Pichilemu

Augustín Ross Edwards envisioned a European-style resort town when he pictured Pichilemu in the second half of the 19th century. However, the modern version is overrun with surfers seeking the perfect wave and beach bums lounging for hours on the soft, charcoal-colored sand while soaking up the sun.

Chile’s first casino resided on Av. Agustin Ross in a storied, 19th-century piece of architecture - though now it is no longer in use and in a state of disrepair. The forgotten ideals of this run-down building clash with the town’s now bustling streets full of empanada restaurants, budget-priced hostals, and throngs of surfers and backpackers that feed Pichilemu‘s tourist industry. Next to the now-abandoned casino is well-manicured Parque Ross lined with its Phoenix palms on the hill overlooking the beach.

Pichilemu is filled with areas to set up camp for those with a tent on a tight budget. There are also cabañas on every corner and there are often locals hawking rooms to backpackers as the step off the bus at the terminal. For those in the mood for something a little nicer, stay in the Pichilemu Surf Hostal located a few minutes from the center of town on 164 Eugenio Diaz Lira or to be closer to the action go to Hotel Chile España on 255 Ortúzar.

There are plenty of food options in Pichilemu. Anibal Pinto is lined with cheap options such as pizza and empanadas - do yourself a favor and sample at least once an offering from La Casa de las Empanadas located at 260-B Anibal Pinto. There is usually a wait because locals flock to the restaurant but it is well worth it. Puente Holandes offers a more romantic setting with a patio that overlooks the ocean at Playa Infiernillo.