Explore Chile’s Best Beaches

Chile is such a long and thin country that it claims an astonishing 6435km (4000 miles) of coastline. Consequently, as you travel between Patagonia and the Atacama, you’ll find hundreds of beaches in various shapes and colors. Black-sand beaches lie on the edge of volcanoes, tree-lined beaches near temperate rainforests, and bone-white beaches at the desert’s edge.

All of these beaches are perfectly aligned for epic sunsets, while most offer the kind of waves that surfers dream about. Thanks to the Humboldt Current, which flows up from Antarctica, the water is generally quite cold. However, a few pisco sours can work up the courage needed to dive in.

1. Bahía Inglesa

Bahía Inglesa boasts the most Caribbean-like waters along the Chilean coast. In fact, the ocean is so clear and mild, with a gemstone-green hue, that you might trick yourself into believing you’re in the tropics—until you glance at the surrounding landscape. This powdery white beach, nestled among large boulders, lies next to the world’s driest desert, the Atacama, with hardly a patch of green in sight.

The small resort village is lined with pisco bars, seafood shacks, and breezy beach hotels, imparting a unique charm to the area.

2. Matanzas

Tiny Matanzas has gained an outsized reputation among Santiago hipsters, who have flocked to this long gray-sand beach. Perhaps it’s the legendary windsurfing and kiteboarding that attract enthusiasts, or maybe the nearby wineries and exceptional seafood restaurants.

Although Matanzas draws plenty of visitors, it remains one of the most serene stretches of the Pacific coast within easy reach of the capital. Prices for accommodations are higher here than elsewhere, but the quality, trendy clientele, and remarkable design in hotels are worth the investment.

3. Anakena

Most people assume Rapa Nui (Easter Island) resembles its Polynesian cousins like Tahiti or Hawaii. However, this small, isolated island features just one substantial beach, and it is breathtaking. Anakena is a perfect crescent of white sand backed by palm trees. What makes it special are the beachside platforms with seven human-like moai statues, some adorned with stone topknots.

4. Buchupureo

Buchupureo exudes a back-to-nature vibe with its labyrinth of rocky sea caves, barking sea lion colonies, and trails through leafy hills. The local world-class barreling left-hand point break lures surfers from afar, while the area between the neighboring surf towns of Cobquecura and Pullay offers numerous breaks worthy of exploration.

Visitors will find a variety of surf lodges, earthy cabins, and inviting hostels to return to each evening.

5. Playa Cole Cole

Tucked away in a remote corner of a national park on Chile’s largest island, Cole Cole is a legendary spot among backpackers. Reaching this hidden treasure requires a 15.8km hike through lush temperate rainforests, including crossing knee-deep streams beneath towering trees.

Many trekkers bring camping gear to enjoy an unforgettable evening in the wilderness, but horse riding adventures guided by a local huaso are also available for those seeking a different experience.

6. Caleta Cóndor

Caleta Cóndor is often whispered about as one of the prettiest beaches in the country. With its crescent of white sand, tranquil turquoise waters, and shady green trees, it perfectly encapsulates beauty. However, reaching this cove isn’t easy—as visitors will need to hike through the rainforest to experience its charm.

7. Isla Negra

This picturesque artist colony, Isla Negra, is a family-friendly beach town about a 90-minute drive from Santiago. Visitors can enjoy serene walks along the boulder-lined coast while following in the footsteps of the late Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda, who built his dream home here. Now a museum, his home features whimsical architecture and eclectic furnishings straight from a fairy tale.

8. Zapallar

For those wanting to mingle with Chile’s elite, Zapallar is a family-friendly beach about two hours from the capital. It boasts a unique microclimate, making it the greenest cove on the Central Coast, with leafy streets lined with exquisite vacation homes.

While prices are high, visitors will discover quality dining and boutique hotels lining this stunning crescent of golden sand.

9. Playa Cavancha

Playa Cavancha serves as an ideal launchpad for exploring the northern half of the Atacama Desert. This urban beach in Iquique is bustling with food vendors, playgrounds, and a row of family-friendly resort hotels just behind a park-lined boardwalk. As night falls, the high-rise buildings illuminating the beach create a vibrant atmosphere perfect for evening strolls.

With its diverse landscapes and unique charm, the beaches of Chile offer something for every traveler. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, these stunning coastal spots are not to be missed.