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Pichilemu

Pichilemu, 55 kilometers west of San Fernando, is a surfing mecca for both Chileans and foreigners, where the waves are surfable year round. The incredibly consistent surf offers three world class breaks that can be ridden a full kilometer into the long expanses of gray sand that blanket the shore. However, Pichilemu offers a lot more than outstanding surfing. Pichilemu - Wave

It is a small quaint town located at the base of plantation pine forests with kilometers of flat sand beaches stretching northeast and south. The rolling hills covered with intermittent forests offer unlimited possibilities for mountain biking. For the less athletic visitor, the endless beaches offer fantastic four wheel drive and motorcycle opportunites as well as the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon walk. A beautifully sculptured shaded park with children´s playground lies in the middle of town for those who want a change from the beach. There is also a long estuary south of Pichilemu that extends inland for many kilometers that is prime bird watching territory. Regardless of what your chosen activity is for the day, when you have worked up a justifiable hunger, there are numerous places to find relief with a fine meal of Pichilemu´s scrumptous seafood. All in all, Pichilemu and the surrounding area have something for everyone, from the hard core surfer to the couple looking for a romantic weekend getaway.

Hotels


		Hotel Rocas del Pacifico

	General Info The only modern chain-style hotel in the rustic seaside resort town of Pichilemu wich is know for its long beach, surfing and windiness. The hotel offers attentive service and ac acceptable, if uninspiring restaurants. Ask for a room on third floor facing the ocean.

	Accomodation Service Bar, conference room, TV cable, room service, laundry.

	Prices Single US$33, Double US$42, Triple US$60, Quadruple US$75 Rates valid until March 15 2005


		Hotel Dunamar

	General Info Perfect for those who want to escape the summertime crowds.

	Prices Single US$30, Double US$60, no credit cards accepted

Activities


		Culture, Historic Buildings

	Wine tasting: The area inland of Pichilemu towards Santa Cruz is the home of numerous small wineries. It is possible to visit small scale vinyards where the proprieters will be more than will to spend an afternoon sharing the history of their locale as well as their products. For more information or customized tours, contact Gregg Henderson of Sea Wolf at (56-72) 841-359 Colonial Museum: This extensive museum chronicles the colonization of the Chilean campo and gives a clear understanding of the history of the area. It is located in Santa Cruz, between Pichilemu and San Fernando. Municipal Park: Set back from, yet overlooking the beach, this beautiful park and its painted concrete walkways are remnants of when Pichilemu was the resort destination for the upper classes of San Fernando. It contains sculptured imported trees and bushes as well as many enormous mature Chilean Palms. The park contains a childrens playground as well as many sitting areas for adults to relax and take in the salty ocean air and have a respite from the sun. Lake: A few hours south of Pichilemu, this fresh water lake is a birdwatching and fishing paradise. A beautiful drive along the wooded Pacific coastline, along with a ferry crossing will bring you to the scenic lake. Verify ferry hours before leaving to avoid being stranded overnight on one side of the crossing.


		Beach/Surfing

	Pichilemu has three world class breaks and surprisingly few surfers fighting over waves. Two breaks are located off the main beach in front of town and can be accessed easily from the numerous hotels and hospedajes in the area. The third break is at Punta de Lobos, the beautiful cactus covered point a few kilometers south of town on the road to Cahuil. It is accessible by hitch hiking or by the numerous taxis that cruise the streets of town. Camping at the point is available for a nominal fee. Due to the Humbolt Current that brings cold water from Antarctica up the coast, the water temperatures range from 13-18 degrees celcius (57-65 degrees farenheit). A wetsuit (at least 3mm) is a requirement. Many possibilities exist for renting equipment as well as surfing and windsurfing classes with expert instructors. Although no longer offering top notch well organized competitions, Pichilemu is host to occasional surfing tournaments throughout the year.


		Swimming Pool

	Recently opened enormous outdoor semi-olympic pool. You won´t believe it until you see it! Entrance: US$3.50 adults, US$2.50 kids.


		Bird Watching

	Several fresh water lagoons as well as a large estuary south of town make for prime birdwatching excursions.