Playa Las Machas, Pacific Ocean beach in Arica, Chile.
Playa Las Machas is a 11.7 kilometer (7.3 mile) stretch of sand along the Pacific coast, extending from Chinchorro Beach to the Lluta River mouth. The expansive shoreline features a gently sloping beach with varied zones suitable for swimming and walking.
The beach takes its name from macha clams, a shellfish that once thrived in these waters and were harvested by local communities. Clam digging was for many years a key resource for people living along this coast.
Fishermen working along the shore use methods passed down through generations and shape local food culture with fresh seafood. These fishing traditions have been woven into the rhythm of northern Chile's coastal life for a long time.
You can reach the beach via Luis Beretta and Las Dunas avenues, where lifeguards patrol during operating hours. The northern area offers camping spots, which works well if you prefer a quieter experience away from busier sections.
The northern section sees fewer visitors than other parts of the beach, creating a quieter setting for camping and coastal exploration. Those who venture here find solitude and space without the crowds that gather in more popular areas.
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