Bahía Inglesa Beach has fine white sand, turquoise water and fascinating black rock formations that jut out from the sea. Surrounded by hundreds of miles of desert, this paradisiacal bay benefits from a lack of crowds and minimal development. Take your family to the stunning beach and eat a picnic on the sand.
Learn about the beach’s intriguing past. Many centuries ago, pirates used the coves and rocks here as hiding places. The Spanish name translates to “English Bay,” although it was originally known as English Port, in reference to the English pirates who hid here.
Swim in the clear, tepid water. Listen to the sound of the waves washing in and look inland toward the enormous expanse of the Atacama Desert. The warm water temperatures and pleasant climate are reminiscent of the Mediterranean. Bring warm clothes for the evening though as it can get a little cold.
The beach is split into several sections, including the Swimming Pool, the Clams, the Owl and White Beach. Enjoy the feel of the sea breeze, which makes certain parts of the beach conducive to kitesurfing and other water sports. Let the kids play in the tranquil inlets formed by rocks in the Swimming Pool section or go fishing farther south near the Black Rocks Beach.
Visit the shops and cafés in and around the bay. A strip of restaurants and boutiques face the main beach. Stay until the evening and watch the sunset when the changing hues of the sky are reflected on the ocean.
Bahía Inglesa Beach is on the western coast of the village near the city of Copiapó in Atacama. It is just a 10-minute drive from the busy port area of Caldera.
