Playa Chacaya is a beach located approximately 82 kilometers from the city of Antofagasta and 6 kilometers from the Balneario Hornito in the Mejillones area. The beach features vast expanses of soft sand and is flanked by Playa Grande to one side and Punta Itata to the other. The waters are an intense blue, often with waves that vary in intensity, which can present a shore-break for paddlers launching from the beach. The beach is accessed via a coastal trail, and specific private accommodations mention having exclusive access paths down to the shore and on-site parking. There is no formal boat ramp, so launching involves carrying your craft from the beach access points. The area is remote, with no municipal water supply, and facilities are limited to what is provided by private rentals, which may include post-beach showers and parking. The overall vibe is one of isolation and natural beauty, popular for camping and sunset viewing, offering a chance to disconnect. For paddlers, the varying wave intensity suggests checking conditions carefully before launching. A notable nearby destination for a day trip is Playa Grande, which is connected by a coastal trekking trail that offers impressive views. This trail also passes an observation building for the endangered gaviotín chico (Chilean tern), indicating significant birdlife in the area, including gaviota garuma and gaviota dominicana. The beach's popularity for camping has led to some environmental concerns regarding litter, despite the presence of trash bins and signage, so paddlers should be prepared for a natural setting that requires visitor stewardship to remain pristine.