Camaná

Known for its beaches, Camaná is a magnet for Arequipeños in the summer months (December-March). Outside this time, this small fishing village, like all the other coastal villages, is nearly empty.

Camaná, the capital of the province with the same name, played an important role during colonial times when supplies were unloaded here before being transferred to Arequipa and to the silver mines in Posotí, Bolivia. It was also once home to the Waris, Collaguas, and Incas. But perhaps the most significant history was more recent—and devastating. In 2001 Camaná was on the brink of becoming the coast's next big tourist destination, but a tsunami, resulting from a 8.4 earthquake, leveled hotels, homes, and restaurants. Eight-meter high (26 feet) waves wiped-out most beach resorts along the popular beach La Punta. Camaná is slowly becoming a beachgoers' haven again.

La Punta is Camaná's most popular beach, a stretch of brown granular sand, 5 km (3 mi) from town. While the waves are small and not much swimming goes on here, there's lots of sunbathing, beer-sipping, and volleyball. Discos and bars stand edge to edge, among little hotels and cafés, which provide an alternative to bronzing and bikini-watching. At the very south of La Punta is an area called the caves, a small rocky inlet that's good for wading. Just outside of town La Miel is a rocky inlet with calm waters. It's a popular place for camping and watching sunsets. No matter which beach you hit, bring an umbrella and strong sunscreen—there's no shade.