Los Charcones Natural Pools
Discover breathtaking natural pools carved into volcanic rock, offering crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safer swimming conditions
Los Charcones Natural Pools
Best Time
Safer swimming conditions

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking natural pools carved into volcanic rock, offering crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal views.
"Most beautiful body of water, but swimming can be risky due to waves and urchins."
🌊 Check Tides & Wind
Prioritize safety! Visit during low tide and calm weather for a safer swimming experience.
🚗 Rocky Road Ahead
Drive slowly on the rocky path or opt for a 20-min walk. Not ideal for fragile rental cars.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Pools
Various pools along the coastline
Discover a series of natural pools with incredibly clear, inviting waters perfect for a refreshing dip.

Volcanic Rock Formations
Surrounding the pools
Marvel at the dramatic volcanic landscape that shapes these unique coastal formations.

Abundant Wildlife
Surrounding reserve areas
Spot diverse wildlife, including colorful frogs and various snake species, on guided tours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Safety
Accessing Los Charcones
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Check Tides & Wind
Prioritize safety! Visit during low tide and calm weather for a safer swimming experience.
🚗 Rocky Road Ahead
Drive slowly on the rocky path or opt for a 20-min walk. Not ideal for fragile rental cars.
⚠️ Sea Urchin Alert
Be cautious of sea urchins, especially during higher tides. Wear water shoes if possible.
🐸 Wildlife Spotting
Consider a guided tour to discover the area's fascinating frogs and snakes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Check Tides & Wind
Prioritize safety! Visit during low tide and calm weather for a safer swimming experience.
🚗 Rocky Road Ahead
Drive slowly on the rocky path or opt for a 20-min walk. Not ideal for fragile rental cars.
⚠️ Sea Urchin Alert
Be cautious of sea urchins, especially during higher tides. Wear water shoes if possible.
🐸 Wildlife Spotting
Consider a guided tour to discover the area's fascinating frogs and snakes.
🌅 Avoid After Sunset
Navigating the rocky terrain after dark can be difficult. Plan your visit during daylight hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Los Charcones' natural pools, calling them some of the most beautiful bodies of water they've ever seen. However, many caution that swimming can be dangerous due to powerful waves and sea urchins, especially during high tide or windy days. The rocky access road is also a point of consideration for visitors.
"Had to be the most beautiful body of water I have ever seen and was such a nice swim. But, it felt really unsafe with the waves and sea urchins. I man got thrown around by the waves and ended up getting stab by the urchins. I reccomend to go low-tide and also when it‘s not windy. Swimming is really a risk here as it can pull you out. So make responsible decisions!"
SunHee Kim
"To get there, you can either park and walk for 20 minutes, or use your car if you're not afraid, though you'll have to drive very slowly.
These natural swimming pools are beautiful yet dangerous due to giant waves that often come and flood the pools. Be cautious if you bring children. You can still enjoy the view from atop of the rocks if you decide not to take a swim."
Silky
"Not sure if we had the right place... when we went no one in their right mind would attempt to swim here! We got to the Abandoned hotel, actually parked just off the main road as the track is full of sharp stones - hire car! Crazy windy day crashing waves up to the cliffs - scary.
It was high tide ..
Hotel weird. Also whole area has amazing roads and street lights - but zero buildings. Does this mean masses of touist accommodation coming...?"
Karen Mundy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing Los Charcones involves a rocky, off-road drive. You can either drive your car slowly, being mindful of the terrain, or park and walk for about 20 minutes.
Yes, the road is described as rocky and requires slow, careful driving. It's not recommended for standard rental cars unless you're prepared for potential damage.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Los Charcones directly due to its remote, off-road access. It's best to arrange private transport or drive yourself.
While there isn't an official parking lot, visitors typically park off the main road before the rocky track begins, or at the start of the walking path.
The terrain is volcanic and rocky, with sharp stones. It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to walk or explore the surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Los Charcones is a natural area and generally does not require tickets for entry. However, some guided tours might have associated fees.
As a natural attraction, Los Charcones doesn't have official opening hours. However, it's recommended to visit during daylight for safety and visibility.
There is typically no entrance fee for Los Charcones itself, as it's a natural reserve. Fees may apply if you book a guided tour.
While accessible, it's strongly advised to visit during daylight hours and when weather conditions are favorable (low tide, calm winds) for safety.
The main restriction is to be aware of the natural conditions, especially tides and waves, which can make swimming dangerous. Respect the natural environment.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Swimming can be risky due to powerful waves and sea urchins, especially during high tide or windy conditions. Assess the conditions carefully and prioritize safety.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended due to the rocky terrain. Water shoes can also be beneficial for swimming to protect against sea urchins.
Due to the potential for strong waves and rocky areas, Los Charcones may not be ideal for young children, especially if you plan to swim. Adult supervision is crucial.
The surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife, including various species of frogs like the 'Rana Platanera' and snakes such as the 'Bejuquilla Verde' and 'Patoco'.
You can drive very slowly on the rocky track, but it's a challenging drive. Many visitors prefer to park and walk the final stretch.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic volcanic landscapes, the crystal-clear natural pools, and the vibrant wildlife. The contrast between the rocks and water is stunning.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for dramatic landscape shots. However, be mindful of safety and avoid staying after dark.
Yes, the area is rich in wildlife. Guided tours often provide opportunities to safely observe and photograph frogs and snakes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive volcanic landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography.
The rocky outcrops surrounding the pools offer elevated viewpoints for capturing the scale and beauty of Los Charcones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Sturdy footwear is a must for everyone, and water shoes can provide extra protection against sea urchins. If you're interested in the local fauna, guided tours can be a great way for older children to learn about the frogs and snakes in the area in a controlled environment.
🚗 Adventurous Drivers
If you prefer to preserve your vehicle, parking before the rough section and enjoying the 20-minute walk is a popular and sensible alternative. This approach still allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area without the stress of navigating the challenging terrain. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the walk.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. However, always prioritize safety and avoid staying after dark due to the difficult terrain. A wide-angle lens will be excellent for landscape shots, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing wildlife details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain and Access
It's important to note that the area is not officially developed, meaning there are no formal parking lots or paved roads leading directly to the pools. This raw, natural state is part of its charm, but also means visitors need to be prepared for uneven ground and potentially sharp stones.
Safety First: Swimming and Natural Hazards
Another hazard to be aware of are sea urchins, which can be found in and around the pools. Wearing water shoes is a good precaution to protect your feet. For families, the unpredictable nature of the waves and the presence of urchins mean extra caution is needed, and some visitors suggest enjoying the view from the rocks if swimming feels too risky.
Discovering the Local Wildlife
Among the notable sightings are different species of frogs, including the 'Rana Platanera' (Boana pugnax), often described with iridescent eyes. The area is also home to several snake species, such as the 'Bejuquilla Verde' and the 'Patoco' (Porthidium lansbergii), a type of viper common to the region. These encounters highlight the ecological richness of the reserve and add an educational element to a visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit