Mar Chiquita Beach Argentina
A unique, seashell-shaped cove protected by jagged rocks, offering calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxing
Mar Chiquita Beach Argentina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique, seashell-shaped cove protected by jagged rocks, offering calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
"Absolutely stunning — our favorite beach in Puerto Rico!"
Bring Snorkel Gear! :mask:
The clear waters are perfect for spotting fish and marine life. Don't miss out on this underwater spectacle!
Pack Your Own Snacks :sandwich:
Food trucks are available, but bringing your own food and drinks is recommended for variety and convenience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Natural Lagoon
The main cove
A seashell-shaped bay enclosed by dramatic cliffs, offering calm, clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
Snorkeling Paradise
Inside the lagoon
Discover colorful fish, sea urchins, and other marine creatures in the exceptionally clear waters.
Dramatic Rock Formations
Surrounding the cove
Jagged reef cliffs create a stunning backdrop and protect the tranquil waters within the bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Pool
Pack for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Snorkel Gear! :mask:
The clear waters are perfect for spotting fish and marine life. Don't miss out on this underwater spectacle!
Pack Your Own Snacks :sandwich:
Food trucks are available, but bringing your own food and drinks is recommended for variety and convenience.
Sun Protection is Key :sun_with_face:
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and consider renting an umbrella for shade.
Explore the Caves :cave:
Discover cool caves near the exit for an added element of adventure and exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Snorkel Gear! :mask:
The clear waters are perfect for spotting fish and marine life. Don't miss out on this underwater spectacle!
Pack Your Own Snacks :sandwich:
Food trucks are available, but bringing your own food and drinks is recommended for variety and convenience.
Sun Protection is Key :sun_with_face:
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and consider renting an umbrella for shade.
Explore the Caves :cave:
Discover cool caves near the exit for an added element of adventure and exploration.
Watch for Stray Dogs :dog:
Friendly stray dogs may approach, sometimes looking for snacks. Be mindful and enjoy their company.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mar Chiquita Beach, calling it a stunning and relaxing paradise, often their favorite in Puerto Rico. The unique natural lagoon, clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and dramatic cliff scenery are major highlights. While some note minor issues like litter or the cost of portable toilets, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-visit destination.
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely stunning — our favorite beach in Puerto Rico!
We visited Mar Chiquita Beach in Tierras Nuevas Poniente, Manatí to celebrate Kim’s birthday, and it was absolutely perfect. The drive from our VRBO in the Carolina area took about 45 minutes and was completely worth it. The winding road and the view as we crested the last hill down toward the beach were breathtaking.
Parking is free (though sandy), and even on a Tuesday in the off-season, a few food trucks were open. We brought our own food and drinks and immediately wished we’d brought snorkel gear — the moment we saw the crystal-clear water inside the seashell-shaped bay, we knew it was a snorkeler’s paradise. The bay is surrounded by towering, jagged reef cliffs, creating a sheltered, magical lagoon.
We found a shaded spot on the far side where we could easily access the water but still enjoy both sun and shade. The water was refreshingly cool, not too warm, and the waves were big but gentle. Inside the reef, we spotted lots of colorful fish, sea urchins, and chitons, plus crabs and anoles along the rocks. We even watched a hawk swoop down to catch a fish — a total National Geographic moment!
My drone footage from here was incredible — the turquoise water against the golden cliffs is unreal. Even as the day got busier, we never felt crowded. One couple’s barking dog broke the peace for a bit, but they didn’t stay long. Unfortunately, we did notice some litter despite plenty of trash bins, which is disappointing.
Before we left, we explored the cool caves near the exit — a must-see if you visit! We even had to tie up our cooler after a friendly stray dog tried to snag a snack (probably feeding puppies nearby).
This beach is safe for swimming — no rip currents, calm surf inside the cove, and incredible scenery. It was our favorite beach of the entire trip, hands down. If you’re visiting Puerto Rico, make a day of it here — you won’t regret it. 🌊🐠☀️"
Kirk Magill
"This beach was so beautiful, so relaxing. We went on a Friday afternoon, we got there around 1:30pm the sun was pretty high and the sand was hot, we wanted to rent beach chairs and an umbrella for shade and the gentleman there greeted us and said that’s what he had to offer so we paid about $30 for that. The waves were high but we stayed on the edge. It was such a relaxing, enjoyable beach to visit. I recommend this beach to anyone trying to take in the beauty of Puerto Rico. We ended up leaving by 6pm due to us being scared to drive in the narrow roads on the way there and back. But def recommend also there is a good truck selling drinks and Alcapurriaa which were so good! 10/10 recommend!"
sasha gonzalez
"Great are with lots of rocks to hike if you are experienced enough. The views are incredible and the water is clear. The have vendors selling whatever you need and nice little umbrella areas. A lot of parking."
TravelingCid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mar Chiquita Beach is located in Tierras Nuevas Poniente, Manatí. The drive from areas like Carolina can take around 45 minutes. The roads leading to the beach can be narrow, so be prepared for a scenic but potentially winding journey.
