Mejillones

A charming fishing village 60 kilometers north of Antofagasta known for its authentic character and excellent seafood restaurants along the waterfront. The town offers a more relaxed alternative to the city while maintaining access to beautiful beaches and maritime culture.

Things to do

• Waterfront Stroll — Walk along the malecón to observe fishing boats, local life, and the Pacific Ocean while taking in the maritime atmosphere.
• Playa Municipal Beach — Swim and relax at the main town beach, popular with locals and offering calm waters protected by the harbor.
• Visit Local Fish Market — Explore the early-morning mercado de pescado to watch fishermen unload their catch and purchase fresh seafood directly from vendors.
• Boat Tours to Nearby Islands — Arrange excursions through local operators to see sea lions, penguins, and seabirds on the small islands off the coast.
• Sunset Point at Puerto Viejo — Head to the old port area at sunset to photograph the fishing vessels and coastal landscape bathed in golden light.
• Hiking Nearby Desert Trails — Take short hikes into the surrounding Atacama foothills for panoramic views of the town, ocean, and arid landscape.

Food to try

• Caldillo de Congrio — This traditional Chilean fish stew made with local conger eel, potatoes, and seafood broth is a specialty at waterfront restaurants.
• Ceviches y Tiraditos — Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice and served with local peppers and onions, showcasing the day's catch at beachside eateries.
• Empanadas de Mariscos — Golden-fried pastries stuffed with a mix of local shellfish, cheese, and spices are sold at market stalls and cafés.
• Paila Marina — A hearty shared seafood platter combining mussels, clams, scallops, and fish in a rich broth, perfect for two people.
• Machas a la Parmesana — Razor clams topped with parmesan cheese and baked until golden, a beloved local preparation found in quality seafood restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Lunch is the Main Meal — Expect restaurants to be busiest between 1 and 3 p.m. when locals take their principal meal; dinner service typically begins around 7 p.m.
• Cash is Preferred — While some establishments accept cards, many small seafood vendors and casual eateries operate on cash-only basis, so carry Chilean pesos.
• Respect Fishing Culture — The town's identity revolves around fishing; show respect by not photographing fishermen without permission and supporting local family-run restaurants and markets.
• Visit Early Morning — Arrive at the fish market and waterfront by 7 or 8 a.m. to experience authentic daily activity before the morning catches are sold out.