Isla Damas

The beaches on Isla Damas are quite unusual for Chile, and you might think you've landed on an island somewhere in the Mediterranean. The environment is arid, with low shrubs clinging to the sandy soil. The island has two beaches: La Poza and Las Tijeras, both of which have fine white sand and clear turquoise water. They are also on the sheltered side of the island, with a view of the mountains on the mainland a few miles away. This calms the water and makes it safer (though still chilly) for bathing.

Isla Damas is one of three islands that make up the National Humboldt Penguin Reserve, located 5 kilometers west of Punta de Choros. Unlike the islands of Choros and Chaaral, however, Damas is the only one where you can disembark. There is also a small camping area.

As one might expect, there is a plethora of wildlife in this area. Sea birds, dolphins, sea lions, sea otters, and Humboldt penguins can all be seen here, but to get up close and personal, you'll need to take one of the many boat trips that depart from the beach.