TAGANGASituated around the headland to the east of Santa Marta, Taganga has risen to become the caribbean coast's backpacker capital.As recently as the 1990s Taganga was a quiet fishing village like many others in the region. This laidback ambience, along with its proximity to Santa Marta and pretty setting, has seen its popularity soar, particularly among budget travellers. As such the town is now a peculiar blend of the traditional and the modern: small local restaurants line up next to shiny dive shops, an increasing number of which are foreign-owned. The seafront has had a recent makeover, with the old pot-holed and dirt streets being attractively paved over. Along the short seafront are numerous eateries (also recently renovated) offering freshly caught fish with cocunut rice, and still at reasonably prices. You can also buy a variety of delicious freshly made juices served in very generous quantities.
The beach is nice for a stroll, but doesn't benefit from the golden sands present at most other places in the region. That said, the hot weather tempts many to strip down and take a dip in the calm warm water. A large part of the beach is used by fishing boats and diving craft so most people congregate at the Santa Marta end of the beach near the Casa Blanca Hostel.
Scuba DivingThere are now many dive shops offering day trips and longer excursions. Most of the dive shops are located in Taganga, but there are also a few reputable shops in Santa Marta. Prices are pretty reasoanly compared to other countries. Pretty much all tours take you into Parque Tayrona, situated just along the shore to the east. Hostels / Hotels in TagangaLa Casa de Felipe: Tel. (5) 4219101, Cel. 3163189158 website One of the town's original hostels and still one of the best. Located about a 5 minute walk from the beach.Includes internet, Cable TV, laundry service, breakfast and kitchen, plus lots of tourist info. Recommended. Bayview Hostel: Cra 4 No. 17B-57, Tel. (5) 4219128, Cel. 3174342292 website Another popular choice is Bayview Hostel. Internet, kitchen, laundry service, tourist info, and shuttle to and from Parque Tayrona. Hostal Techos Azules: Sector Dunkarinka CabaNa 1-100, Tel. (5) 4219141, Cel. 3166480731 website Situated up on the hill just outside town, Hostal Techos Azules affords great views over the bay. Ideal if you want to distance yourself from the hstle and bustle of the toursits. Casa Blanca: Tel. (5) 4219232, Cel. 3008054968, 3163184556 email: barbus85@latinmail.com The Casa Blanca Hostel is conspicuously located at the eastern end of Taganga right on the beach and another of the backpacker favourites. Kitchen and social areas including balconies. And the ocean is about a 10 second walk! Hotel Pelikan: Cra 2 No. 17-04, Tel. (5)4219057 Located just one block off the beach, friendly Hotel Pelikan contains comfortable rooms and includes kitchen, breakfast and laundry service. TransportTaganga is located just a 6 or 7 minute-ride from Santa Marta. Taxis charge about 7000 pesos. Mini buses run regularly to and from Santa Marta and can be caught from Carrera 1 in Santa Marta and at the entrance point to the village of Taganga. 
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