Dare to Visit Colombia’s Only Nude Beach Inside Tayrona Natural Park

Boca del Saco, Colombia's sole nude beach, resides within the confines of Tayrona National Park. Nestled away in the park, this beach captivates visitors seeking a liberating and unadulterated beach experience. Situated a mere half-hour from Santa Marta, the capital of the Magdalena region, Boca del Saco entices adventurers with its secluded ambiance and untouched beauty.

Although not officially designated as a nude beach, its secluded location grants nudists an unofficial blessing. To access this hidden gem, travelers must venture to Tayrona National Park and Cabo San Juan beach. From Santa Marta, a 2-3 hour bus ride transports visitors to Cabo San Juan, where a trail leads to the main beach - Boca del Saco 1. Continuing on foot, one reaches Boca del Saco 2, the actual nude beach, located at the eastern end of the park's eastern area.

Juan Carlos Rodriguez, a contractor for Tayrona National Park, highlights Boca del Saco's seclusion as a key factor in its allure for eco-tourism. The beach's remoteness has helped preserve it as a pristine ecosystem, untouched by pollution and contamination. Local tourism guides attest that the beach's remoteness attracts eco-tourists, who are drawn to the area despite the lengthy hike required to reach it.

Swimming in the sea at Boca del Saco is not permitted; visitors are limited to enjoying the shallow waters along the shore. This nudist beach has gained popularity among social media influencers who champion body positivity and the mental health benefits of nudism, describing the experience as liberating. Thousands of photos of the beach have been tagged on social media platforms like Instagram.

There are two practical routes to reach Boca del Saco, both requiring foot travel. Option 1 involves a more adventurous trek through Calabazo/Pueblito. Starting from Santa Marta, take a bus or taxi to Calabazo, then hike towards Pueblito (Chairama). From Pueblito, follow the trail to Boca del Saco. This route is confirmed by Parques Nacionales, which states that Calabazo provides access to Pueblito, Cabo San Juan, and Boca del Saco.

Option 2 offers a less strenuous journey for those who prefer not to undertake the Pueblito trek. The route begins in Santa Marta, proceeding through El Zaino, Cañaveral, Arrecifes, La Piscina, Cabo San Juan, and finally to Boca del Saco. The last section is considerably more remote than the popular Cabo San Juan beach, providing an even more secluded experience.

Visitors should be aware of several important points when planning their trip to Boca del Saco. Firstly, Boca del Saco is not a conventional "nudist beach," and while naturism is associated with the beach, visitors should respect other individuals' choices and privacy. Taking identifiable photographs of nude visitors is strictly prohibited.

Additionally, it is crucial to check conditions before departing Santa Marta, as Tayrona can close individual sectors due to weather, environmental factors, or management measures. As of the latest updates, all four sectors are operational, but conditions may change.

The hike to Boca del Saco demands caution and preparation. Wear appropriate hiking shoes or sturdy sandals, carry ample water, use sun protection, and bring insect repellent. Parques Nacionales advises comfortable clothing, proper footwear, hydration, and insect protection. Swimming at the beach requires extra caution due to strong currents and changing sea conditions. Only swim in authorized areas and obey beach warnings, such as red flags.

To minimize luggage, bring only essential items for a day trip, including water, food/snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a waterproof pouch for your phone, and some cash. Single-use plastics, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited within the park, so ensure you leave these items at home.

For first-time visitors, Boca del Saco is best experienced as a full-day hiking excursion rather than a side excursion to other Tayrona attractions. Starting early is recommended, as the park has specific entry and exit times for sectors. While a guide is not mandatory for groups of fewer than eight people, it is advised, especially when using the Calabazo-Pueblito route.

Although not a requirement, Parques Nacionales suggests hiring a certified guide for first-time visitors to ensure safety and adherence to park regulations. Lastly, do not rely on Google Maps for walking routes, as trails and access conditions within a national park can change.