Hotels in La Serena

Whispers of the Desert: Unveiling La Serena's Hidden Treasures

La Serena, nestled in Chile's Coquimbo Region, is a captivating blend of sun-kissed beaches and rich cultural heritage. With its iconic colonial architecture and vibrant markets, visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions. The stunning Elqui Valley, known for its clear skies and star-gazing opportunities, offers an enchanting escape into nature. Explore nearby beaches, indulge in fresh seafood, or relax under the warm desert sun. Whether you're seeking adventure in the Andes or a romantic sunset by the sea, La Serena promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. For our best hotel rates in La Serena and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in La Serena

La Serena offers a diverse range of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to luxurious beachfront resorts. Travelers can find options catering to various budgets and preferences, with many featuring stunning ocean views and easy access to local attractions. Enjoy comfortable stays in this beautiful coastal city. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in La Serena:

1. Hotel Club La SerenaOpens in a new window: This charming 3.5-star hotel offers a distinctive beach vacation experience with direct access to the shore. It features an inviting outdoor pool and spa services, perfect for relaxation after a day in the sun. Guests can indulge in romantic dining experiences with ocean views from the restaurant, creating memorable moments. The property is known for its friendly staff and excellent service, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere throughout your stay.
2. Hotel y Cabañas CampanarioOpens in a new window: Experience the allure of a lovely colonial style hotel at this 3.5-star property, where beach lovers will feel right at home. Enjoy stunning ocean views from your room, along with the soothing sounds of the waves. This hotel captures the essence of a seaside retreat, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking relaxation and a picturesque setting. The charming architectural design enhances the overall ambiance, providing a delightful escape.
3. Primera Hacienda Hotel BoutiqueOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star hotel is a hidden gem for travelers seeking comfort and distinctive experiences. With complimentary daily breakfast and a variety of dining options, guests can start their day right. The property features entertainment amenities such as premium television channels and a flatscreen television, ensuring a cozy atmosphere. Its prime location near historical districts adds a unique touch, allowing for exploration of local culture and sights, making it a captivating stay for leisure travelers.

Top locations to stay in La Serena

Some great areas to stay in while visiting La Serena, Coquimbo Region, Chile, are Coquimbo and Talca. Coquimbo offers stunning beaches like La Herradura, vibrant nightlife at the Coquimbo Casino, and local markets for shopping. Talca, known for its rich cultural scene, provides a more tranquil experience. For first-time visitors, Coquimbo is best suited due to its beach and entertainment options.

1. CoquimboOpens in a new window: Coquimbo is a vibrant coastal city that offers stunning beaches and a rich cultural scene. With its beautiful coastline, you can soak up the sun at La Herradura Beach or Cuatro Esquinas Beach, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The charm of this area is complemented by the Coquimbo Municipal Market, where you can find local crafts and fresh produce. After a day by the sea, take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the lively atmosphere. For those interested in astronomy, the Collowara Observatory is a must-visit, offering spectacular views of the night sky. Coquimbo truly combines the beauty of nature with cultural experiences, making it an ideal place to unwind and explore.
2. TalcaOpens in a new window: Talca is a quaint city that offers a glimpse into the traditional Chilean lifestyle. Known for its beautiful parks and historic architecture, it's a great place to relax and enjoy the local culture. While it's smaller than Coquimbo, Talca has a unique charm with its local markets and friendly atmosphere. Explore the local shops for unique souvenirs and handmade goods. The city is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, perfect for a day trip to experience the stunning views of the Maule Region. Talca is a peaceful destination that allows you to immerse yourself in the local vibe while enjoying a slower pace of life.

Things to do in La Serena

La Serena boasts stunning coastal views and a dramatic desert backdrop, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Picture yourself snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking up rugged mountains, or exploring tranquil lakes and lush forests. With plenty of opportunities for scuba diving and scenic walks, this destination invites you to embrace its natural beauty.

• Sea AvenueOpens in a new window – Stroll along the beautiful Sea Avenue, where the stunning coastal views blend seamlessly with the vast desert landscape. This iconic landmark is perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride, offering a refreshing breeze and the sounds of the waves crashing against the shore.
• La Serena LighthouseOpens in a new window – Make your way to the historic La Serena Lighthouse, a beacon that has guided sailors for decades. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding area, and capture some fantastic photos of this charming landmark against the desert backdrop.
• Kokoro No Niwa Japanese GardenOpens in a new window – Escape to the tranquility of the Kokoro No Niwa Japanese Garden. This serene urban park invites you to enjoy its meticulously designed landscapes, complete with koi ponds and blooming cherry blossoms. It's a great spot to relax and recharge amidst nature.
• Jardin del CorazonOpens in a new window – Embrace the beauty of the Jardin del Corazon, a botanical garden bursting with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. Wander through its winding paths, and take the time to appreciate the diverse plant life that thrives in this desert oasis.
• San Agustin ChurchOpens in a new window – Visit the San Agustin Church, an impressive architectural gem that showcases the rich history of La Serena. Admire its intricate details and stunning interiors, and take a moment to reflect in this peaceful place of worship.

5 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 typically lower. For those on a budget, staying at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully explore the city’s significant landmarks and cultural attractions, including its historical sites and unique desert landscapes. This timeframe offers great value for money, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture that La Serena has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore last-minute deals to La Serena, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. With Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window the app's comparison tool, you can easily compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're informed about any price drops or room availability. This way, you're more likely to spot the best options for your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you find better rates for your stay in a La Serena hotel. If you're interested in a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and might offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates, which may help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer great convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, consider looking at hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit further out; these options are usually more likely to be affordable while still providing convenient access to the sights you want to see. You might also want to check out independent hotels located further away, as they can offer a more authentic experience at a lower cost.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in La Serena. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

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.