Eteka Slow Beach Hotel

This place has the potential to be an amazing experience but unfortunately there were SOOO many hiccups during my birthday experience and I honestly can not recommend this place to anyone for a special celebration I feel like it is very hit or MISS. . Prior to even touching down in Columbia, myself and two friends booked Eteka's day pass. I also booked a nook to be decorated for my birthday and myself and a friend booked massages. The day that I was set to head over to Eteka from the city, there was ALOT of rain in the morning. Luckily the rain stopped and we decided that we would head over on the last boat. I was in communication via Whatsapp that entire morning with a staff member for Eteka. in case we had to switch plans due to weather. I was told, the waters were safe and that we could head out on the last boat and I would still be able to get my massage etc. We arrived to the beach at 11:33 and the boat was already gone. They left at exactly 11:30. I understand that they have a schedule to adhere to but after being in communication all morning and sharing that it was my birthday I was hoping we would be given a little grace. Many of the streets of Cartegena were completely flooded and the drive over took twice the amount of time that it normally would. Another boat arrived around 12:05 pm -ish and we did not pull out until about 12:25; which is interesting because I thought they were so punctual. The entire time that my friends and I were waiting the staff member that checks you in prior to getting on the boat said that she couldn't find my freinds reservation. My friend had to pull up her receipt and show proof of payment; I don't know why they didnt have record of it. We finally get to the island and my friend was told that she couldn't get a massage because they initially didn't have record of her booking. I ended up getting a refund for my massage because the new time given just wouldn't work. Finally, once my nook was ready, I realized that the flower bouquet that I was told would be included was not there. When I inquired about it and showed a picture of what the nook was supposed to look like (picture was sent to me during my exchange with staff prior to booking) I wos told to wait and that it would be corrected. When I came back for the second reveal, flower petals were placed all over the floor and seats and table which was pretty and a nice touch but no bouquet. Lastly, the lunch was absolutely delicious but I asked THREE times if everything on the menu was included in the day-pass price and was told yes by our server. At the end, we had a bill of course and was told that the meal that we chose came with an additional cost. The flies were absolutely too much. I know that flies and insects are a part of nature but I have NEVER had an experience like this with flies. We could not relax and enjoy our meal; it was impossible. We wanted to take the lunch to go but they did not have to go containers. Sigh The beach was much quieter

The day pass option here was super affordable for transportation to and from the beach lounge, with food included. The food was amazing, and the staff was super friendly and welcoming. I would definitely recommend this beach lounge to people who are looking for a slow, relaxing experience. We had an amazing massage, and would love to return.

Over priced, over rated. Everyone was very nice but unfortunately there’s not much the staff can do if the conditions aren’t the best. Raw food, old fruits , tons of flies that make it impossible to eat outdoors, tiny beach, rooms poorly finished ( not even a spot to hang towels in a beach hotel) supposedly a place to have rest yet the waitress will follow you and knock your door thousand times to hand you the check. Plus, loud live music the entire afternoon . I still don’t get the full value proposition of this place. Try to be many things at one and can barely get couple right. Probably OK if you were paying 50% less than what you pay for absolutely everything. Probably just a good site for Instagram pictures but not a place to stay. Very sad about finding they’ve only do good decorating plenty of space and missed the whole point of being a hotel.

I can't believe there aren't more reviews here but this is a hidden gem in Cartagena (only 7 mins away by boat). We stayed overnight in the Evolution suite with a view of Cartagena and a jacuzzi terrace and it had a lovely Bohemian/Tulum/Bali vibe. The room and the grounds had many instagramable cute spots. The food was tasty and flavorful especially the surf and turf and they organized a lovely romantic dinner on the beach which the hostess did a great job with, even getting the music performer to come do an instrumental rendition of Happy Birthday. Luis and the whole staff were so kind and accommodating! The only cons were a couple of stray dogs that kept interrupting our dinner, looking for food. Although, this may not bother you if you like dogs but I think this should be better controlled as stray dogs pose a lot of health and safety issues and take away from the ambiance and experience. The only other issue or warning is that the ride back on the boat is bumpier then the ride there and the boot does not seem fit for the rough waters but wear your life vest and all worked our fine.

What a fabulous undiscovered place! The Éteka Slow Beach Hotel was a wonderful find where my family (husband and two adult children) spent three days in December. The vibe is unparalleled if you want a totally relaxing place. The staff is friendly and efficient, the food is great (other than the seafood boat, which consisted of all fried food), and the NO TV and NO WiFI rooms provide a perfect escape from the busyness of Cartagena. Choose the junior suites rather than single rooms which are in a concrete building. The suites are in hut-like structures while the rooms seem to lack light. The beaches are small and clean enough (but not pristine) and serve to remind us of our island location but if you long for beach walks, this isn't for you. Nevertheless, this is a place for a great escape and one that we'll revisit for years to come. The prices are reasonable: speed boat transport, breakfast, & accommodations are all included. Dinners and drinks for four for less than $100.