Concón Dunes
Vast golden sand dunes meeting the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning sunsets, sandboarding, and panoramic coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour and stunning sunsets
Concón Dunes
Best Time
Golden hour and stunning sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast golden sand dunes meeting the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning sunsets, sandboarding, and panoramic coastal views.
"The best sunset is in Concón. The sun shines on you all the way to your heart."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Opt for sneakers or hiking boots. Avoid heels; the sand gets slippery and uneven!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are incredible, especially at dusk. Perfect for photos and picnics.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Sand Dunes
Concón Dunes
Vast, ancient sandhills meeting the Pacific Ocean. A surreal landscape perfect for exploration and photography.
Spectacular Sunsets
Highest points of the dunes
Witness the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky and city lights in vibrant hues. Unforgettable views.
Sandboarding Adventure
Various slopes within the dunes
Rent a board and slide down the sandy slopes for an exhilarating experience. Fun for all ages!
Panoramic Ocean Views
Coastal edge of the dunes
Gaze out at the expansive Pacific Ocean and the coastline stretching towards Viña del Mar and Valparaíso.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sand: What to Wear
Timing Your Visit for Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Opt for sneakers or hiking boots. Avoid heels; the sand gets slippery and uneven!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are incredible, especially at dusk. Perfect for photos and picnics.
🏂 Try Sandboarding
Rent a board for an adrenaline rush down the dunes. Fun for everyone!
🚶♀️ Hike to the Top
Reach the highest points for breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and city.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Opt for sneakers or hiking boots. Avoid heels; the sand gets slippery and uneven!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views are incredible, especially at dusk. Perfect for photos and picnics.
🏂 Try Sandboarding
Rent a board for an adrenaline rush down the dunes. Fun for everyone!
🚶♀️ Hike to the Top
Reach the highest points for breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and city.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if you plan on a long walk or hike.
🚗 Easy Access
Accessible by car or bus, with no entry fee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Concón Dunes for their stunning natural beauty, especially the breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific. The unique landscape where desert meets ocean, coupled with activities like sandboarding, makes it a memorable experience. Some note concerns about encroaching development and erosion, urging gentle exploration.
"The best sunset is in Concón. The sun shines on you all the way to your heart. Great place for picnic with friends or partners. You can get there by car or bus."
Jhaneth Guaman
"I've been in and around the dunes quite a few times during my stay and haven't seen anything like it previously. It's size is quite impressive and seems almost randomly placed. I would recommend to wear comfortable clothing (no high heels or tight clothing) especially for your 1st time as you could trip and tumble on the sand that honestly gets quite slippery sometimes.
If you visit I'd highly recommend going straight to the highest point(s) and then working your way down as the view from the top is pretty impressive (especially at night for the buildings lights). You get to see the ocean, the coastline, buildings, and more.
I'd also choose wisely how much activity you're planning on doing as if you go super down on the dunes (especially the middle part near the ocean) it can be pretty hard to get back up without running. Definitely a great place for a morning or late afternoon walk (especially for a workout)."
Xoom Too
"Incredible to visit. Great explanation at the seaside display. It's very tragic to see encroaching development. Also erosion due to people trampling plants is apparent. Gently visit while you can..."
Liam O'Brien
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Concón Dunes are easily accessible by car or bus from Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Many visitors find it a convenient day trip, with some tours from Santiago also including this stop. 
Yes, parking is generally available near the dunes, though it can get busy during peak times. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure a spot.
Absolutely! Local buses frequently run along the coast and can drop you off near the dunes. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
The Concón Dunes are a short drive from Viña del Mar, typically around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, several tour operators offer day trips from Santiago, Valparaíso, and Viña del Mar that include the Concón Dunes, often combined with other local attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no charge to enter and explore the Concón Dunes. It's a natural public space.
The dunes are a natural landscape and are generally accessible at all hours. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight or early evening is recommended.
There is no entrance fee for the Concón Dunes. Enjoy this natural wonder for free!
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check local regulations regarding pets in natural reserves. To protect the fragile ecosystem, it's often best to leave pets at home.
Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly and respect the natural environment. Avoid trampling on plants and be mindful of erosion.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The highest points of the dunes offer incredible panoramic views of the ocean, coastline, and city lights at night. The transition from desert to ocean is also a unique photographic subject.
Absolutely! The sunsets over the Pacific Ocean from the dunes are renowned for their beauty and vibrant colors, making it a prime location for photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes and ocean. Consider a tripod for sunset shots. Drones are also popular for aerial views.
The highest points of the dunes are considered the primary viewpoints, offering expansive vistas. The seaside display also provides interesting information.
Drone usage is common for capturing aerial shots of the dunes and coastline. However, always check current local regulations regarding drone operation in protected natural areas.
🎫 🏃♀️ Activities & Experiences
Popular activities include sandboarding, hiking, walking, and enjoying picnics. The unique landscape also makes it a great spot for photography and simply relaxing.
Sandboard rentals are often available near the base of the dunes or from local vendors in the Concón area. Inquire locally upon arrival.
Sandboarding can be challenging but fun! It's recommended to start on smaller slopes and work your way up. Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for a bit of a workout.
Yes, the dunes offer a fantastic natural trail for running and hiking. It's a great workout, especially if you aim for the higher points.
While the dunes themselves are sand-based, the proximity to the Pacific Ocean means activities like kayaking are popular nearby, departing from beaches like Lilenes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dedicated restaurants or food stalls directly within the Concón Dunes. However, the nearby town of Concón offers a variety of dining options, from seafood to local Chilean cuisine.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean.
Concón is known for its excellent seafood, particularly its 'empanadas de mariscos' (seafood empanadas) and fresh fish dishes.
Interestingly, 'pegao' or 'concon' (scorched rice from the bottom of a pot) is a local delicacy that has gained viral attention, with some vendors selling it. +2
Bring your own food, drinks, and a blanket. Don't forget trash bags to ensure you leave no trace.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed experience, families can enjoy a picnic with stunning ocean views. The accessibility by car or bus makes it easy to manage with children, and the lack of an entrance fee is a bonus for budget-conscious families. Just ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear for navigating the sandy terrain.
🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes like hiking boots or trail runners, as the sand can be loose and slippery. Bring ample water, especially during warmer months, and consider going in the morning to avoid the midday heat. The dunes offer a unique opportunity to combine exercise with breathtaking natural scenery.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
Aim to be at the highest points of the dunes for the most expansive views. The city lights of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso also add a beautiful element to the evening landscape. Don't forget your wide-angle lenses and perhaps a tripod for those stunning sunset shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and History of the Concón Dunes
Historically, the area has seen both natural processes shaping the dunes and, more recently, the impact of human development. There are concerns about encroaching development and erosion caused by foot traffic, highlighting the fragility of this unique ecosystem. Efforts are being made to preserve the dunes, emphasizing the importance of responsible tourism. Understanding their ancient origins and current challenges adds a layer of appreciation to any visit.
Sandboarding and Adventure Activities
While sandboarding is a major draw, the dunes also provide a fantastic natural playground for hiking and walking. The varied terrain offers a good workout, especially if you venture towards the higher points for panoramic views. The feeling of conquering the sandy inclines and then enjoying the sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding cities is incredibly rewarding.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at the Dunes
Many visitors utilize wide-angle lenses to capture the immense scale of the dunes and the ocean. Drones are also popular for obtaining breathtaking aerial perspectives, showcasing the unique juxtaposition of sand and sea.
Remember to protect your gear from sand and consider a tripod for stable shots during low-light conditions. The ever-changing light ensures that every visit offers a new photographic opportunity. 
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