Few communes in Chile should have the privilege of having such a wide variety of beaches and spas, which give the visitor a range of good alternatives to enjoy during their vacation.
Historically, it was the most traditional sectors such as La Herradura, Tongoy, Guanaqueros and Peñuelas, which attracted the largest number of people. However, in recent years there has been a boom in destinations such as Playa Blanca, Morrillos and Totoralillo, the latter even considered one of the most beautiful in the country.
And that has been reflected in the figures. According to data provided by SERNATUR, during the month of February the occupancy rate in tourist accommodation establishments in the port district reached 91.4%, ranking second nationally with La Serena.
Below, we will tell you some of the reasons why the Coquimbán coasts stand out and are so coveted nationally.
Totoralillo Beach
Located 12 kilometers south of the commune, it is always well positioned among the top ten beaches in Chile. With its white sands and deeply transparent turquoise waters, it has nothing to envy of the best resorts in the Caribbean.
It is approximately 2 kilometers long, with a small peninsula between rocky landscapes. Despite its length, it allows two beach alternatives. One with gentle waves and the other ideal for sports such as surfing, as well as swimming, fishing and recreational diving.
In addition to the tranquility and the option of doing water sports, there is the advancement of exquisite gastronomy. From the small cove the fishermen extract various products, among which the crab is the queen.
In recent years there has been an important development in terms of tourist accommodation establishments, with campsites, cabins and homes available to visitors, which has given it an even greater advantage.
The Morrillos boom
Without a doubt, one of the beaches that has recently positioned itself as a favorite destination in Coquimbo is Morrillos, which, thanks to the development of real estate and tourism projects, is becoming a must-see destination for many visitors.
And of course, its 6 kilometers of beach stand out for its transparent waters and ocher sands, where you can avoid the crowds of the busiest destinations.
In this natural paradise, in addition to swimming, you can practice fishing and recreational diving. It also now has cabins, rooms and camping sites, as well as tourist services, restaurants, entertainment and parking.
White beach
Although in the past and due to its difficult access it was better known as a more exclusive spa, this 500 meter long beach has gradually been opening up to other types of audiences.
Located between Tongoy and Guanaqueros, visitors can currently rent apartments and cabins and practice water activities such as shore fishing and diving, which has made it an ideal destination, especially for sharing with the family.
Guanaqueros and Tongoy
Despite the growth that their coastal neighbors have had, they continue to be the preferred destinations par excellence, especially because in recent years they have had tremendous development in terms of tourist accommodation and their great gastronomy.
Not only can you find a wide variety of cabins and campsites, but also restaurants and gastronomic centers where seafood empanadas are the stars.
A little more than 30 minutes from the La Serena and Coquimbo conurbation, it allows you to enjoy not only its calm waters, but it has become a must-see for families who want to enjoy the delights of marine products. This has made a difference, since they are not only receiving tourists in the summer season, but also in the low season.
Added to this is the large number of people who gather daily at its docks to practice fishing.
The Horseshoe, always
The queen of Coquimbo’s beaches has always been La Herradura, much closer and with calm waters that allow for a peaceful swim.
Sectors such as the viewpoints and the Yacht Club make it attractive for family outings, which can culminate with a visit to the cove and tasting exquisite dishes in its gastronomic centers.
Furthermore, there is always the hope of finding the treasure of the famous pirate Francis Drake, as legend has it that this was the place he chose for his burial.
Despite the real estate development of recent years, it also has an offer of cabins and accommodations, which are added to the apartments.
