Things To Do
in San Juan de Urabá
San Juan de Urabá is a small coastal municipality in the Urabá region of Antioquia, Colombia, perched on the Gulf of Urabá with a strong fishing heritage. The town blends Afro-Colombian and riverine influences, offering a laid-back atmosphere and colorful markets. Expect warm hospitality, vibrant seafood cuisine, and scenic views of mangrove-lined shores and the tropical coast.
It serves as a quieter gateway to the Gulf of Urabá for travelers seeking authentic coastal Colombia away from the crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the quaint streets of San Juan de Urabá's historic center, where colonial architecture tells the story of its past. Visit the beautiful Church of San Juan Bautista, known for its intricate wooden altar and serene ambiance, perfect for reflection. Enjoy a refreshing local breakfast at a nearby café, savoring arepas and fresh fruit juice as you soak in the morning atmosphere.
After lunch, explore the local market, where vibrant stalls offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional snacks. Engage with friendly vendors, and consider picking up some unique souvenirs to take home. As the afternoon sun casts long shadows, take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, enjoying the views and vibrant local life.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to indulge in a dinner of fresh seafood, a specialty of San Juan de Urabá. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter, as you taste dishes like fried fish and coconut rice. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the gentle breeze and the sounds of the night.
Rise early and head to the stunning beaches of San Juan de Urabá, such as Playa de la Ciénaga, where the golden sands meet clear waters. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the idyllic surroundings with a good book in hand. Try your hand at building sandcastles or beach volleyball with locals for some fun and interaction.
After a delicious beachside lunch featuring grilled fish and tropical fruit, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters. Glide over the gentle waves and take in the lush coastal scenery, perhaps spotting some local wildlife along the way. Relax on the beach afterward, sipping on a refreshing beverage while soaking up the sun.
As the evening approaches, return to the beach to witness a breathtaking sunset painting the sky with vibrant hues. Indulge in a beach barbecue, where you can enjoy local delicacies cooked right in front of you. Spend the night listening to the rhythmic sounds of the ocean and perhaps joining a local gathering around a fire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One-night hotel in town center | $40-70 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3-5 km) | $2-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.33L) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery with warm, welcoming communities
- Fresh seafood and affordable prices
- Compact town center that's easy to explore on foot
- Limited tourist infrastructure outside the main town
- Seasonal rainfall can affect some activities
- Some remote areas may have safety risks; plan with locals
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in San Juan de Urabá
Visit one of these nice places.
Fishermen at work with rustic docks, weathered boats, and colorful nets—great for golden-hour portraits and candid life.
Small beach area ideal for sunrise photography, with soft light and reflectivity on calm waters.
Wide promenade along the gulf; perfect for wide coastal landscapes and street photography at sunset.
Waterfront scenes with mangroves, boats, and local activity; good for silhouettes and nature shots.
Food in San Juan de Urabá
San Juan de Urabá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly fried whole fish served with fried plantain slices; a seaside staple found at many eateries near the docks.
Must-Try!
Coconut rice cooked with coconut milk, a common accompaniment to seafood and grilled fish.
Seasoned seafood stew featuring a variety of local catches with tomatoes, peppers, and herbs.
Light fish soup often enjoyed as a comforting, aromatic lunch or dinner.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily stalls offering fresh produce, fish, and prepared snacks; ideal for sampling local ingredients.
Sunset spots where cooks grill pescado, serve empanadas de carne o yuca frita, and fresh juice stands line the shore.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings with a handshake or a nod are common; addressing elders with courtesy is valued. Avoid loud, confrontational behavior in public.
Ask permission before photographing people and private spaces; show appreciation for local crafts and fisheries.
Safety
Tipping in San Juan de Urabá
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small eateries; leave small change or rounding up for good service. In larger restaurants, a 5–10% tip is common if service is not included.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places are starting to accept cards. Have some local currency on hand for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days with lower humidity and less rain. Pleasant for beach time, outdoor walks, and boat trips, though afternoons can be warm.
Frequent showers, strong humidity, and lush greenery. Best for river and mangrove excursions, but carry rain gear and plan for possible afternoon downpours.
San Juan de Urabá at Night
Hiking in San Juan de Urabá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hikes through mangroves along the coast, ideal for birdwatching and sea breeze photography.
Shaded trails along riverbanks just outside town, suitable for all ages and offers cooling shade.
Airports
How to reach San Juan de Urabá by plane.
Regional airport with daily flights to Medellín and Bogotá; typically a 1.5–2 hour drive to San Juan de Urabá.
Occasional charter flights; serves as an additional access point to the Gulf of Urabá region; travel from there to San Juan by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core part of the town’s culture with distinct music, crafts, and culinary traditions.
Mestizo and Afro-Colombian populations contribute to a rich cultural blend reflected in markets and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, widely watched and played in local leagues and schools.
Casual volleyball, swimming, and boat-based activities common along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Juan de Urabá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include rice and beans, plantains, fresh fruit, salads, and vegetable stews; communicate clearly with cooks and consider pescatarian choices if needed.