Hotels in La Serena

Whispers of the Desert: Discover La Serena's Timeless Allure

La Serena, nestled in the Coquimbo Region of Chile, is a picturesque coastal city that harmoniously blends stunning beaches with rich cultural heritage. Known for its charming colonial architecture and vibrant markets, this destination offers a delightful escape. Explore the nearby Elqui Valley, famous for its starry skies and pisco vineyards, or bask on the golden sands of Playa La Serena. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the breathtaking landscapes of Fray Jorge National Park. With its warm climate and inviting atmosphere, La Serena is a perfect spot for romantic getaways or leisurely family holidays, promising unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Top locations to stay in La Serena

In Coquimbo, La Herradura, and Guanaqueros, each area offers unique attractions. Coquimbo boasts impressive monuments and cultural sites, while La Herradura is celebrated for its beautiful beach and vibrant atmosphere. Guanaqueros, known for its serene coastal charm, is perfect for relaxation. For first-time visitors, La Herradura is the best choice, providing a lively beach experience.

1. CoquimboOpens in a new window: Coquimbo is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning monuments and rich maritime history. The picturesque harbour area, with its iconic lighthouse and the serene beaches, offers a perfect blend of culture and relaxation. Visitors can explore the historical sites like the Cross of the Third Millennium, which provides breathtaking views of the bay. The lively markets and local artisan shops are great for picking up unique souvenirs, while the waterfront promenade is ideal for leisurely strolls. Coquimbo is also a gateway to various cultural attractions, making it a fantastic base for your adventures in the region.
2. La HerraduraOpens in a new window: La Herradura is a charming beach town that boasts some of the best sandy shores in the Coquimbo Region. This area is perfect for those looking to unwind by the sea, with its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. The beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, while nearby cafes provide the perfect spot to enjoy local cuisine with a view. La Herradura is also a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like kayaking and snorkelling. For a peaceful retreat, the sunsets here are simply breathtaking, making it a delightful choice for beach lovers.
3. GuanaquerosOpens in a new window: Guanaqueros is a quaint seaside village known for its tranquil ambiance and beautiful coastline. The area is perfect for those seeking a more laid-back experience, with stunning beaches that are less crowded than nearby locations. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood from local vendors and enjoy a leisurely day soaking up the sun. The village’s charm lies in its simplicity, making it a great spot for relaxed beach walks and enjoying the serene environment. Guanaqueros is ideal for travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still enjoying the beauty of Chile’s coastline.

Things to do in La Serena

La Serena enchants visitors with its stunning coastal scenery, where golden beaches meet rugged cliffs, offering perfect spots for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling. The backdrop of majestic mountains invites hiking and exploration, while tranquil parks and lakes provide serene spaces for leisurely strolls. Dive into vibrant underwater worlds or embark on scenic boat tours for a truly memorable experience.

• Playa La HerraduraOpens in a new window – Dive into the sun-kissed sands of Playa La Herradura, a stunning beach known for its tranquil waters and striking natural beauty. This beach is a perfect spot for a day of relaxation or a fun-filled family outing. The gentle waves make it ideal for swimming or splashing about, while the surrounding desert landscape adds a unique touch to the scenery. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, collect shells, or simply unwind with a good book as you listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean. For those looking to indulge in some adventure, consider trying out water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a picturesque setting, perfect for capturing memorable photographs. Whether you're seeking a day of leisure or a little action, Playa La Herradura offers a delightful escape for every traveller.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in La Serena

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit La Serena is during May, June, and August, when hotel prices are lower. For a comprehensive experience that includes sightseeing, cultural tours, and relaxing at the beach, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows you to explore the city’s significant landmarks and historical sites, making it a budget-friendly getaway that offers great value for money. Additionally, during these months, prices could drop further, providing an even more attractive option for those travelling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to La Serena, consider exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could find out about flash sales and special promotions, helping you stay informed about potential savings. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options. With these features, you'll be among the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in La Serena. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your selected dates is above or below the average. If the price is relatively high, we’ll suggest alternative dates that might be more affordable, helping you potentially secure the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Opting for accommodation closer to key attractions or city centres may provide convenience, but it often entails higher expenses. For more budget-friendly options, you might consider hotels situated in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit. Independent hotels located a bit further out are usually more likely to be affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.

Best time to go to La Serena

La Serena experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 56.7°F (13.7°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 67.8°F (19.9°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit La Serena are January to March, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, May, June, and August are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no rainfall and sunny conditions.