Things To Do
in Florida

Florida, Chile is a small coastal town in southern Chile that sits along rivers and nearby shores, offering a serene mix of rural life and Pacific scenery. It serves as a quiet base for exploring the Biobío region and its agricultural countryside, with a backdrop of green hills and open skies. The town exudes a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, with local markets and seafood-forward dining.

Visitors come for relaxed walks, fresh air, and day trips to nearby natural and cultural attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Florida
morning
:

Arrive in the picturesque town of Florida, nestled in the heart of southern Chile. Take some time to settle into your accommodation, soaking in the serene environment and the green landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Chilean pastries.

afternoon
:

Explore the town by visiting the local artisan markets, where you can find handmade crafts and local delicacies. Engage with the friendly locals, who are eager to share their stories and the cultural significance of their crafts. Take a stroll through the town square and relish the vibrant atmosphere.

evening
:

Cap off your day with a delicious dinner at a quaint restaurant, where you can indulge in regional specialties such as empanadas and fresh seafood. Enjoy the warm ambiance and perhaps try a glass of local wine or a pisco sour. Stroll through the town as the sun sets, embracing the charming evening light.

day 2
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast, then head out to explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding Florida. Join a guided hike through nearby nature reserves, where you can encounter unique flora and fauna. Take in the breathtaking views of mountains and valleys as you trek along scenic trails.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a packed lunch in a scenic spot, relishing the tranquility of nature. Spend the afternoon kayaking in local rivers or lakes, experiencing the thrill of paddling through beautiful surroundings. Keep an eye out for wildlife and perhaps even some friendly local birds joining your adventure.

evening
:

Return to town where you can unwind with a casual meal at a local tavern, sharing stories with fellow travelers. Later, find a quiet spot to watch the stars lighting up the night sky, an unforgettable experience in the serene atmosphere of Florida. Reflect on your adventures and the connections made throughout the day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or tea$2-4
🚗Taxi 1km$1-2
🛏️Night in a budget hotel$40-60
💧Bottled water (1 liter)$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Tranquil pace of life and natural scenery
  • Affordable dining and lodging in a rural Chilean setting
  • Good base for exploring nearby parks and coast
  • Limited nightlife and few high-end dining options
  • Smaller selection of major tourist services compared to larger cities
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ayuda" - Help

Places to Visit in Florida

Visit one of these nice places.

Riverside Waterfront Promenade

A calm spot to shoot sunrise or sunset over the water, with boats, gentle waves, and soft light reflecting off the surface.

Coastal Lookout Over the Pacific

A vantage point near the coast where you can capture the meeting of sea and sky, especially dramatic during golden hour.

Municipal Market Façade

Colorful market stalls and everyday life provide local texture and portrait opportunities with natural backdrops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Florida

Florida’s cuisine leans on fresh seafood, farm produce, and simple, hearty Chilean dishes. Expect tasty coastal flavors, seasonal fruits, and comforting preparations typical of southern rural towns.

Florida Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Empanadas de pino

Savory pastries filled with meat, egg, olives, and raisins; great as a snack or starter at local eateries.

Must-Try!

Pastel de choclo

A ground corn casserole topped with sugar; often served with chicken or beef and a side salad.

Congrio frito

Fried conger eel, a regional seafood favorite, usually served with chips or fresh salsa.

Cazuela

A comforting stew made with meat or chicken, potatoes, pumpkin, and corn on the cob; ideal for cooler days.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Florida (Local Market)

A modest market where you can taste fresh fruit, baked goods, and small prepared dishes; great for observing daily life and picking up snacks.

Riverside Food Stalls

Seasonal street food stalls along the waterfront offering quick bites like fried fish, empanadas, and corn-based snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a temperate, Mediterranean-influenced climate with wet winters and relatively dry summers. Coastal moderation means temperatures are milder than inland areas, and rainfall is common from fall to spring with sporadic showers in winter. Fog can occur in cooler mornings, especially near the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A simple handshake or light kiss on the cheek (mostly among friends) is common. Use polite language and address elders with usted when in doubt.

