Things To Do
in Juan de Acosta
Juan de Acosta is a small Caribbean coastal town in Atlántico, Colombia, located just north of Barranquilla along the turquoise sea. The area is known for its long beaches, palm-lined shores, and a relaxed, fishing-village atmosphere. Visitors come for sun, seafood, and easy access to the broader coastal culture of the Atlántico region.
With convenient road links to Barranquilla and Puerto Colombia, it makes for a laid-back beach escape close to urban amenities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, where you can sample traditional Colombian arepas and fresh fruit juices. After fueling up, take a leisurely stroll through the main square, soaking in the colorful architecture and lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the local artisan shops to pick up handcrafted souvenirs that showcase the region’s culture.
In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Church of San Juan Bautista, which showcases stunning colonial architecture and intricate details. Afterward, head to a nearby restaurant to savor a traditional lunch of sancocho, a hearty Colombian stew. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through local markets, engaging with friendly vendors, and tasting fresh tropical fruits.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk along the town's main plaza, where locals gather to socialize and relax. Indulge in a delicious dinner at a local eatery, sampling fresh seafood dishes that highlight the coastal flavors of the region. Cap off the evening with a visit to a small bar or café for live music, immersing yourself in the local culture.
After breakfast, take a short drive to the stunning beaches of Puerto Colombia, where soft sands and warm waters await. Spend your morning sunbathing, swimming, or even trying your hand at beach volleyball with locals. The gentle breeze and the sound of waves create the perfect ambiance for relaxation.
In the afternoon, indulge in a seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants, where you can feast on freshly caught fish and ceviche. Afterward, explore the vibrant beach scene, renting a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the tranquil waters. Take a moment to appreciate the picturesque views of the coastline and surrounding palm trees.
As the day winds down, enjoy a magnificent sunset over the Caribbean Sea, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Head back to Juan de Acosta and enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery, perhaps trying the area’s specialty, fried fish with coconut rice. Finish your evening with a stroll through town, taking in the sights and sounds of nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Short taxi or bus ride | $1-5 |
| 💧Bottled water | $0.50-1 |
| 🏖️Beach chair rental | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed beach vibe and friendly locals
- Close to Barranquilla for urban access and transport
- Limited high-end nightlife within Juan de Acosta
- Infrastructure can be basic outside the town center
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "Gracias" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Juan de Acosta
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over white sand and turquoise water provides ideal silhouettes of palm trees and early beachgoers.
Iconic lighthouse with water's edge views; great for long-exposure seascapes and coastal silhouettes.
Colorful boats, nets drying in the sun, and daily life along the shore offer vibrant foregrounds and candid scenes.
Boardwalks along calm waterways with birdlife and reflections—perfect for nature photography.
Golden hour shots of the coastline with silhouettes of palm trees and distant Barranquilla lights.
Food in Juan de Acosta
Juan de Acosta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A crispy arepa filled with a fried egg; enjoy it from street stalls near the beach.
Must-Try!
Whole fried fish served with fried plantain slices; a coastal staple found at most beachfront eateries.
Rich seafood stew with shrimp, squid, and mussels in a tomato-coconut broth.
A hearty fish soup with root vegetables and herbs, often shared among families at lunch spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh fish, tropical fruits, and everyday staples; great for picking up ingredients or trying prepared seafood dishes.
Casual vendors along the Juan de Acosta coastline offering fried fish, patties, arepas, and seasonal fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends is common. Use polite terms like por favor and gracias.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or more traditional neighborhoods. Keep voices respectful in public and on public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Juan de Acosta
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is common if service is not included. Small tips to taxi drivers for help with luggage or extra effort are appreciated but not required.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places near the coast also accept cards. ATMs are available in larger towns nearby; carry some local currency for markets and street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright sunny days with lower humidity; ideal for beach days, swimming, and outdoor photography. Light evening breezes make dinners comfortable outdoors.
Higher humidity with short, refreshing tropical showers. Lush landscapes and greenery—great for green photography, but check brief rain advisories before outdoor plans.
Warm and humid with sporadic rain. Good balance of beach time and cultural activities; carry water and a light rain jacket.
Juan de Acosta at Night
Hiking in Juan de Acosta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, flat trail along tidal waterways; ideal for a half-day hike with birdwatching and water views.
Low-difficulty route along the shoreline with opportunities to observe marine life and coastal landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Juan de Acosta by plane.
Primary international and domestic gateway for the region, about a 30–60 minute drive to Juan de Acosta depending on traffic.
Alternative international gateway in the region; allows connections from other Colombian cities, though longer drive to Juan de Acosta.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo and Afro-Colombian communities with strong fishing and agricultural roots; welcoming, family-oriented culture.
Mostly Colombians from Barranquilla and surrounding towns, plus international tourists seeking beach escapes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved sport across the coast with local matches and community play.
Traditional coastal activity with local markets selling freshly caught seafood.
Common on the beaches, especially on weekends and holidays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Juan de Acosta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most eateries; look for plantain-based dishes, bean soups, yucca, rice, and salads. If fish and shellfish are off-limits, ask for vegetable stews or cheese-based dishes and request cooking with oil instead of animal fats.