Snorkeling in Chile
Including Bahía Inglesa, Bahía Tic-Toc, and Bahía de Coliumo. On the map.
The vibe
The water along the coast is exceptionally cold and nutrient-rich, which supports a unique marine ecosystem but makes for a bracing, short-lived experience rather than a leisurely afternoon float. Mid-summer is the only time the water temperature becomes tolerable for extended sessions in a thick wetsuit. It is a niche activity here, so expect a DIY experience where you bring your own gear and scout out calm, sheltered coves on your own.
Bahía Inglesa, Caldera
Chile
Sports Cars Fan / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Known for its turquoise, Caribbean-like waters in the middle of the Atacama desert, this bay features calm, sandy shallows and rocky outcrops. It is a perfect spot for spotting small schools of fish and exploring the sheltered coastline.
Access. Easy shore entry from the public beaches.
Notes. Water temperature is moderate; popular with families in the summer months.
Bahía Tic-Toc, Palena
Los Lagos Region
Rakela / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Located within the Corcovado Gulf, these cold, nutrient-rich waters are a prime spot for snorkeling with curious South American sea lions. The visibility is often surprising in the kelp forests, where snorkelers can observe diverse cold-water invertebrates and fish species in a pristine wilderness setting.
Access. Accessible via boat excursions departing from Chaitén or Raúl Marín Balmaceda; local eco-tourism operators provide guided snorkeling tours with thick wetsuits.
Notes. Water temperatures are very low; thick 7mm+ wetsuits are mandatory. Strong tidal currents exist in the gulf.
Bahía de Coliumo, Tomé
Dichato
order_242 from Chile / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
This sheltered bay features calm, clear waters protected from the open Pacific swell, making it ideal for casual snorkeling. Snorkelers can explore the rocky reefs near the shoreline to see starfish, sea urchins, and schools of small coastal fish.
Access. Easy shore entry from the main beach or via small local fishing boats that can be hired at the pier to reach the outer rocky points.
Notes. Best experienced during the summer months when water clarity is highest.
Hanga Roa, Easter Island
Valparaiso Region
Arian Zwegers / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
The waters surrounding Easter Island are exceptionally clear, offering visibility that often exceeds 50 meters. Snorkelers can explore volcanic rock formations and swim alongside sea turtles in a unique, remote Pacific environment.
Access. Shore access from the main town of Hanga Roa; local operators offer boat trips to nearby islets.
Notes. Strong currents can occur; always check with local dive shops before entering the water.
La Portada, Antofagasta
Antofagasta Region
Bachelot Pierre J-P / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Located near the iconic natural stone arch, this area offers a rugged coastal snorkeling experience. The cold Humboldt Current brings nutrient-rich water, supporting a diverse array of marine life including sea lions and various coastal fish species.
Access. Shore access via the beach area; best reached by car from Antofagasta.
Notes. Water is cold due to the Humboldt Current; a thick wetsuit is highly recommended.
Punta Choros, Coquimbo
Coquimbo Region
René Bongard / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Part of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve, this area is a hotspot for marine biodiversity. Snorkelers can encounter Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and occasionally dolphins in the nutrient-rich, clear waters surrounding the islands.
Access. Boat trips are required to reach the islands from the village of Punta Choros.
Notes. Strict marine park regulations apply; tours must be booked with authorized local guides.