Whether or not your toes have touched the sand in South America, there’s no denying that this continent is blessed with an abundance of breathtaking beaches that cater to all kinds of beach goers from professional sun seekers to water sport fanatics. Explore the tropical paradises of Brazil, swim in the turquoise waters of Colombia and sunbathe near the Moai statues in Chile. And remember to pack a pair of binoculars – you never know when a playful dolphin might make an appearance. Read on to learn more about some of the South America beaches that just can’t be missed.
- Baía do Sancho, Brazil
- Anakena Beach, Chile
- Punta del Diablo, Uruguay
- Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Baía do Sancho, Brazil
Let’s begin our roundup of the top South America beaches in Brazil and, more specifically, Baía do Sancho: a secluded paradise that consistently ranks among the world's top beaches. It’s located on the remote island of Fernando de Noronha, which is a protected UNESCO World Heritage site, and is only accessible by boat or a steep staircase. Don't be put off by this though, as you’ll be rewarded with a crescent of fine sand and pristine waters. It’s the ideal place for snorkelling and scuba diving, with excellent visibility and an underwater world teeming with fish, sea turtles and even dolphins.
Anakena Beach, Easter Island, Chile
Next up on the list of the best South America beaches is Anakena Beach which can be found on Easter Island: a remote volcanic island located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. This sandy spot is framed by lush palm trees and the legendary Moai statues, so describing the surrounding landscape as impressive is an understatement. It’s a place of great historical and cultural significance, as well as a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Choose between chilling on the sand, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or exploring the nearby Ahu Nau Nau archaeological site. There are also plenty of opportunities for picnicking under the shade of palm trees or enjoying local food and refreshments at this Chilean beach.
Image by Alix Pardo
Punta del Diablo, Uruguay
This charming seaside village is located on the eastern coast of Uruguay and offers a laid-back and bohemian atmosphere that attracts both locals and international travellers. It boasts several stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm. The main beach in Punta del Diablo is the expansive Playa Grande, which translates as ‘Big Beach’ and stretches all the way along the coastline. The waves here are pretty consistent throughout the year, so naturally it's a firm favourite with surfers. Whether you catch waves on the regular or consider yourself more of a beginner, it's a great beach to hone your skills with some local surf schools and a few shops that provide equipment rental and lessons. After a more tranquil setting? Head over to Playa de los Pescadores, the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming and sunset beach walks.
Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Located on Colombia's Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Park is home to a collection of stunning beaches nestled between lush rainforests and majestic mountains. The main highlights here are Playa Cristal, named ‘Crystal Beach’ because of the crystal-clear waters here, and Cabo San Juan, known for its unique rock formations and a natural freshwater lagoon. The latter offers camping facilities, so you can spend the night immersed in nature and wake up to the mesmerising sunrise over the Caribbean Sea. Once you’ve had your fill of sea and sand, hike through the park's trails with a guide to seek out unique wildlife.
Image by Alix Pardo
Header image by Pia Riverola