via the public beach of Salguero and walk north along the shore. In total, about a 20-minute walk from the stop. The beach is wider than the one at Irotama, with palm trees providing natural shade.
Reference price (June 2026): The bus costs 2,200 COP. If you take a taxi from the roundabout, it's about 8,000 COP.
The fishermen's cove (behind the former Hotel Tamacá)
This is the best-kept secret. The Hotel Tamacá is no longer operating, but the land is still there, on Carrera 1 with Calle 12. From the roundabout, walk north along the main beach for about 10 minutes, until you reach the hotel ruins. Behind the abandoned building there is a stone staircase that goes down to a tiny cove, almost hidden among the rocks. It only fits about 10 people, but the water is crystal clear and there is a natural pool where the sea calms down. It's perfect for reading or meditating. However, there is no shade, so bring an umbrella or sunscreen.
Safety: This area is somewhat lonely, so it's better to go with company and not leave belongings in sight. Take only what you need.
Local tips
- Bring cash: The neighborhood stores and kiosks don't accept cards. Withdraw money from the Éxito ATM in El Rodadero (Carrera 2 with Calle 9) before you leave.
- Biodegradable sunscreen: The sea in these coves is more fragile, and the corals near the rocks are damaged by chemicals. Don Jaime's store sells eco-friendly sunscreen for 25,000 COP.
- Don't leave trash: There is no garbage collection service on these beaches. Bring a bag for your waste and throw it in the bins on the main avenue.
- Recommended times: Arrive before 10am to get a good spot and avoid the strong midday sun. After 2pm, the heat is intense and the tide rises.
- Friendly security guards: If a hotel security guard tells you that you can't pass, be polite and explain that you just want to get to the beach. Sometimes they'll let you through if you don't make a fuss. Don't insist if they are firm; it's better to look for another entrance.
- Appropriate footwear: The rocks can be sharp and there are sea urchins. Water sandals or old sneakers are better than flip-flops.
- No cell signal: In several coves, neither Claro nor Movistar works. Download the map of the area on Google Maps before you go, or better yet, print a screenshot.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to go alone to these beaches?
In general, yes, but with caution. The coves behind Irotama and Salguero are relatively safe because there is activity from fishermen and neighbors. The one at Tamacá is more isolated, so I don't recommend going alone, especially for women. Always let someone know where you are going and bring your phone with a charged battery, even if there's no signal.
Do I need to pay an entrance fee or get a permit?
No, they are all public beaches because in Colombia beaches are free to access by law. However, to get there you have to cross land that is sometimes owned by hotels or is private. If a security guard blocks your way, look for another route or come back another day. Don't pay anyone who charges you a "right of way."
Are there bathrooms or showers nearby?
Not in the coves. The closest ones are in the hotels, but they won't let you in if you're not a guest. The option is to use the public bathrooms on the main beach (2,000 COP entrance fee) before you leave, or do your business in the bushes carefully and away from the water. Bring toilet paper and a bag for waste.
Which is the best cove to go with children?
Playa Salguero (behind the Hotel Zuana) is the most recommended because the sand is soft, the water is shallow, and there is shade from palm trees. The one at Irotama has rocks and the current is a bit stronger, so you have to watch the little ones. The one at Tamacá is very small and rocky, not suitable for children.
Can I camp on these beaches?
Technically it's not prohibited, but it's not safe or comfortable. There is no surveillance, and at night the tide rises and can cover the sand. Also, mosquitoes are intense at dusk. It's better to look for a hostel in El Rodadero (there are some from 40,000 COP per night) and come back the next day.
Now that you know where these coves are, dare to break the routine. Share on social media the one you liked most from this list and tag an explorer friend so next time you don't go alone. El Rodadero has more than it seems, you just have to know how to look behind the hotels.
Historical or contextual introduction
El Rodadero, famous for its vibrant tourist life, wasn't always like this. At the end of the 19th century, this area was a small fishing settlement, far from the hustle and bustle and development we know today. With the tourism boom in the mid-20th century, El Rodadero transformed into a preferred destination for nationals and foreigners, leading to the construction of #us hotels and restaurants along its coast. However, despite modernization, there are corners that retain the essence of its history.
Exploring beyond the main beach offers an opportunity to discover the hidden history of El Rodadero and enjoy quieter spaces. Here I share some places you can visit for an authentic experience:
Playa Blanca
Insider Tip: This beach is located just a few minutes by boat from El Rodadero. It is known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters. Bring your own lunch and an umbrella to enjoy a relaxing day away from the city noise.
Los Cocos
Insider Tip: This beach, accessible via a small trail, is ideal for those seeking a quieter atmosphere. Bring your sunglasses and a good book, and enjoy the shade provided by the coconut trees. It's a perfect place to disconnect and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.