Vina del Mar beach
The Vina del Mar beaches are located on the coast of a famous Chilean resort of the same name, which is the third biggest city in the country. The Vergara promenade stretches along the lengthy coastline with the El Norte, Acapulco, Caleta Abarca, Las Salinas and Playa del Sol beaches, and the liveliest part of the resort, full of restaurants, parties, night clubs and fashionable hotels, is located behind it. The most prosperous city of the coast is known for its colonial architecture, large amount of museums and monuments and the unique national colorfulness.
Photos
Beach description
The Vina del Mar beaches are covered in grainy white sand. The descent is smooth, the sea bottom is sandy, but the surfs from the ocean prevent safe swimming. The Peruvian current with cold streams from Antarctica goes along the coastline of South America, so the water here is quite cool all year, even during Summer when its temperature doesn't go above 17 degrees Celsius.
Despite the climatic peculiarities, the beaches are very popular and crowded during high seasons, mostly by youth from all over the world. ATVs drive along the shore, people play beach volleyball and mini football, while surfers, water skiers, catamaran and jet ski riders enjoy the waves.
The beaches are very well-developed. There are rental stores with sunbeds and umbrellas; toilets, showers and changing rooms are also set up here. Several parking lots are located near the beach.
When is it better to go
The beach season in Chile begins in October and ends in March. Do not forget that the Peruvian current (Humboldt Current) prevents a full beach holiday, as it carries cold streams from Antarctica along the coastline of South America.
Video: Beach Vina del Mar
Infrastructure
Where to stop
Vina del Mar provides a wide variety of accomodation, both expensive and cheap for all kinds of tourists.
Where to eat
Vina del Mar is well-known for the haute cuisine restaurants, where amazing meals from all over the world, made by the best cooks of the country, as well as great service await visitors. The prices are expensive here, which is why the majority of tourists stay near the Vergara promenade. Cafes, restaurants and night clubs, with blaring music and bright lights, are open 24/7. All of these establishments offer a wide variety of meals, magnificent coffee and wine list.
What to do
You can partake in yachting and sailing, join a sea tour along the coast or visit a municipal casino at Vina del Mar. Many museums, situated in old colonial mansions, operate in the city. The luxurious castles on the coastal mountains are especially attractive.