Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
50 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
14 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Grande Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +15.0°C, warms up to +18.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Grande Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.0 m.
Playa Grande Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 50 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 Grande Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — grey. Texture — fine. Beach length — 14 000 metres.
Playa Grande Beach: 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 Grande Beach: 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 Grande Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (seasonal). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Grande Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Grande Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa Grande Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurants in Tongoy. Cuisines available: Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Grande Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Headwear, Windbreaker (windy).
Playa Grande Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to swim is from December to March, when the water warms up slightly. Mornings are less windy.
Playa Grande Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is recommended only in patrolled areas. Keep the beach clean. Do not leave valuables unattended.
Playa Grande Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Grande Beach: who is this beach best for?
Suitable for lovers of secluded relaxation, surfing and kitesurfing, as well as those who want long walks along a deserted coast. Not recommended for families with small children due to cold water and strong winds.
Playa Grande Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Playa Grande in Tongoy is one of the longest beaches in the Coquimbo region, stretching about 14 km. At the southern end of the beach is Puerto Aldea, a former Chilean Navy base.
Playa Grande Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Huge length (over 14 km), Secluded areas with almost no people, Excellent conditions for surfing and kitesurfing, Scenic views of the bay and sunsets, Important wetlands nearby, Free access. Cons: Very long coastline, partly difficult to access, Water is cold most of the year, Often strong winds and waves, Limited infrastructure on most of the beach, Lots of seaweed on the shore, No lifeguards on remote sections.
Playa Grande Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Puerto Aldea, Tongoy Wetlands, Tongoy Viewpoint. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Grande Beach: how do I get to the city of Coquimbo?
The beach is located near the city of Coquimbo. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Coquimbo.