Exploring South America’s Diverse Beaches
South America boasts an extensive and captivating coastline, which encompasses stretches along the Caribbean, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. When it comes to beaches, the continent offers numerous fantastic options.
Standout Beach Destinations
Some countries stand out more than others for their beach destinations. Brazil and Colombia, in particular, are renowned for their magnificent beach locales, while landlocked nations like Bolivia and Paraguay lack oceanic shores entirely.
Discovering Brazil’s Coastal Beauty
Brazil’s expansive Atlantic coastline provides an array of beach experiences. Cities such as Rio and Florianopolis feature oceanfront areas with vibrant social scenes and serene sunbathing spots. The northern coast of Peru remains a hidden gem, often overshadowed by Lima’s tourist influx. Here, nestled at the foot of the Miraflores cliffs, you’ll find a narrow but picturesque beach. Venezuela also boasts numerous beautiful beaches overlooking the Caribbean Ocean, especially on its northern islands.
Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha (Brazil)
Situated on an archipelago off Brazil’s northeastern coast, this beach presents a breathtaking, albeit short, stretch of sand with tranquil waters. Accessible only by boat or a descent down steep rocky slopes, it may not be ideal for young children or those with limited mobility. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Because of its challenging accessibility, you won’t have to contend with crowds for space on the sand.
Sancho Beach, State of Pernambuco, Brazil
Undoubtedly, Copacabana is among South America’s finest beaches. With a lengthy strip of bars and nightclubs just steps away, Copacabana offers a beautiful expanse of golden sand frequently bustling with people making the most of their leisure time. It mainly attracts adults and older teenagers. While the water may be cold for swimming, the beach football and constant daytime activity make it an ideal spot for people-watching.
Jericoacoara, Ceara (Brazil)
This remote beach in northeastern Brazil requires a fairly long journey, including a four-hour off-roading adventure through dunes and coastal landscapes. However, the reward for your efforts is the stunning natural surroundings and sunsets. While the sea may not be ideal for swimming, several lagoons provide better conditions. Jericoacoara also offers excellent spots for surfing and windsurfing, with its numerous dunes providing entertaining beach walks and dramatic rock formations adding to its beauty.
Jericoacoara, Jijoca de Jericoacoara – State of Ceará, Brazil
Just a short distance from the waterfront towns of Los Organos and Mancora, this delightful beach is often tranquil and peaceful, featuring shallow waters ideal for young children to paddle in. Further out, the waves pick up, creating excellent conditions for surfing and windsurfing. The charming village offers rustic accommodation options.
Vichayito, Peru
Nestled against lush jungle-covered hillsides on the northern coast, this charming village provides an ideal setting for a Peruvian beach retreat. One half of the curved beach is sheltered from larger waves, creating a calm environment for swimming. The northern half of the 4-mile beach, though a bit more exposed, is often quieter.
Punta Sal, Peru
This beach is divided by a fishing pier that extends into the water, showcasing one of Cabo Blanco’s major draws: excellent fishing, which once attracted celebrities like Ernest Hemingway and Marilyn Monroe. Today, it’s a beautiful stretch of sand perfect for relaxation. While the waves may be too challenging for weak swimmers, they offer great opportunities for surfers looking to catch some waves.
Colombia’s Hidden Gems
La Caleta, Capurgana (Colombia)
Located near the Panama border and a short boat ride from Cartagena, Capurgana’s beach, though small, stands out as one of the continent’s most beautiful. A narrow strip of golden sand graced with a handful of hotels, it features gentle waters ideal for swimming, along with excellent scuba diving opportunities nearby, notably the turtle conservation project. Several dining options and a nearby eco-lodge make it easy to enjoy El Almejal for a few days.
Playa El Almejal (Colombia)
Situated on Isla Baru, a brief boat trip from Cartagena, Playa Blanca offers a popular day-trip destination. While it can get crowded, there are ample choices for sunbeds and beach bars when seeking refreshments. For a quieter, more secluded experience, head to the southern end of the beach, away from the boat drop-off point.
Playa Blanca, Colombia
Exploring Ecuador’s Coastal Delights
La Bellaca, Bahia de Caraquez (Ecuador)
Located approximately 2 miles south of the city center, this beach is a surfing hotspot, thanks to its impressive waves. It’s also suitable for swimming, although the slightly rocky seafloor warrants caution. You’ll find a few vendors and stalls near the car parking area adjacent to the beach. On the whole, it’s a peaceful beach with ample space to relax.
Playa La Bellaca, Ecuador
Montañita, Ecuador
This small town ranks among Ecuador’s top beach destinations, offering excellent surfing conditions and waves suitable for strong swimmers. However, it may not be the best choice for families with young children, as Montañita has a reputation as a party town, and the festivities often spill onto the beach.
Playa Montañita, Montañita, Ecuador
At 10.6 miles in length, this beach provides ample opportunities to find a serene spot, though you may need to walk a bit! The swimming conditions here are quite good, with moderate waves typically attracting beginner and novice surfers, with board rentals available. If you wish to break up your day, a stroll to the cliffs at the northern end of the beach offers a stunning panoramic view of the coast.
Canoa, Ecuador
Located within the Los Roques National Park, this exquisite beach features pristine white sand and azure waters ideal for swimming, albeit with occasionally strong tides. The clarity of the water also makes it perfect for snorkeling. Accessible by boat, this beach is a true Caribbean gem and a worthwhile destination within the park.
Venezuela’s Caribbean Beauty
Playa El Agua, Margarita Island (Venezuela)
Resembling the epitome of a Caribbean paradise, this beach offers around 2.5 miles of golden sand flanked by palm trees on one side and sparkling blue waters on the other. Despite its beauty, it’s not suitable for swimming due to strong currents, and lifeguards frequently caution against venturing too deep.
Choroní (Venezuela)
This rustic beach enjoys popularity among both locals and visitors. It features a few umbrellas and deck chairs, with relatively calm waters suitable for swimming. The beach nestles in a bay surrounded by steep mountain slopes covered in lush greenery, creating a picturesque setting with swaying palm trees in the gentle breeze.
Chile’s Coastal Charms
Zapallar (Chile)
A crescent of golden sand bordered by rocks extending into the ocean, this beach offers calm waters ideal for swimming. It often attracts local families seeking relaxation and water activities. The village’s rustic ambiance feels reminiscent of European charm, adding to its appeal as both a town and beach destination.
Cifuncho (Chile)
Located just a short drive from the town of Antofagasta, this beach features soft white sands and a laid-back atmosphere. The water is pleasant for swimming, with small waves, and a charming little town is conveniently nearby too.
Argentina’s Coastal Escapes
Mar del Plata (Argentina)
Mar del Plata, Argentina’s answer to Rio de Janeiro’s beaches, boasts shores within close proximity to the city center. The waves here cater to surfers and bodyboard enthusiasts. The beaches nearest the city center offer various amenities, including sun loungers and beach sports. However, during weekends, finding a spot to lay your towel might be a challenge.
Pinamar (Argentina)
Unlike most cities, Pinamar was meticulously planned, limiting development and resulting in higher prices for facilities and accommodation. The beach itself offers golden sands and suitable waves for surfing, but it may not be the best choice for family-friendly swimming due to its waves and currents.