Playa La Virgen

Set among the earthy hues of the expansive Atacama Desert is Playa La Virgen, an oasis of color with its white sand and turquoise waters. This secluded beach gets its name from a nearby rock formation that is said to resemble the Virgin Mary. In fact the locals believe that the Virgin Mary protects the area.

You will see beach bungalows made of natural resources such as mud, stone, reeds, and wood built onto the hillside that backs the beach. There are also camping sites that allow for some of the most spectacular views out over the beach. Playa La Virgen has one restaurant which reportedly has good food and service.

Despite being set on the edge of a desert this is a popular beach, and you will find other travelers here. The waters are generally safe for swimming, but they are cool. This desert beach was one of Chile’s best kept secrets for many years, and even today, many people who live in the cities have never heard of it.