A long, narrow beach town in the municipality of Puchuncaví, with seven beaches linked by the waterfront, waves for surfing and paragliding flights over the cliffs.
In 30 seconds
Verified facts to plan your visit. If something has changed, let us know and we'll update it.
| Municipality | Puchuncaví, Valparaíso Region |
|---|---|
| From Santiago | ≈160 km, about 2 hours by car |
| Access | Route 5 North and the Puchuncaví bypass, or along the coast from Concón (F-30-E) |
| Beaches | Playa Chica, Los Pocitos, El Abanico, Aguas Blancas, Playa Grande, La Caleta and Los Pinos |
| Ideal for | Surfing, paragliding, families and fishing-cove food |
| Season | December to March; surfing happens all year |
Summer in Maitencillo
In the latest published classification (2024/25) no Maitencillo beach is listed as approved for swimming. Check each beach in the beach finder.
We found no published lifeguard hours for Maitencillo. Swim only where there is supervision.
There is no published pet ban in Puchuncaví. Keep your dog on a leash and pick up after it.
Since December 2025 the Puchuncaví bypass is open, with a toll. Waterfront parking fills up early in January and February.
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 Maitencillo: 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.
Maitencillo guide
Activities, sports and walks
Waves, services and access
Fishing cove, local eateries and tables with a view
Cabins, hotels and rentals
Schools, waves and season
Flights and schools
Season calendar
Forecast, waves and tides
By car, bus and routes
Plumbers, locksmiths, cleaning and more
Directory listings: confirmed public information; on-site visit still pending.
FAQ
A long weekend of two or three days is enough to explore its beaches, eat at the fishing cove and take a surf lesson.
Los Pocitos is the most sheltered and calm for kids. Always check the flags and whether lifeguards are on duty in season.
There are surf schools at El Abanico and Playa Grande. Many operate all year with a wetsuit included.
Yes, there are direct buses from Santiago in season. Check schedules and frequencies with each company before you travel.
Yes. In autumn and spring the town is quiet, prices drop and the waves are still good for surfing.
Land, gated communities and houses: what to know before buying, building or renting in Maitencillo.
