4 Best Sights in Zapallar, The Central Coast

Zapallar's raison d'être is a crescent of golden sand kissed by blue-green waters, with a giant boulder plopped in the middle. Cropped at each end by rocky points and backed by large pines and rambling flower gardens, it's arguably the loveliest beach on the Central Coast. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: snorkeling; sunset; swimming.

At the south end of Playa Zapallar is a rocky point that holds Caleta de Zapallar, where local fisherfolk unload their boats, sell their catch, and settle in for games of dominoes. The view of the beach from the caleta is simply gorgeous. On the other side of the point, a stunning trail leads over the rocks to rugged but equally impressive views.

This 4.5-hectare protected island off the coast of Cachagua, a few miles south of Zapallar, is one of the world's most important Humboldt penguin breeding grounds. No one is allowed on the island, but you can see it from the beach below Cachagua, though you need binoculars to watch the penguins wobble around. For a closer look, hire a boat at the Caleta de Zapallar.

Up the hill from Caleta de Zapallar is this plaza. Translated as the "Rough Sea Square," the park has a nice ocean view and a playground. In January and February, there are often mule rides for kids as well.