Things To Do
in Polonuevo
Polonuevo is a small coastal municipality in Atlántico, Colombia, tucked along the Caribbean lowlands near the Magdalena River. It blends rural farmland with riverine views, offering a tranquil pace just a short ride from bigger cities. The town exudes warm hospitality, colorful plazas, and easy access to the nearby Atlantic coastline.
Visitors can enjoy authentic Caribbean flavors, scenic river walks, and a convenient base for exploring the Barranquilla metropolitan area while retaining a village-like charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small coastal town of Polonuevo. Settle in at a charming local hotel or guesthouse that captures the essence of Colombian hospitality. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring arepas and fresh fruit.
Take a stroll through the town, soaking in the colorful architecture that reflects local culture. Visit the artisan markets to shop for unique crafts and souvenirs that tell the story of the region. Engage with friendly locals to learn about Polonuevo's rich history.
Dine at a traditional restaurant where you can savor coastal dishes, such as fresh fish and coconut rice. As you enjoy your meal, listen to live música vallenata that fills the air. After dinner, enjoy a quiet evening walk along the beach under the starlit sky.
Wake up early and grab breakfast before heading to the nearby beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands, swimming in the Caribbean waters, or trying water sports like kayaking. Take in the views of the picturesque coastline and vibrant blue waves.
Visit a local beach bar for lunch and sip on refreshing tropical drinks. Spend the afternoon learning to surf or simply enjoying a sunbathing session with a good book. Capture the beautiful surroundings with photos of the spectacular landscape.
Participate in a beach bonfire organized by locals, where you can mingle and exchange stories with fellow travelers. Indulge in grilled seafood delicacies prepared right on the shore. As the sun sets, enjoy live music and the cheerful ambiance that brings everyone together.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.50-1 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 💧Water (1.5L bottle) | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Barranquilla with easy access to city amenities
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, authentic Caribbean vibe
- Beautiful river and coastal scenery with photography opportunities
- Affordably priced food, lodging, and activities
- Limited nightlife and fewer 24/7 services within Polonuevo
- Smaller tourist infrastructure compared with larger cities
- Hot and humid climate; occasional heavy rains during the wet season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Cuál es la recomendación?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Polonuevo
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts, local life, and the central church create a vibrant scene for street photography at all hours.
Colonial-style church with simple lines and morning light perfect for architectural shots.
Open viewpoints along the river provide wide horizons and golden hour silhouettes.
Dramatic sunsets, fishing boats, and the long pier offer classic Caribbean coastal photography.
Fields, palms, and small farms along the outskirts provide tranquil, pastoral images.
Food in Polonuevo
Polonuevo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A cornmeal arepa stuffed with fried egg, a popular coastal snack found at markets and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Coconut-infused rice commonly served with fried fish, a staple pairing on coastal tables.
Creamy seafood stew featuring shrimp, mussels, and fish, often enjoyed with white rice or corn tortillas.
Thick fried plantain slices topped with grilled or fried fish and fresh toppings for a crisp, flavorful bite.
Coastal version of the traditional Colombian stew with meats, tubers, and herbs, rich in regional flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily stalls offering fresh produce, seafood, arepas, and regional snacks—great for tasting local flavors firsthand.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous handshake with a smile is common; address others with polite language and use usted for strangers and elders.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or formal spaces; avoid loud public displays of anger. Ask permission before photographing people, especially families and children.
Family-oriented culture; arrive on time for planned gatherings but be flexible with punctuality in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Polonuevo
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically add a service charge in cities; if not, a 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service. For taxis or street vendors, rounding up the fare is common but not required.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Cards are commonly accepted in larger restaurants and hotels in the Barranquilla area; carry some cash for rural areas and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season runs roughly December to March. Expect sunny days, lower humidity, and ideal beach conditions. Breezes from the sea help keep temperatures comfortable, though it remains hot during mid-day.
April to November brings frequent tropical showers and higher humidity. Lush landscapes return, river levels rise, and outdoor plans may need flexibility around rains.
Polonuevo at Night
Hiking in Polonuevo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, accessible trails along rivers and palm groves suitable for easy day hikes and nature photography.
Moderate walks along beachfront dunes and lookout points offering sea views and sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Polonuevo by plane.
Located in Barranquilla, this is the nearest major international airport, providing regional and international flights. Typical transfer time from Polonuevo is about 30-60 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Cartagena’s international gateway, a longer drive from Polonuevo but feasible for combined itineraries; serves regional and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse cultural makeup with family-centered communities and strong traditions in music, food, and local festivals.
A mix of locals who have grown up in the area and newcomers attracted by coastal opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local leagues and community games in towns like Polonuevo and nearby Barranquilla.
Common in schools and community centers; casual street games and local leagues occur in towns along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Polonuevo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in markets and few restaurants. Look for plantain-based dishes, rice with beans, vegetables sautéed with coconut milk, and fresh fruit. When in doubt, ask for verduras al vapor (steamed vegetables) or plátano asado (grilled plantains) as a side.