The destination
Wild coast
without mass tourism
Playa Estaquilla is a hidden gem on the Patagonian coast, ideal for those seeking a wild coastal experience completely removed from mass tourism. Its grey volcanic sands and the icy Pacific waters create a unique visual contrast.
Pacific waters at this latitude are icy (12–15°C) with strong surf — this beach is a destination for contemplation and walking, not swimming.
The adventure starts on the journey itself: a scenic route with very little traffic that winds between artisan fishing coves and offers privileged views of Pacific islets.
The place
What to do
Activities &
trails
Coastal walk
A walk along the rugged coastal edge and the wide dark-sand beaches. Discover fascinating intertidal rock pools teeming with marine life, with open, infinite views over the Pacific horizon.
2–4
km
Marine wildlife watching
The rocky outcrops serve as natural haul-out sites for noisy sea lion colonies and a rich variety of endemic seabirds. On calm days in summer, austral dolphins and other small cetaceans can be spotted passing close to shore.
—
Nature
Wildlife, flora &
natural highlights
South American Sea Lion
Its noisy resting colonies are easily observed sunbathing on the large coastal rock outcrops.
Black-crowned Night Heron
A beautiful heron with mainly nocturnal and crepuscular habits that patiently stalks its prey in the rocky intertidal zone.
Kelp Gull
The most representative and omnipresent seabird of the southern Chilean coast, always soaring above the waves and surf.
Chungungo (Marine Otter)
The small endemic marine otter, an endangered species, agile among the strong surf and kelp.
Peruvian Booby
A spectacular pelagic bird recognisable by its hunting technique, plunging like a dart from great heights to catch fish below the surface.
Kelp (Huiro)
Large brown alga forming dense, rich and essential submarine forests along the coast, the basis of the local marine ecosystem.
Before you go
What you need
to know
Practical tips
→Pacific waters here are icy (12–15°C) with strong surf — this is a destination for contemplation and walking, not swimming.
→Bring all provisions, water and fuel from Puerto Montt — there are virtually no commercial services on the coast.
→The final access section includes rural gravel roads — check road conditions locally after days of prolonged rain.
→Take the opportunity to explore the nearby Los Muermos coastal route — other equally wild coves are en route.
→On clear days, sunsets over the Pacific offer an unforgettable colour palette.
How to get there
From
Apart Hotel Colón
Take Route 5 to Los Muermos then the gravel road descending to the Pacific. Download the map to your phone before setting out — signal is lost on the final stretch. Approximately 1:40 hr by car.
