Bahía Inglesa, Coastal bight in Atacama Region, Chile
Bahía Inglesa is a bight in the Atacama Region featuring white sand and turquoise waters with several swimming areas including La Piscina and Las Machas beaches. The curved bay formation creates sheltered zones where water conditions remain calm and suitable for different types of swimmers.
English privateer Edward Davis anchored here in 1687, giving the bay its current name and marking an important moment in Chilean maritime history. This encounter demonstrates how foreign maritime activities influenced the naming and development of the coastal region.
The San Vicente de Paul Church, built in 1862, combines Chilean and French architectural styles through its wooden neo-Gothic design. This building reflects how the coastal community preserved its heritage while incorporating influences from different cultures.
The bay is accessible via Desierto de Atacama Airport near Copiapó or by traveling north on Route 5 directly to the coast. Be prepared for the intense sun and dry climate of the Atacama region, and plan your visit accordingly.
The nearby Caldera Paleontological Museum showcases marine fossils dating back millions of years, discovered in the surrounding coastal areas. These discoveries reveal how the coastline and marine life have changed dramatically over geological time.
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