Yes, there is parking available at the beach. It's often described as sandy and is generally free, though some reviews mention it can get busy.
Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Mar Chiquita Beach, offering flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas and managing your time.
Public transport options are limited and not directly convenient for reaching Mar Chiquita Beach. It's best to arrange private transport or a rental car.
The drive involves winding roads with beautiful views as you approach the coast. Be cautious on the narrow roads, especially when leaving as daylight fades.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mar Chiquita Beach itself does not have an entrance fee. Parking is generally free. However, amenities like portable toilets may have a fee associated with them.
The beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official closing times posted, but it's advisable to leave before it gets too dark due to the narrow access roads.
No, tickets are not required for Mar Chiquita Beach as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
There are no specific entry restrictions mentioned, but visitors should be mindful of the natural environment and any posted guidelines.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear. Rentals are also available from vendors on site.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Mar Chiquita is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The sheltered lagoon offers calm waters, while the outer areas can have larger waves suitable for experienced surfers or watchers. You can also explore the surrounding rocks and caves.
Absolutely! The crystal-clear waters inside the lagoon are teeming with colorful fish, sea urchins, and other marine life, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. Bring your own gear for the best experience.
Public restrooms are not available. Portable toilets are present but are privately owned by umbrella and chair rental vendors, so there's a fee to use them.
While the inner lagoon is calm, the waves outside can be significant. Swimming in the outer areas is best suited for experienced swimmers or surfers. The lagoon offers a safe swimming environment.
You can spot various marine life like colorful fish, sea urchins, and chitons in the water. Along the rocks, you might see crabs and anoles. Birdlife, including hawks, can also be observed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food trucks and vendors on-site selling drinks, snacks like Alcapurrias, and souvenirs. Some vendors also offer massages on certain days.
Vendors typically offer local Puerto Rican snacks and drinks. Alcapurrias are a popular item mentioned by visitors.
While vendors are available, bringing your own food and drinks is a good idea for variety and to ensure you have what you like, especially if visiting on a less busy day.
The immediate area around the beach has food trucks. For a wider selection of restaurants, you would need to travel to nearby towns like Manatí.
Yes, picnics are welcome. Many visitors bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. Remember to dispose of your trash properly.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic contrast between the turquoise water and golden cliffs is incredibly photogenic. The unique seashell shape of the cove and the waves crashing over the rocks offer stunning shots. Drone footage is particularly spectacular here.
Yes, drone footage from Mar Chiquita is described as incredible, capturing the unreal turquoise water against the golden cliffs.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful, casting a warm glow on the cliffs. However, the clear waters are visible and photogenic throughout the day.
No specific restrictions on personal photography have been mentioned. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. If you have a drone, it's highly recommended for aerial shots. Waterproof cameras or phone cases are useful for capturing underwater moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring along snorkel gear for the kids to explore the shallow, clear waters teeming with small fish – it's like a natural aquarium! While there are food trucks, packing snacks and drinks is a good idea to keep everyone happy. The unique rock formations also offer a sense of adventure for curious young explorers.
🌊 Adventure Seekers & Water Sports Enthusiasts
+1While the inner cove is calm, the outer areas can experience more powerful waves, attracting surfers and kiteboarders. If you're into wind sports, research the best conditions for Mar Chiquita and consider bringing your equipment or looking for local rental and lesson providers. The dramatic scenery also makes for an epic backdrop for action shots.
📸 Photographers & Drone Pilots
Drone pilots will find this location particularly rewarding, with aerial shots revealing the breathtaking scale and beauty of the natural lagoon. Capture the interplay of light on the water, the textures of the rocks, and the overall grandeur of this coastal gem. Golden hour, especially late afternoon, can provide magical lighting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of Mar Chiquita
The surrounding cliffs are a significant part of the beach's appeal, offering dramatic backdrops for photos and opportunities for exploration. These rocky formations are not just visually striking but also contribute to the unique ecosystem of the cove, providing habitats for various marine and terrestrial creatures. Visitors often enjoy hiking around these areas, provided they have the necessary experience and caution.
The name 'Mar Chiquita' translates to 'Little Sea,' a fitting description for this secluded aquatic gem. Its unique structure has made it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking a different kind of beach experience, one that combines natural beauty with a sense of discovery and adventure.
Water Sports and Activities
+1For those interested in water sports, Mar Chiquita offers a unique setting. The sheltered lagoon is perfect for beginners or those who prefer calmer waters, while the outer areas can provide more challenging conditions for experienced athletes. The consistent winds in the region make it a popular spot for wind-powered activities.
Beyond the active pursuits, the simple act of enjoying the clear waters is a major draw. Snorkeling here is highly recommended, with many visitors reporting sightings of colorful fish and other marine life within the protected cove. It’s an accessible way for all ages to experience the underwater world of Mar Chiquita.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit