Viña Del Mar: Its Beaches And Other Attractions

Viña del Mar, on the coast of Chile, is one of the most visited cities in this country. And, once it is known, the reason for its fame is discovered. The city has many attractions and the most varied: from the beach to monuments, through its casino, gardens or its famous music festival, of enormous prestige. Let’s go on describing all those charms.

Where is Viña del Mar

The first piece of information relative to the geographical location of Viña del Mar is that it is a coastal city bathed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. This conditions and completely defines this city, which even has the word sea in its place name.

After that, it can already be said that it is located in a more or less central latitude of the Chilean territory. In fact, it is quite close to the capital, Santiago de Chile, located inland and about 120 kilometers from Viña del Mar.

And another large Chilean city very close is Valparaíso, less than 20 kilometers away. So close is it that they form a single metropolitan area. Now that we know where it is, we can talk about the must-see places in Viña del Mar.

The beaches in Viña del Mar

Summer is the peak time in Viña del Mar, and it is because with the heat its beaches attract a large number of tourists. Without leaving the urban area, there are several as interesting as Caleta Abarca, Playa El Sol, Los Marineros, Casino, Blanca or Acapulco, named after the famous Mexican town that the Pacific bathes many kilometers to the north.

All these beaches are perfectly equipped with services and close to the city. However, some have a very suggestive natural appearance, especially when majestic pelicans are seen walking on their sand.

However, it must be said that the waters of Viña del Mar are cold, only suitable for the brave. And they are also only for the most daring nearby beaches such as Recaña, ideal for surfing riding on its waves.

Other attractions of Viña del Mar

1. The coastal walk

The ocean in Viña del Mar can be enjoyed on the beach or on its main avenue, which is none other than the promenade or coastline that runs along its entire coast and offers beautiful views, especially when the sun goes down.

But, in addition to the views, you have to walk there to find good restaurants, fun bars, terraces where you can sunbathe, artisan fairs and endless leisure activities.

2. Flower Clock

A good place to start the walk along the coastline is the Flower Clock. This curious clock has become one of the icons of Viña del Mar and one of the most photographed. It is not only because of its color and the curiosity of a floral clock, especially because the legend says that whoever takes a photograph here will return to this place in Chile.

3. Cerro Castillo

The Flower Clock is at the base of Cerro Castillo, where what is perhaps the most charming neighborhood of Viña del Mar takes place. In its streets there are many buildings that are declared national monuments.

4. Wulff Castle

Another interesting monument is this small fort located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and that we will find on the walk along the coastline. There he built a whimsical German Vineyard settled Sea. Today it serves as a temporary exhibition hall.

5. Casino of Viña del Mar

When we think of a hotel that is a casino, Las Vegas comes to mind. Also in Viña del Mar there is an establishment like this, although it does not have the dimensions or the usual delirium of the American city. Here, on the other hand, it is a beautiful example of the historical heritage, being a property from around 1930.

Many things to see in Viña del Mar

We still have more things to recommend in the city. For example, a visit to Quinta Vergara, which has one of the most romantic gardens in the city. And another outstanding garden is the botanical garden, which also offers endless outdoor activities, from small hiking trails to zip-line descents.

We can also get closer to the monumental architecture of the Rioja Palace, whose interior is an authentic museum of decorative arts. And we can pay homage to the most international Chilean poet by going up to the Pablo Neruda viewpoint.

Of course, if the trip is in the southern summer, it is mandatory to get tickets for the Viña del Mar Festival, where great stars of international music perform.