Things To Do
in La Serena
La Serena, Chile sits on a sun-drenched Pacific coastline in the Coquimbo Region, known for its long sandy beaches and pastel colonial façades. The city blends a relaxed beach vibe with a hint of historic charm, anchored by the Plaza de Armas and the iconic Faro Monumental. Its broad avenues, palm-lined promenades, and clear desert skies create ideal conditions for sun, sea, and stargazing.
Within easy reach lie valleys and vineyards that make for memorable day trips into Chile's wine country and astronomy stops.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring the rich flavors of Chilean coffee and pastries. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets of La Serena, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant plazas. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Plaza de Armas, where the city's history comes alive.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo Arqueológico to delve into the fascinating history of the region and its indigenous cultures. Take a leisurely walk down Avenida del Mar, enjoying the ocean breeze and perhaps stopping at a beachside restaurant for lunch. As the sun sets, head to the nearby coastal cliffs for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at a local restaurant, where you can taste traditional dishes like ceviche and paila marina. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and listening to the waves crash. Conclude your evening by enjoying a drink at a beach bar, watching the stars twinkle in the clear night sky.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to the beautiful Playa La Herradura. Spend the morning soaking up the sun and enjoying the warm sand beneath your feet while trying your hand at various water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a beachfront restaurant that offers stunning ocean views. In the afternoon, continue your adventure with a snorkeling excursion to explore the vibrant marine life just off the coast. Keep an eye out for colorful fish and perhaps even a sea lion or two!
As the sun begins to set, return to La Serena and freshen up at your accommodation. Head out to one of the many local eateries to enjoy a traditional Chilean barbecue, known as asado, paired with fine Chilean wine. End your day by taking a stroll along the beach, where the sound of the waves creates a soothing backdrop for your evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🚌Local bus or transit ticket | $0.75-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🎟️Museum or activity ticket | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and beaches
- Good value for a Chilean beach town
- Strong day-trip options to wine valleys and astronomy sites
- Can get crowded in peak summer
- Windy and sandy; sand can be smoky in some neighborhoods
- Some services concentrated along the waterfront areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está la recova?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Baño" - Bathroom
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in La Serena
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful interior with stalls and shoppers; ideal for vibrant street photography and candid moments.
Long coastal boulevard with palm trees, sea views, and dramatic sunsets.
Iconic lighthouse at the tip of the promenade; strong sea light and wide horizons for iconic shots.
Elevated vantage point offering sweeping views of La Serena’s rooftops and the coastline.
Food in La Serena
La Serena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crab pie, a coastal specialty often enriched with cream and spices—best found at seafood houses near the harbor.
Must-Try!
A traditional sweet drink and dessert made from barley, dried peaches, and cinnamon.
Bake-through pastries filled with seasoned meat, onions, and egg; widely available at bakeries and eateries.
Grilled conger eel or other local fish prepared simply with herbs and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic central market offering fresh seafood, produce, crafts, and casual bites—great for authentic sampling.
Vendors along the Avenida del Mar offer fried seafood, empanadas, and seasonal snacks perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; close friends may greet with a light kiss on the cheek. Address people formally until invited to use first names.
Casual but neat in most venues; modest dress when visiting religious sites; be respectful in ceremonies or cultural spaces.
Safety
Tipping in La Serena
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, rounding up or leaving 10-15% is common if service is good; tipping in casual venues is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; many places also take mobile payments and some stalls prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cooling sea breezes; beach crowds and lively outdoor events; apply sunscreen and hydrate.
Pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; shoulder-season crowds and clear skies for stargazing.
Mild to cool with occasional coastal mist and light rain; layering is key for chilly mornings and evenings.
Warmer days return, blooming jacarandas, and increasingly frequent coastal breezes; great for outdoor activities.
La Serena at Night
Hiking in La Serena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hill with panoramic views of La Serena and the coastline; popular for short hikes and sunset vistas.
Coastal rainforest landscape with fog inlets and scenic trails; a day trip option for a nature-filled hike.
Airports
How to reach La Serena by plane.
Regional airport serving La Serena and the Elqui Valley; domestic flights and limited international routes.
Major hub with frequent connections to domestic and international destinations; typically the gateway for reaching La Serena via a domestic flight from Santiago.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding families and workers in tourism, commerce, and fishing communities.
Presence of regional universities brings a youthful influence and cafe culture.
International visitors drawn by beaches, astronomy tours, and wine valley day trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed; local clubs and community leagues are active at municipal fields and stadiums.
Popular on the coast with several beaches offering beginner-to-intermediate waves and rental shops.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Serena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-forward dishes or seafood-free plates; ask for salads or grilled vegetables with olive oil for a lighter option.