Things To Do
in Coquimbo
Coquimbo is a windswept port city on Chile's Pacific coast, set around a crescent-shaped bay and perched between hills. Its historic Barrio Inglés and modern waterfront mingle with fishing boats, pastel houses, and scenic viewpoints along the coast. The city serves as a gateway to La Serena and the Elqui Valley, offering a mix of seafood markets, cultural sites, and starlit desert landscapes.
Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, sunny beaches like La Herradura, and clear skies that attract astronomy enthusiasts from nearby observatories.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure by visiting the picturesque Plaza de Armas, where you can admire the impressive architecture of the Coquimbo Cathedral. Grab a coffee from a local café and indulge in a delicious pastry while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the square. Don't forget to check out the artisan market nearby for unique souvenirs and crafts.
After a hearty lunch at a traditional Chilean restaurant, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, stopping by notable landmarks such as the Municipal Theatre and the Lighthouse of Coquimbo. Explore the local history by visiting the Historical Museum, where you'll find fascinating exhibits on the region's past. As you wander, take in the colorful murals that adorn many buildings, showcasing the local art scene.
As the sun sets, head towards the waterfront for a scenic walk along the promenade. Choose a beachfront restaurant for dinner, where you can savor fresh seafood while enjoying stunning views of the ocean. Cap off the night by visiting a local bar for some live music or a traditional Chilean drink, like pisco sour.
Begin your day at La Herradura Beach, where the golden sands and clear waters beckon you for a morning swim. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the beautiful coastline and hidden coves. As you paddle, keep an eye out for local marine life, such as sea lions and colorful fish.
After working up an appetite, enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the many eateries offering fresh seafood and local fare. Spend the afternoon relaxing under the sun, trying out beach volleyball or simply lounging with a good book. For the adventurous, consider signing up for a surfing lesson to catch some waves in the warm Pacific waters.
As dusk falls, watch the sky transform with hues of orange and pink while enjoying a beach bonfire with friends or fellow travelers. For dinner, visit a beach restaurant to feast on grilled fish and enjoy a glass of local wine. The night wraps up with a leisurely stroll on the beach, listening to the soothing sound of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) per night | $60-120 |
| 🚆One-way public transport | $0.75-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal beauty and beaches with a laid-back vibe
- Fresh seafood and friendly locals
- Proximity to La Serena and the Elqui Valley for day trips
- Good value for money and easy to navigate
- Limited direct international flights (often requires Santiago transfer)
- Hot inland summers can be very sunny and windy
- Some areas have limited English-speaking services in smaller towns
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Coquimbo
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic crescent-shaped beach framed by cliffs and surfers at dawn.
A distinctive cross atop a hill offering panoramic views of the city and bay.
Colorful fishing boats and pastel houses along the harbor as the sun sets.
The iconic lighthouse with coastal views and light tower at night.
Food in Coquimbo
Coquimbo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Chilean conger eel soup or broth, often served with bread.
Must-Try!
Crab pie with a creamy filling and pastry crust.
A seafood stew with clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish.
Seafood-stuffed pastries typical to coastal towns.
A rustic seafood and shellfish stew (regional variation).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market stalls offering fresh seafood, produce, and prepared foods.
Port-side stalls serving completos, empanadas, mote con huesillo, and other local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; close friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek in informal settings.
Spanish is the primary language; English is understood in tourist areas, but having a few phrases ready helps.
Use polite phrases such as 'por favor' and 'gracias'; show patience when dealing with service staff.
Safety
Tipping in Coquimbo
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant service is often included; if not, a 10% tip is customary in larger places and appreciated in smaller eateries.
Cash in Chilean pesos and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; Transbank/Electronic payments are common; some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with refreshing sea breezes; expect crowded beaches and long sunsets.
Mild temperatures, lower humidity, good for outdoor city walks.
Cooler, wetter nights are rare but possible; coastal fog can occur in mornings.
Warmer days, blooming vegetation and more outdoor events.
Coquimbo at Night
Hiking in Coquimbo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal-montane trails through fog habitats with dramatic ocean vistas, a day trip from Coquimbo.
Hiking routes up the hill for panoramic views over the city and bay.
Airports
How to reach Coquimbo by plane.
Closest airport to Coquimbo; domestic flights connect to Santiago and other destinations.
Main national and international hub; most travelers connect here to reach Coquimbo by land.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mix of long-time families, fishing communities, and new residents; welcoming to visitors.
Domestic travelers from Santiago and other regions, plus international visitors attracted to beaches and astronomy nearby.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common on coastal beaches, especially La Herradura and Avenida del Mar.
Popular community and school sport; games in regional stadiums.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coquimbo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-based dishes or sides; ask for empanadas de verduras, quinoa salads, and vegetable cazuela without meat or seafood; request 'vegetariano' and 'sin carne'.