Touch and Personal Space

Keep a respectful distance in first meetings; avoid public displays of affection in formal settings.

Punctuality and Conversation

Punctuality is appreciated, especially for arranged meetings; small talk about family and local life is common and friendly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Florida is generally safe for visitors, with typical rural Chilean precautions: watch valuables in crowded markets, lock vehicles when parked, and use reputable transport if traveling late at night. Road conditions can be variable in rural areas, so plan for slower travel times and check local advisories during rainy periods.

Tipping in Florida

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Chile, tipping is common but not obligatory. At sit-down restaurants, a tip of about 10-15% is appreciated if service is not included. For casual cafes or street vendors, rounding up is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns, with cash (Chilean pesos) still handy for markets and small vendors. Some places may accept mobile payments; always have some local currency on hand for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with mild evenings; coastal breezes keep temperatures comfortable. Expect higher tourist footfall in coastal areas and longer daylight hours.

Autumn

Pleasant, mild weather with turning foliage in nearby hills. Great for hikes and photography, with fewer crowds.

Winter

Cooler, wetter months with more rainfall; coastal fog can occur. Layered clothing is recommended and indoor cafes are a good refuge.

Spring

Fresh, growing-season conditions with flowers and greener landscapes. Mild temperatures make outdoor activities especially enjoyable.

Nightlife Guide

Florida at Night

Florida’s nightlife is low-key and mostly centered around casual bars and cafes along the town plaza and waterfront. Expect relaxed atmospheres with local musicians on the weekends, simple cocktails, and opportunities to mingle with residents. Most venues close early by regional standards, so it’s a good idea to plan evenings with a dinner afterward.

Hiking in Florida

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nahuelbuta National Park

Iconic park with native monkey puzzle trees, rolling hills, and scenic viewpoints; a highlight for hikers in the region.

Local river trails near Florida

Gentle to moderate trails along riversides offering tranquil nature walks and birdwatching opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Florida by plane.

Carriel Sur International Airport (CCP)

Nearest major airport serving the Concepción area; domestic and some international flights. Access via highway and local transport to Florida is feasible in about an hour.

Pudahuel International Airport (SCL) - Santiago

Main international gateway to Chile; most travelers connect here for domestic flights to regional hubs or longer trips. From SCL you can reach Florida via land transport or a domestic flight to CCP.

Getting Around

Walkability

Florida is walkable in its town center with a pleasant riverside and waterfront paths. Distances to key spots are short, but some attractions lie outside the core town and require a car or local transport. The terrain is mostly flat around the center, with gentle hills in surrounding areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

A mix of families involved in farming, fishing, and small-scale commerce; a sense of community is strong and family-oriented.

Mapuche communities

In broader Biobío and neighboring areas, Mapuche presence and cultural influence can be observed in markets, crafts, and regional history.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

The most popular sport across Chile; local teams and informal matches are common in towns like Florida.

Surfing

Coastal access offers opportunities for beginner-friendly surfing and beach sports when conditions permit.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Florida is typically light to moderate, with occasional congestion near town centers during peak hours or market days. Public buses and taxis are common transport options; road quality is generally good in town, with more limited services in rural outskirts.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Florida.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Florida, vegetarian options typically include dairy- and egg-based dishes, salads, beans, cheese empanadas, and seasonal vegetables; communicate clearly with servers about avoiding meat stock and fish. Many restaurants can prepare vegetable-forward dishes or pasta with vegetables if requested.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available through local clinics and a regional network; for major emergencies or specialized care, you may be referred to larger facilities in Concepción or bigger hospitals in regional hubs. Private clinics offer faster service, while public options are more affordable but may have longer wait times.

Discover Chile

Read more in our Chile 2025 Travel Guide.

Chile Travel Guide