What to do in Bahía Inglesa: complete 2026 guide
Bahía Inglesa is probably the most beloved beach resort in northern Chile. A few minutes from Caldera and just over an hour from Copiapó, its warm, distinctly turquoise waters make it a must-see in the Atacama Desert. In this guide we cover what to do, where to eat and how to make the most of your visit.
Its best beaches
- Playa La Piscina: the most famous, with calm, shallow water, ideal for kids and for swimming.
- Playa Las Machas: a long stretch of sand perfect for long walks and for watching the sunset.
- Playa El Chuncho: quieter and surrounded by rock formations, good for snorkeling.
What to do besides the beach
Bahía Inglesa is much more than sun and sand. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, cycle along its coastline, or take a boat trip to spot marine wildlife. In the evening, the restaurant area comes alive with music and seafront terraces.
Where to eat: fresh seafood
Food is one of the big draws. Caldera is famous for its oysters and scallops, and in Bahía Inglesa you'll find restaurants serving sea urchins, razor clams parmesan and fresh catch of the day from the coves. Book ahead in high season (January and February).
How to get there and best time
From Copiapó it's about 75 km (50 minutes) via Route 5 and C-302. The nearest airport is Desierto de Atacama (CPO), with daily flights from Santiago. The best time to swim is December to March, although the rest of the year the weather is sunny and calm, perfect to relax without the crowds.