3 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.

As long as you have realistic expectations for an isolated hotel that caters to day-trippers, you'll find Majagua to be the best, most well-priced hotel on Isla Grande. The tiny beaches are decent, but most guests spend their days out and about, snorkeling the reefs, kayaking through the mangrove forest, or visiting the nearby aquarium. Once the day-tour crowds and hawkers leave, overnight guests can rent a stand-up paddleboard and head out for sunset, or simply grab a hammock or a deck chair and a cold coconut cocktail—this, after all, is why you're here. Food options are limited to the on-site restaurant, which offers tasty, seafood-driven fare at surprisingly reasonable prices. The hotel boats—which are an additional charge—leave Cartagena at 9 am and return at 3 pm; the trip can be choppy. Snorkeling tours with Dive Planet including transportation.