17.- HNA Marina Sol 2

The grounds at Marina Sol 2 are lovely, the concierge team were great, and the place was clean. My stay in apartment 707 on the seventh floor, though, was a real letdown. The owner only got back to me after I had asked three times. The apartment wasn't properly clean when we arrived, the tables and chairs were in rough shape, the shower was broken, and the TV wouldn't switch on. We also had a day without water because of a service interruption. Be wary if someone offers you apartment 707 there.

We had a great stay and were welcomed warmly. The buildings and apartments are lovely, clean, and feel very safe. Security, the cleaners, and the neighbors were all attentive. You can rent a barbecue area for a cookout, and the place works well for families or friends. Shops and the beach are close, getting around is easy, and downtown Coquimbo isn't far. I'd recommend staying here.

It's a group of several 17-story towers, with some apartments rented out and others lived in year-round. Parking is outdoors, and access is controlled around the clock at both the parking area and each tower's lobby. There's a decent-sized pool open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The apartments are comfortable, about two blocks from the casino and two from Vivo outlet mall, right on the La Serena-Coquimbo border. Views depend on the unit, and a number of apartments don't look out over the ocean.

From here it's easy to reach nearby beaches like Totoralillo, with Route 5 and the waterfront just 100 meters away. La Serena beach is also that close, though swimming there isn't recommended because of the dangerous deep holes. The complex has a sunny pool, parking, a reception desk open 24 hours, and Wi-Fi in the common area. The waterfront is lined with restaurants and bars, and the casino is a short walk away. A very nice place on the La Serena-Coquimbo border, highly recommended.