La Chocolatera owes its name to the chocolate colour of the sea when the convergence of currents lifts the sand from the bottom.
It is one of the most visited places in the province of Santa Elena, located within the facilities of the naval base of Salinas, at the western end of the most prominent point of the Santa Elena Peninsula in the country and the second largest in South America. In this place and due to the sea currents, there is a crash of waves against the rocks, which constitute a unique and colorful spectacle, since the water, when pierced by the strong sun rays, forms multiple rainbows and represents an area of eco-tourist characteristics that are still slightly exploited.
It is made of medium-grained black sand and picón. Its beach is very windy and at the top of the cliff there is a path of about 400 meters that can be walked in about 30 minutes. Precautions must be taken when bathing in it due to the force of the sea in the area.
Its warm waters average 25 degrees Celsius.
In La Chocolatera, and very close to the tip of the surf zone, there is a colony of sea lions, it is thought that they migrated from the south, from the Peruvian coast. According to studies carried out, this colony of sea lions are mostly males, and they fight each other to see who is the dominant male.
It is also possible to enjoy more than 30 different species of shorebirds, including resident, migratory and irregular birds, among which the most common are the black-winged stilt and the plover, while others that are present throughout most of the year are the pelicans, terns, cormorants, herons and seagulls. These species of birds feed on small fish, aquatic insects and invertebrates that are found in the area.
Here, several marine sports are practiced, such as sailing, jet skiing, and surfing (with frequent championships due to its fabulous high, tubular waves). And from June to September, you can observe the spectacle of the passage of humpback whales from the south that seek out these waters to mate and have their young.
In addition, La Chocolatera boasts of being a paradise for those who like to dive, since here you can experience hundreds of tropical fish.
Without a doubt, La Chocolatera is a destination that should not go unnoticed during our visits to the Province of Santa Elena and is recommended for both national and foreign tourists.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- NEVER go beyond the marked boundary.
- No smoking
- No pets allowed.
- Be very careful with children
- No fishing
- Bring a camera
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