A small port town catering to tourism, Paracas serves as the jumping point for tours to Islas Ballestas and to Paracas National Reserve.

The Museo Julio C. Tello [es], also found just near the southwestern edge of Paracas Bay, provides information about Paracas culture and the many unique species, particularly birds, inhabiting the area.

Paracas lies in a windy area where strong air currents carry sand, hence the town's name "Paracas", from Quechua: para (rain) and aco (sand).

On September 7, 1820, General José de San Martín landed at Paracas with six ships of his Peruvian Freedom Expedition from Chile.

Paracas has become one of the major beach resorts of Peru and has received much hotel investment.