Playa La Chimba
A vast artificial beach and unique coastal wetland in Antofagasta, offering natural beauty and recreational opportunities, though facing environmental...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Playa La Chimba
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast artificial beach and unique coastal wetland in Antofagasta, offering natural beauty and recreational opportunities, though facing environmental challenges.
"This place is a gem, but it needs our collective effort to keep it clean and preserve its natural wonders."
Bring Your Own Trash Bags
Help keep Playa La Chimba clean by carrying out all your waste. :recycle:
Respect Wildlife & Vegetation
Observe animals from a distance and avoid stepping on plants in the wetland. :deer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playa La Chimba Beach
Coastal area
Chile's largest artificial beach, offering a vast stretch for relaxation and enjoying the sea breeze.
+1Humedal La Chimba
Wetland area
A vital oasis supporting unique biodiversity, sustained by coastal fog.
Quebrada La Chimba
Coastal desert ravine
A natural reserve and hidden gem in the coastal desert, showcasing fragile ecosystems.
Dolphin Sightings
Coastal waters
Keep an eye out for playful dolphins in the waters near the beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Beauty (and the Mess)
+1Respect the Ecosystem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Trash Bags
Help keep Playa La Chimba clean by carrying out all your waste.
Respect Wildlife & Vegetation
Observe animals from a distance and avoid stepping on plants in the wetland. :deer:
Explore the Hiking Trails
Discover the unique desert landscape and coastal views on local trails. +1 :hiking_boot:
Consider SUP or Kayaking
Enjoy the ocean from a different perspective with water sports.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Trash Bags
Help keep Playa La Chimba clean by carrying out all your waste.
Respect Wildlife & Vegetation
Observe animals from a distance and avoid stepping on plants in the wetland. :deer:
Explore the Hiking Trails
Discover the unique desert landscape and coastal views on local trails. +1 :hiking_boot:
Consider SUP or Kayaking
Enjoy the ocean from a different perspective with water sports.
Check Local Event Listings
Sometimes there are organized meditations or community clean-ups.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa La Chimba is a vast, artificial beach with potential for relaxation and water activities, including fishing and dolphin sightings. However, many visitors note significant issues with litter and a general lack of maintenance, detracting from its natural beauty. The adjacent wetland and ravine offer unique ecological and trekking experiences, but require careful preservation.
"👏👏"
Carlos Herrera
"An old fishing village, steeped in history and tradition, stands silently by the sea. Its humble houses, anchored boats, and worn nets tell stories of generations who lived off artisanal fishing. The salty aroma and the constant sound of the waves create a nostalgic and serene atmosphere. It is a place frozen in time, where the simple life and the coastal landscape convey a rustic and unforgettable beauty."
Cristian D.
"The La Chimba beach resort is undoubtedly the most neglected in Antofagasta. The poor state of the green spaces is incredible, the pollution is high (there are no garbage cans), the construction of tent-like housing next to the beach, and the general situation is filled with garbage. The municipality needs to take responsibility."
Judit Gutiérrez Rodríguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa La Chimba is located in the northern sector of Antofagasta. You can reach it by car, and there are also public transport options like the Line E01 bus route. Some visitors mention it's a few kilometers from the city.
While not explicitly detailed in all sources, driving is a common way to access the beach, suggesting some form of parking is usually available, though it might be informal.
For the adventurous, cycling or walking is possible, especially if you're staying in the northern parts of Antofagasta. It's a good option for those who enjoy a scenic route.
The wetland is part of the broader La Chimba area. Access is generally from the main routes leading to the beach and surrounding natural areas.
Yes, the Quebrada La Chimba offers trekking opportunities, with trails and viewpoints for exploring the unique desert landscape. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Playa La Chimba itself, suggesting it's a public access area.
As a public beach and natural area, it's generally accessible throughout the day. However, for safety and respect, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
No advance booking is required for general access to Playa La Chimba. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
Visitors are asked to be mindful and respectful of the environment, avoiding disturbing wildlife and vegetation.
The Quebrada La Chimba is a natural area, and access is generally year-round, though weather conditions in the desert can vary.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can relax on the beach, swim (be mindful of strong waves in some areas), fish from the cove, go stand-up paddleboarding, or simply enjoy the coastal scenery.
Yes, it's considered a great place for families to spend time, offering a large beach area for recreation.
Unfortunately, many reviews and posts highlight issues with litter and waste. Visitors are encouraged to help keep it clean. +1
Yes, you might spot dolphins in the sea and various endemic birds, succulents, and even foxes in the Quebrada La Chimba and Humedal La Chimba.
+1
Information on facilities is scarce, but given the reports of litter and neglect, it's advisable to come prepared with your own supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach itself offers wide-angle shots, while the Quebrada La Chimba provides dramatic desert landscapes. The wetland area is great for capturing unique flora and fauna.
The coastal location makes it a prime spot for sunset photography, with the ocean providing a beautiful backdrop.
A wide-angle lens is great for the beach and landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
The wetland offers unique opportunities to photograph endemic plants and birds in their natural habitat.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good place for a picnic and to simply relax. However, parents should be mindful of the potential for litter and ensure children are supervised, especially near the water due to potentially strong waves. +1 Bringing extra trash bags is a good idea to help keep the area clean for everyone's enjoyment.🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Eco-Tourists
📸 Photographers
+1 Sunsets over the ocean are particularly stunning. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Environmental Challenge at Playa La Chimba
+1 This is particularly concerning given the presence of the Humedal La Chimba, a vital wetland ecosystem that supports unique flora and fauna. The community and local authorities are aware of the problem, with efforts sometimes made for clean-ups and waste removal.
The contrast between the natural beauty and the pollution is a recurring theme, underscoring the need for collective action to protect Playa La Chimba for future generations.Beyond the beach, the Quebrada La Chimba offers a glimpse into the fragile desert ecosystem sustained by the coastal fog, known as 'camanchaca'.
Exploring the Natural Wonders: Humedal and Quebrada La Chimba
Adjacent to the wetland, the Quebrada La Chimba offers a different but equally fascinating natural landscape. This ravine showcases the stark beauty of the Atacama Desert's coastal fringe, with trails winding through arid terrain.
These natural areas, while beautiful, are also vulnerable. The presence of camanchaca (coastal fog) is the lifeblood of this ecosystem, highlighting the interconnectedness of the marine and terrestrial environments.
Activities and Experiences at Playa La Chimba
+1 The waters are also popular for artisanal fishing, with a dedicated cove for boats. For those seeking adventure, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a popular option, offering a unique way to experience the coastline.
Organized events, such as group meditations and grounding sessions, also take place here, connecting visitors with the natural energy of the sea. The surrounding areas, like the Quebrada La Chimba, are perfect for trekking and trail running, allowing exploration of the desert landscape. While the beach itself is a draw, the possibility of spotting dolphins adds an extra layer of magic to a visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit