Getting there and aroundBeachesThings to doEating and sleepingServices and emergencies
Getting there and around
How do I get to the Central Coast from Santiago?
By car via Route 5 North and then the coastal road; the time depends on the town and on traffic. Details per destination in the guides for Maitencillo, Cachagua, Zapallar and Papudo.
Are there buses?
Yes, there are services from Santiago to Zapallar and Papudo, and connections from Viña del Mar. Check schedules in each destination's getting-there guide.
Can I visit all four towns in one day?
Yes, they are on a short stretch of coast. We recommend the coastal route to do it at a relaxed pace.
Where do I park?
In Zapallar and Cachagua, parking at beaches and on streets has been paid since 2026. In Maitencillo and Papudo the waterfront fills up early in January and February.
I'm coming from Argentina, what do I need?
Check our guide From Mendoza: border crossing, documents, SAG agricultural control and the route to the coast.
Beaches
Which beaches can I swim at?
According to the latest resolution published by the Maritime Authority (2024/25), on this stretch Playa Zapallar and Playa Chica de Papudo are approved. Compare them all in the beach finder.
When are lifeguards on duty?
During the summer season set by each municipality (in Zapallar, December 15 to March 15) and only at designated beaches.
What do the flags mean?
Green: swim with caution. Yellow: be careful. Red: no swimming.
Which beach is best for kids?
Playa Chica de Papudo and Playa Zapallar: calm sea and lifeguards in season. See Summer with kids.
Can I bring my dog?
Not in Zapallar and Cachagua (municipal bylaw), and Papudo's 2025 waterfront bylaw also bans dogs on its beaches. In Maitencillo we found no published ban. See Getaway with your dog.
Can I bring a cooler or speaker to the beach?
In the municipality of Zapallar (including Cachagua), coolers, picnics and audible speakers are banned. See the beach rules.
Is the water very cold?
Yes, the central Pacific is cold even in summer. Check today's water temperature in How is the sea today?.
Things to do
Where can I surf?
Maitencillo (El Abanico) is the best-known spot, with schools for beginners. See surfing in Maitencillo.
Can I go paragliding?
Yes, in Maitencillo there are tandem flights depending on the wind. See paragliding.
Can I visit Penguin Island?
Landing is not allowed: it is a Natural Monument. You can see it from the Cachagua shore or on boat trips around it. See the guide.
What do I do if it's cloudy?
Trails in Parque El Boldo, the Zapallar promenade, summer fairs and the seafood route.
What events are there in summer?
Expo Vive Papudo, Mercado Aguas Blancas, the Puchuncaví Costumbrista Festival and more. See the calendar.
Eating and sleeping
Where can I eat seafood?
At the fishing coves of Maitencillo, Zapallar and Papudo and at seafront restaurants. See the seafood route and the directory.
Where do I stay?
There are hotels, cabins and hostels in all four towns. See the accommodation directory.
Do I need to book?
In January and February, yes: restaurants with a view, places to stay and activities such as paragliding or Parque El Boldo fill up.
Services and emergencies
What number do I call in an emergency?
Ambulance 131, Fire department 132, Police (Carabineros) 133 and sea rescue 137.
Are there ATMs, pharmacies and supermarkets?
Services vary by town; some are in the nearest larger town. See the services guides for Maitencillo, Cachagua, Zapallar and Papudo.
When is the best time to drive back to Santiago on Sunday?
Before 4 pm or after 9 pm there is usually less traffic.