5 Best Sights in El Norte Chico, Chile

Stretching from the southernmost tip of Bahía Inglesa right around the bay, Playa Las Machas has escaped the attention of the majority of tourists and is a relaxing alternative to the more crowded beaches in the town proper. Whether you decide to explore the long shoreline on foot, taking in the dramatic scenery as you go, or find yourself a secluded spot for sunbathing and to get away from it all, this white-sand beach is a great place to while away a lazy afternoon. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; sunset; surfing; walking.

Even though it's a bit of a trek, this stunning package of bleach-white sand, turquoise water, and rocky desert scenery is worth the trip. The 17-km (10-mile) journey south from Coquimbo is more than made up for by the natural advantages of the beach and the perfect conditions for swimming, diving, fishing, and snorkeling. Amenities: food and drink (summer only); parking (fee). Best for: snorkeling; sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.

Well sheltered within a small cove, La Herradura—or the Horseshoe—is a small but attractive beach that enjoys calm waters and lies within easy striking distance of Coquimbo. These days it is best known as a holiday destination or as a prime windsurfing, kayak, or stand-up paddleboarding spot, but the area’s history as a fishing cove can still be seen in the brightly colored boats tethered out in the calm waters of the bay. Amenities: food and drink; parking (fee). Best for: snorkeling; sunset; surfing; swimming; windsurfing.

Stunningly pretty, impossibly calm, and perfect for swimming, Playa La Piscina is in many ways the ideal town beach. Bordering Bahía Inglesa’s main drag, this beach—which translates as “the swimming pool”—enjoys perfect white sand and bright blue waters, all a short walk from most hotels and restaurants. Unsurprisingly, it gets very busy in the summer high season and suffers from quite a bit of littering. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards (summer only); parking; toilets; water sports. Best for: swimming.

Stretching along the city’s coastline up to neighboring Coquimbo, this sandy city beach is La Serena’s star attraction and a popular spot for families, surfers, and couples, who come to enjoy the great views over the bay at sunset. Like many city beaches, though, it suffers from mild trash problems in parts and is overrun with tourists during the summer high season. Be sure the beach is marked with a sign that says Playa Apta before swimming, as the high waves and fierce currents often make it a dangerous place for swimmers. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards (summer only); parking (fee); toilets. Best for: sunset; surfing; walking.