Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa El Faro: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity moderate, average temperature +17.0°C, warms up to +20.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa El Faro: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.0 m.
Playa El Faro: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa El Faro: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 000 metres.
Playa El Faro: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December. It ends in March. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa El Faro: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa El Faro: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa El Faro: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa El Faro: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurants on Avenida del Mar. Cuisines available: Chilean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa El Faro: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Headwear.
Playa El Faro: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning before 11:00 the water is calmer and there are fewer people.
Playa El Faro: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is not recommended in some parts of the beach. Keep the area clean.
Playa El Faro: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa El Faro: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers and walkers. Suitable for families, but swimming is recommended only in designated areas. Not suitable for those seeking solitude.
Playa El Faro: what makes this beach unique?
The El Faro Lighthouse is a historic landmark built in 1953 and has become a symbol of La Serena. The beach is part of the 4-mile promenade lined with El Faro, Los Fuertes and Mansa beaches.
Playa El Faro: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: One of the widest beaches in La Serena, Clean and pleasant beach, Friendly locals, Scenic El Faro Lighthouse (1953), Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Excellent surfing conditions, Avenida del Mar promenade with restaurants and shops. Cons: Some parts not suitable for swimming, Can be crowded, Few changing rooms, Litter after storms, Strong currents in some areas.
Playa El Faro: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: El Faro Lighthouse, Avenida del Mar, Playa Cuatro Esquinas. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa El Faro: how do I get to the city of La Serena?
The beach is located near the city of La Serena. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for La Serena.