A small beach town in the municipality of Zapallar, between Maitencillo and Zapallar, known for the Isla de Cachagua Natural Monument: an islet facing the beach where Humboldt penguins nest.
In 30 seconds
Verified facts to plan your visit. If something has changed, let us know and we'll update it.
| Municipality | Zapallar, Valparaíso Region |
|---|---|
| From Santiago | About 2 hours by car |
| Don't miss | Isla de Cachagua Natural Monument, viewed from the shore |
| Beaches | Cachagua beach and the long La Laguna beach |
| Ideal for | Nature, families, horseback riding and golf |
| Season | December to March |
Summer in Cachagua
Playa Grande and Las Cujas are classified as not approved for swimming (2024/25). Check the beach finder.
There are lifeguards at Playa Grande and Las Cujas during the season (December 15 to March 15).
Banned on beaches and swimming areas (municipality of Zapallar, DA 2093/2022). Coolers, picnics and speakers are also banned. See the rules.
Paid parking at beaches and on streets in the municipality since January 2026.
Green: swim with caution. Yellow: be careful. Red: no swimming.
Sea rescue 137 · Ambulance 131 · Fire department 132 · Police (Carabineros) 133
Sources: Quintero and Papudo Harbor Master's Office (Ord. 12250/1, 2024/25 season), municipalities of Puchuncaví, Zapallar and Papudo. The season's resolution is updated every year.
Before you go
Live sea conditions, current warnings and what to know about Cachagua: what to do in an earthquake, where the nearest emergency room is and what the trip costs.
30 m elevation
If the earthquake is strong and it is hard to stay on your feet, don't wait for the alarm: walk up to 30 meters above sea level or higher.
See your safe zone in the Chile Preparado map · SHOA tsunami flood chart
Sources: SHOA, SENAPRED, municipalities, Superintendency of Health, CNE (Bencina en Línea) and MOP. Approximate car times and tolls without traffic; check before you leave.
Cachagua guide
Activities, sports and walks
Waves, services and access
Fishing cove, local eateries and tables with a view
Cabins, hotels and rentals
Natural Monument and viewpoints
Horseback riding and golf
By car, bus and routes
Plumbers, locksmiths, cleaning and more
Directory listings: confirmed public information; on-site visit still pending.
FAQ
The island is a Natural Monument and landing is not allowed. You watch it from the beach and viewpoints; bring binoculars.
Horseback rides on the beach and hills, golf, forest walks and strolls to Zapallar along the coast.
Yes. It is a residential beach town with fewer shops than Maitencillo; ideal for resting.
There are cafés and restaurants in town and seafood options in Zapallar and Maitencillo, a few minutes away.
Land, gated communities and houses: what to know before buying, building or renting in Cachagua.
