Historical or contextual introduction
Crespo is that Cartagena neighborhood that many tourists overlook, but locals love. Located north of the city, between the Rafael Núñez airport and the exclusive Bocagrande sector, Crespo is known for its quiet beach and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike other tourist areas of Cartagena, here you'll find more Cartagenans than foreign visitors.
The neighborhood's name comes from Francisco Crespo, who was governor of the Cartagena province in the 18th century. Although not as old as the historic center, Crespo has its own history: in the 60s and 70s it was the preferred place for Cartagena's upper-middle class to build their vacation homes, many of which are still preserved.
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What to do
The main attraction of Crespo is undoubtedly its beach. With calmer waters than Bocagrande and less crowded than Barú Island, it's the perfect place for a relaxing day. Here you can:
- Sunbathe on chairs and umbrellas rented by locals
- Swim in crystal-clear and shallow waters, ideal for children
- Walk along the boardwalk at sunset
- Watch planes taking off and landing at the nearby airport
It's also worth exploring the neighborhood streets, where you'll find colorful colonial houses and small family businesses. If you like soccer, you can join the locals in the beach games played in the afternoons.
Where to eat or drink
Crespo is not known for its nightlife, but it has some must-visit places to eat:
El Arabe Gourmet
On Calle del Arsenal, this small restaurant offers delicious Lebanese food with a Caribbean twist. Try the fried kibbeh and homemade hummus. Dishes from $25,000 COP.
La Cevichería Crespo
A classic for lovers of fresh seafood. Their mixed ceviche and coconut rice are the most ordered. Open Monday to Sunday, 12pm-9pm.
Bar La Terraza
The only beach bar in Crespo, ideal for having a cold beer while watching the sunset. Prices from $8,000 COP for a national beer.
How to get there and transportation
Crespo is only 3 km from Cartagena's historic center. You can easily get there by:
- Taxi: A ride from the center costs around $15,000 COP (as of April 2026). It's the fastest and most comfortable option.
- Public bus: Take the route that says "Crespo" from Parque de la Marina. The fare costs $2,800 COP.
- Walking: If you like to walk, you can get there from Bocagrande in about 25 minutes via the boardwalk.
Once in Crespo, everything is accessible on foot. If you have heavy luggage, it's better to take a taxi to/from the airport, as it's very close.
Local tips
- Avoid swimming outside marked areas, as there are strong currents in some parts.
- Bring cash, as many small businesses don't accept cards.
- If you want to avoid crowds, visit the beach on weekdays.
- Negotiate the prices for beach chairs and umbrellas, especially if you're in a group.
- Don't take photos of residents without their permission, especially children.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to walk around Crespo?
Yes, Crespo is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Cartagena. However, as in any tourist place, it's advisable to keep an eye on your belongings, especially at the beach.
Are there hotels in Crespo?
Crespo mainly has apartments and vacation homes for rent, although there are some small boutique hotels. For a wider variety of options, Bocagrande is just a few minutes away.
How close is it to the airport?
The Rafael Núñez airport is literally next to Crespo. It's about a 15-minute walk to the terminal, although with luggage it's better to take a taxi (less than $10,000 COP). The noise from planes is noticeable but not excessive.