Caldera has the feel of a typical small beach town of approximately 14,000 souls. The people are relaxed, the seafood is fresh and life seems to move at a slower pace. Caldera boasts some history too. Estación de Ferrocarril, the terminus of the first South American railway, was chosen to be placed here late in the 19th century when the city exported large amounts of silver. These days, the economy is supported by tourism and by the export of grapes and copper.
The magnificent beaches attract most of the visitors to Caldera, but other places of interest are the first non-Catholic cemetery with elaborate tombs of European immigrants, and the Iglesia San Vincente on the main square.
There are plenty of restaurants in town that whip up flavorful seafood. Fish, crab and oysters are local favorites. Pirón de Oro has exquisite shellfish. Nuevo Miramar offers one of the best ocean-views in town with a plate of seafood, while El Plateao has an international flavor on its menus.
Reasonable accommodation is also available, though more so during the low season. Residencial Millaray is a good value, Tierra del Sol is a comfortable mid-range option, and Jandy Hotel will even rent you a bike.
Tel: 52, Pop: 14, 000.