Pichilemu is a seaside, year-round resort on the Pacific coast. It is a famous surfing center and one of the best places in South America to practice this sport.
The city was founded in the 17th century on the site of the Promaucaes settlement, one of the indigenous groups of pre-Columbian culture. Initially, it was primarily a commercial center, but at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, thanks to the activities of Augustin Ross, it turned into a popular seaside resort. The Ross family in 1935 gave the city their park, which, under the name Bosque Municipal, is today one of the main attractions of Pichilem. You can also visit the August Ross Cultural Center located in the former family estate.
Visiting Pichilem leads mainly through the areas of the Typical Zone, i.e. the historic district with colonial buildings. Outside there is a wooden train station and the historic El Arbol tunnel.
The biggest attraction of Pichilem are the local beaches. They are covered with dark, almost black sand in some places. The more famous ones are Infiernillo Beach, La Puntilla Beach and Hermosa Beach. South of the city is Punta de Lobos, one of the most important windsurfing centers in the country. The waves here reach 9 m and are known among surfers all over the world. The center regularly hosts championship competitions.
