Beaches You Won’t Believe In South America
Hey Tourist! The continent of South America is a land unlike any other. Rich in culture and brimming with enterprise, it comes as no surprise South America is one of the world’s premier holiday destinations. The very thought of this exotic land invokes images of vibrant cities, striking terrain, and mouthwatering cuisine. When it comes to beaches, South America is truly in a league of its own. South America is bordered by the two great oceans, the Pacific on the west coast and the Atlantic on the east. The weather is predominantly warm all over, meaning beach buffs won’t have to worry about the cold spoiling their adventures. Below are a few South American beaches you have to see to believe.
Montanita, Ecuador
Montanita on the southwestern coast of Ecuador features one of South America’s most captivating beaches. Translating to “Little Hill,” this charming town in the Santa Elena province achieved fame as a renowned surfing spot in the 1960s. The steady and powerful waves have lured surfers novice and expert alike from all over the globe. Every February, the site hosts an international surfing competition, which is a popular attraction for both residents as well as visitors. The coastal setting and tropical climate make it an ideal location for scuba diving. This Ecuadorian getaway is a small, concentrated community, meaning travel is both quick and easy.
Interconnected streets are packed with businesses offering a wide variety of goods and services to travelers. Dining is quite affordable, and the region contains an assortment of bars, cafes, and restaurants suited to every taste. For tourists with a desire to speak the local language, a Spanish instructional school offers individual and group lessons.
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Jericoacoara, Brazil
For explorers in search of more remote retreat, Jericoacoara, Brazil is a splendid choice nestled behind sweeping sand dunes on the northern coast of Ceara. This pristine beach, affectionately known as Jeri, was deemed one of the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world by the Washington Post. The name derives from the antediluvian language of the Tupi, an indigenous people of Brazil, and means “lair of the turtles.” The site obtained environmental protection in 1984 and became a national park in 2002. Until the 1990s, the area was little more than a sparsely populated fishing village with few signs of modern life. In stark contrast to its past, today it is a lively locale replete with amenities and activities. Prominent attractions include Pedra Furada, a wondrous sixteen-foot-tall natural rock formation, and Duna do Por do Sol, a lofty “sunset dune” where vacationers can witness a majestic sunrise or sunset.
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Cancun, Mexico
A credible list of great beaches would not be complete without iconic Cancun. Located on the southern tip of Mexico, this magnificent city is one of the most visited places in the world. The aptly-named hotel zone contains a multitude of lodging establishments ranging from intimate bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious resorts. Famous for its exquisite white sands and immaculate waters, the beaches of Cancun are unparalleled. Conveniently located and easily accessible, Playa Delfines (“Dolphin Beach”) boasts fourteen miles of sprawling shores free of human-made structures. Along the northern coast is Playa Norte (“North Beach”), where guests can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Caribbean Sea. Playa Maroma in the Riviera Maya is a vast beach perfect for snorkeling. With an abundance of shops and clubs near the beachfront, Playa del Carmen offers a trendy atmosphere in which patrons can purchase keepsakes and experience the nightlife after a relaxing day at the beach.
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Tulum, Mexico
The ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Tulum, which date all the way back to the 13th century, offer an intriguing glimpse into South American history. One of the best-preserved Mayan developments, Tulum is the third most frequented archaeological monument in Mexico. This walled city sits atop steep cliffs and features distinctive styles of Mayan architecture. Key buildings are El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Descending God. On top of its historical significance, Tulum Beach is also fantastically located on the scenic shores of the Yucatan Peninsula. For voyagers who appreciate both antique and contemporary pleasures, this is surely a must-see.
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Malpais, Costa Rica
Malpais in western Costa Rica began in the pre-Columbian era as a modest fishing and agricultural settlement and has recently established itself as a popular tourist town. This profile boost is almost certainly due in part to a prestigious listing in Forbes Magazine as one of the world’s best beaches. So alluring is this unique destination that celebrities, including supermodel Gisele Bundchen and actress Salma Hayek, routinely flock to its stunning shores. Luckily, it does not take a fortune to enjoy this Costa Rica hideaway. Like the majority of South American hot spots, it is rather economical in nearly all respects. Nature enthusiasts will be pleased to discover the diverse plant and animal presence. The name means “bad land,” but this is definitely a misnomer, for anyone who has visited the Pacific paradise can attest that Malpais is one of loveliest areas in the nation.