Things To Do
in Los Vilos
Los Vilos is a quiet fishing town on the central coast of Chile, where the Pacific winds sweep along a long sandy shoreline and colorful boats fill the harbor. The town blends traditional seafood culture with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike. You’ll find fresh markets, welcoming locals, and scenic viewpoints that frame the rugged coastline.
It's an ideal base for shore excursions and relaxed coastal living away from the bustle of bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and Chilean coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the town. Don't forget to visit the local artisan market to pick up unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Plaza de Armas, where you can relax under the shade of the trees and watch the locals go about their day. Visit the Church of San Bartolomé, a beautiful example of colonial architecture, and learn about its historical significance. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas or pastel de choclo.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot at one of the beachfront restaurants for a stunning sunset view. Indulge in a seafood dinner, freshly caught from the nearby waters, paired with a glass of local wine. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle waves and enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Wake up early and head to Playa Los Vilos, where the golden sands and azure waters await. Rent a surfboard or kayak and spend the morning catching waves or paddling along the coast, feeling the thrill of the ocean. If you're lucky, you might spot dolphins playing in the distance!
After a morning of adventure, enjoy a beachside lunch at a popular seafood shack, sampling the catch of the day. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach or playing beach volleyball with locals, soaking up the sun and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. For a more tranquil experience, take a walk along the shoreline and collect unique seashells.
As the sun sets, gather with friends around a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter under the stars. Bring along some marshmallows for roasting and enjoy the warmth of the fire while listening to the sound of the waves. End the evening with a refreshing swim in the moonlit ocean, creating unforgettable memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night (budget) | $40-70 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🚕Taxi within town (5 km) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and seafood
- Relaxed vibe and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Seasonal crowds and variable service levels
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Los Vilos
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse at the harbor offering dramatic sunrise or sunset silhouettes over the Pacific.
Seafront promenade with palm trees and colorful boats; ideal for long-exposure waves and golden-hour photography.
Colorful fishing boats, nets, and gulls with soft morning light—great for candid, documentary shots.
Cliffs and sea spray provide dramatic textures and dramatic backdrops for panoramic shots.
Food in Los Vilos
Los Vilos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich seafood pie featuring fresh crab and creamy béchamel, commonly found in coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
A traditional monkfish soup with tomato, garlic, and herbs; a comforting coastal staple.
A hearty seafood stew with shellfish and fish in a light broth.
Jumbo pastry pockets stuffed with shrimp, crab, or fish, fried or baked.
Simple, smoky fish often enjoyed with lemon and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market where you can watch fishmongers at work and sample freshly caught seafood.
Fried empanadas, ceviche, and grilled seafood sold by local vendors along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; with friends, a light kiss on the cheek in social settings can occur in some circles.
Spanish is the main language; learning basic phrases helps; English is less common outside tourist spots.
Say please and thank you; queues are generally respected; avoid loud conversations in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Los Vilos
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10-15% tip in restaurants if service isn’t included; small tips for hotel staff or taxi drivers are appreciated.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted in restaurants and shops; some smaller vendors prefer cash (CLP).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with strong coastal winds, good beach conditions, and lively markets; bring sun protection and water.
Milder temperatures, less wind, pleasant for hikes and street photography; beach crowds begin to thin.
Cool, wetter months with stronger winds; storms can roll in from the Pacific; expect fewer crowds.
Warming weather, blooming coastal flora, and comfortable seas; ideal for outdoor activities and day trips.
Los Vilos at Night
Hiking in Los Vilos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic hikes along cliff tops with ocean views and opportunities for photography.
Low-elevation trails with panoramic views of the town and sea.
Airports
How to reach Los Vilos by plane.
Regional airport serving the Coquimbo region; connect to major Chilean cities and domestic flights.
Chile's main international hub in Santiago; best for international arrivals and onward domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Chilean families and coastal workers, with a strong fishing community.
Domestic travelers from Santiago and elsewhere who visit for beaches and seafood.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Occasional waves suitable for beginners along the coast.
Popular among locals; you’ll often see games or gatherings at public spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Vilos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In most places you can request vegetable dishes, salads, grilled vegetables, and cheese-based options; ask for no fish stock and check for seafood in broths.