At Playa Koralia, less than an hour outside of Santa Marta, a poetic calmness is idealized; not counting the loud and colorful paintings done in a Latin American and Asian style by Patricia Nieto, the owner’s sister.

The Guardian’s article “Colombia on a natural high” uses Playa Koralia as an example of supreme chillness and says that Shakira booked in here to get away from it all. Owner Jose Luis Nieto encourages relaxation, and will even confiscate laptops.

Chill outside in simplistic hammocks while gazing at the beach, but once inside your cabin, you’ll wish sleeping at the beach always felt like being an Arab Sheikh. The interior decoration is based on inspiration from pre-Columbian symbology, popular Mexican art, Indian Rajastan and the Mediterranean. Camping is also available if you have your own tent.

Koralia offers the chance to observe local handicrafts being made, canoe trips, jungle hikes to waterfalls, mountain hikes, snorkeling, massages, flower baths, etc…

But, the best part is that this is no ordinary eco-lodge; there is stuff to do here after dark. In addition to a restaurant with a menu inspired by Caribbean, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, there is a bar on the beach that has live music and bonfires.

Location:
Santa Marta, Colombia

Hotel

This Hotel is: High End

Hotel Amenities, Services and Facilities Restaurant, Bar, Breakfast Included, Travel Info Desk, Lounge, Airport Pickup - Extra Charge, Child-Friendly Facilities, Sauna, Common Room, Taxes Included in Price

Currencies accepted
Colombian Peso

Getting There:
There are two options:

1) Fly into Barranquilla International Airport (less than two hours away).

2) Fly into the Santa Marta National Airport (less than an hour away).

Then, Playa Koralia offers a pick-up and drop-off transportation for a fee.

Room Prices:
Lower:$45 per person for camping
Higher:$129 per person for the Suite
Price Description:$101 per person for a Standard Room

$112 per person for a Junior Suite

Prices include taxes and all meals.

Because of the location, Playa Koralia does not accept credit cards.

Contact Information:
Phone: (57) - 310 - 6422 574
E-mail: koralia(at)remove-this.koralia.com
URL: www.koralia.com

By Tammy Portnoy

By trade, I am a writer/editor/journalist. I have a degree in Spanish and a degree in magazine journalism, from what calls itself the oldest...

Created: 21 Apr 2008

Updated: 15 May 2009

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Reviews

Traveler Reviews of Playa Koralia

Truly an escape

Here you are removed from the rest of the world - living your own private fantasy beach life!

Traveler from New York on Nov 06, 2008