I went to both places and I really want to go back to enjoy the beaches. Santa Marta is very quiet, specially the Rodadero. There are so many hotels very comfortable and a reasonable price, big rooms, very friendly staff and free wifi.
Cartagena is nice, and has a lot to
see, but is very expensive and the sea is not so nice, street vendors are always trying to get your money somehow. If I was you, I will go to santa marta for a relax trip.