8 Best Hotels in The Caribbean Coast, Colombia

A working organic farm that stretches from the coast into the hills, La Jorará offers an unbeatable experience---picture a fresh mountain stream running down from the hills to the wild, deserted beach that's bordered by lush trees that hang heavy with fruit. Spread over three lodges, the accommodations have a farm-style rusticity that integrates with the lush surrounding gardens. There's plenty to do during the day: climb up to breathtaking lookout points; splash in the river's natural pools; or take a tour of the banana plantation. Come sunset, stretch out in a hammock and listen to the forest come alive, and then saunter down to the main house for dinner at large communal tables.

If you are looking to stay on outlying Isla Barú, this beautiful beachside home turned intimate B&B run by friendly host Olga is a perfect getaway tucked into a quiet corner of the island. The white-painted rooms are cool and spacious, open to the elements beyond the flowing white curtains, and though simple, have real rustic heart. There's no a/c, but a fan takes the edge off the heat. The shady beach, although not perfect white sand with crystal clear water, remains empty most of the day, and the calm waters are good for swimming. The hosts will happily help organize snorkeling trips to the Islas del Rosario or a visit to nearby Aviario de Colombia, the country's best and newest bird sanctuary, with some 135 species. The food is reasonably priced and well-prepared, and after dinner, all that remains is to take a seat next to the bonfire on the beach, dig your toes deep into the sand, and relax.

This colonial-era mansion once hosted Simón Bolívar; today it's a superbly decorated boutique hotel with a nod to the building's illustrious past. The hotel's numerous common spaces walk a line between modern and folkloric, while the guest rooms are airy and cool (there's a/c) with comfortable bathrooms. The suites are particularly spacious---there's one with a small dipping pool. The breakfasts are a standout.

A traditional Mompox home located in the middle of town, Bioma is centered around a courtyard with a blessedly welcome swimming pool. Rooms are basic but comfortable beds, stylish bathrooms, and wood furniture add the necessary charm. A highlight is the rooftop deck and Jacuzzi, with views over the town. The warmth of the customer service at this family-run hotel is notable, from a chilled welcome drink to the service in the restaurant and the efficient organization of any desired day trips.

This double-story bed-and-breakfast is a soothing haven tucked right on the beach. Downstairs, an open kitchen and lounge area are decorated with rustic touches and wood and white details. Numerous hammocks hang between the surrounding palms and a daybed with flowing white curtains encourages a lazy afternoon. En suite rooms maintain the easygoing style with lovely four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets.

This attractive beachside eco-lodge is built around the principles of slow tourism and provides a wonderful place to lay your head within easy earshot of the waves. Rooms are light and spacious, with a rustic, locally influenced design that incorporates plenty of bamboo and palm thatching and is cooled using natural ventilation spaces between the roof and the walls. Bathrooms are a treat, with the shower open to the sky, surrounded by plants that soak up and then purify the runoff water.