Things To Do
in Puerto Colombia

Small mornings market where fishermen bring fresh catch — good for seeing local produce and buying fish to be cooked at nearby eateries.

Evening stalls along the waterfront selling empanadas, arepas de huevo, coconut water and fresh fruit juices — try the fried fish sandwiches or ceviche cups.

Greet people warmly — a handshake or a single cheek kiss among acquaintances is common. Use polite Spanish greetings (buenos días, buenas tardes).

Use formal forms (usted) when speaking with elders or in formal situations until invited to use tú.

Coastal casual dress is normal for daytime; avoid overly loud or drunken behavior in residential areas and respect local norms around religious sites.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially fishermen and vendors, and consider offering to pay a small fee for posed portraits.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory; in sit-down restaurants a 10% service charge may be included — if not, leaving 10% for good service is normal. Tip small amounts to guides, hotel porters and drivers when appropriate.

Colombian pesos (COP) are standard. Cards are accepted in larger restaurants and hotels but many small vendors, markets and beach kiosks are cash-only. Use ATMs in Barranquilla for the best availability and carry smaller bills for purchases.

The sunniest, most comfortable time to visit with less rainfall, lower humidity and calmer seas — ideal for beach time and boat trips. Expect higher visitor numbers around holidays (Christmas and Easter).

Rainfall increases with occasional heavy showers and higher humidity; mornings can still be sunny, but plan flexible outdoor activities.

A relative lull in rain with warm temperatures — still humid but many clear days for outdoor excursions.

A wetter stretch with frequent storms and rougher seas; some boat operators reduce schedules and certain low-lying areas may flood briefly.

Local residents with strong coastal cultural identity — warm, rhythmic speech and food traditions tied to the sea.

Significant Afro-Caribbean influence in music, cuisine and traditions along the coast; their cultural contributions shape local life.

Many families rely on fishing, tourism and small-scale commerce — you’ll encounter family-run eateries and vendors throughout town.

Domestic tourists from Barranquilla and occasional international travelers visiting for the pier, beaches, or as a stopover to larger destinations.

Vegetarian options are more limited but available: rice and bean dishes, plantain or potato-based meals, fresh fruit and vegetable sides. Ask for seafood-free versions of coconut rice and request substituted protein.

Vegan choices require more effort — rely on fruit, salads, rice, fried plantains and beans; communicate clearly (in Spanish) that no animal products should be used in preparation.

Many coastal dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, fish, coconut-based dishes), but fried items may be coated in wheat flour. Ask vendors about ingredients and cross-contamination.

Seafood is central — if you have shellfish or fish allergies, make this explicit in Spanish and avoid busy coastal kiosks that handle both seafood and other items.