what are different things you can do in punta del este uruguay

8 things to do in Punta del Este

• Hit the beach ...
• Eyeball the South American tourists on Golero street and ‘Fashion Road’ ...
• Take your photo at ‘The Hand’ ...
• Eat a chivito – Punta is the birthplace of Uruguay’s famous steak sandwich ...
• Stroll Old Punta ...
• Check out enormous seals close up ...
• Visit the site of one of World War II’s most emblematic South American battles ...
• Drive the leafy avenues of Punta’s luxurious past

Full Answer

What is there to do in Punta del Este?

With all the water surrounding Punta del Este, sailing is popular and large marinas attract an international flotilla. Beach activities, plus golf, tennis, horseback riding, biking, bird-watching, and numerous watersports, such as parasailing, windsurfing, water-skiing and snorkeling on both Playa Mansa and Playa Brava.

What to do in La La Barra?

La Barra is a center of youth-oriented activities, from daytime sports on the fine sandy beach to all night discos. To get to this small village, you cross an unusual bridge shaped like an easy roller coaster. With all the water surrounding Punta del Este, sailing is popular and large marinas attract an international flotilla.

Where to go in South America in summer?

The place to be in summer in South America is Punta del Este, Uruguay's playground for the rich and famous. Of course, you don't need to be part of the elite to enjoy a summer vacation in Punta.

What is there to do in Punta Cana?

Beach activities, plus golf, tennis, horseback riding, biking, bird-watching, and numerous watersports, such as parasailing, windsurfing, water-skiing and snorkeling on both Playa Mansa and Playa Brava. "Punta has world-class shopping, with Uruguayan shops and European boutiques lining Calle Gorlero, the principal street bisecting this resort town.

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Why do people go to Punta del Este?

Punta del Este is known for its beaches, surfing, beautiful people and an ardent night scene. It is expensive, usually about 50% more expensive than other areas of Uruguay, if not more. There are many travel sights, including the amazing restaurants. It's been called the Monaco of South America.

What are Uruguay's three main tourist destinations?

The top three most visited destinations in the country are Montevideo, the capital city, Colonia del Sacramento, a famous day tour destination for people from Buenos Aires, and Punta Del Este, South America's most exclusive beach resort.

Is Punta del Este worth visiting?

Is Punta del Este worth visiting? Yes! If you're looking for a breathtaking vacation destination, look no further than Punta Del Este, Uruguay. This stunning seaside city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in South America, as well as world-class restaurants and nightlife.

What is the most visited city in Uruguay?

Punta del Este is Uruguay's most popular tourist destination. This beach town is home to beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and trendy restaurants. It's often nicknamed the Saint-Tropez of South America.

What Uruguay is famous for?

Uruguay is the smallest Spanish speaking country in South America. ... Uruguay means “river of painted birds” ... Uruguay is the biggest consumer of beef in the world. ... It has the longest national anthem in the world. ... Uruguay hosted the 1st World cup ever. ... Uruguayans are obsessed with Mate.More items...•

What is Uruguay famous food?

AsadoAsado. Asado is the quintessential Uruguayan food. It consists of a massive grill called parrilla, where the asador (the meat chef) grills different meats, sausages, vegetables, and cheese using the embers from a wood fire.

How many days do you need in Punta del Este?

How long to appreciate the things to do in Punta del Este: 3-4 days (preferably over a weekend) Now you've read this post on things to do in Punta del Este, Uruguay, don't miss these guides: If we only had 2 weeks: Uruguay itinerary. Safety tips for backpacking in South America.

How big is Punta del Este?

7.857 mi²Punta del Este / Area

What is the hand of Punta del Este?

La Mano (The Hand) is a sculpture in Punta del Este by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal. It depicts five human fingers partially emerging from sand and is located on Parada 1 at Brava Beach in Punta del Este, a popular tourist town in Uruguay.

Is Uruguay worth visiting?

Uruguay is not yet globally known as a tourist destination, but it might be one of the best places to visit for first-time travelers. For one, it's ideal for those who don't want crowded landmarks.

Is Uruguay a beautiful country?

Uruguay's coastline doesn't come with palm-fringed, golden sands or turquoise waters, but this small South American country still has lots of beautiful, pristine coastal destinations for sun lovers, with plenty of waterfront promenades, resorts, and boating areas.

Are there nice beaches in Uruguay?

15 Best Beaches in UruguayPunta del Este. The Mano at Brava Beach. ... Pocitos. Pocitos Beach. ... Playa del Rivero. Playa del Rivero. ... Piriapolis. Piriapolis. ... Cabo Polonio. Cabo Polonio sand dunes at sunset. ... La Esmeralda. La Esmeralda Beach. ... La Pedrera. La Pedrera Beach. ... Costa Azul. Lifeguard hut at Costa Azul beach.More items...•

Who is a famous person from Uruguay?

Alfredo Zitarrosa was a Uruguayan singer, composer, poet, writer and journalist. He is regarded as one of the most important figures in the popular music of his country and Latin America in general.

What is the most popular sport in Uruguay?

Football (soccer)Football (soccer) is a national obsession in Uruguay, and the country holds one of the most storied histories in the game.

Is Uruguay worth visiting?

Uruguay is not yet globally known as a tourist destination, but it might be one of the best places to visit for first-time travelers. For one, it's ideal for those who don't want crowded landmarks.

Why is Uruguay a good place?

And while some might struggle to locate Uruguay (population 3.4 million) on a map or name its river-facing capital, Montevideo, its dynamic coastline, extended carnival season and UNESCO cultural heritage status make it a prime Latin American vacation spot.

Take a picture with La Mano

Go to Playa Brava next to Parada 1, and you’ll see a giant hand emerging from the sand. Called La Mano ("The Hand"), it was created in the 1980s by Chilean artist Mario Irrazábal as part of a sculpture exhibition.

Hang out at the cat cafe

Just three blocks away from Playa Inglesa, Adrianuzca’s Cat Café acts as a cat shelter and adoption center, where patrons can pet the fluffy residents while sipping cat-themed espresso-based beverages. Most of the seating is in the cat room where several felines zip around the ceiling ledge, sit in small chairs, and munch on cat food.

Swim with sea lions at Isla de Lobos

A tiny island just off the coast of Punta del Este, Isla de Lobos holds the world’s second largest southern sea lion colony (about 1,500) and one of the tallest lighthouses in South America.

Tan at Bikini Beach

Layout on one of Punta’s top-notch beaches: kite surf-happy Playa Brava, the calm lake-like shore of Playa Mansa, the clothing optional Playa Chihuahua, or the tiny Playa de los Ingleses. A little outside of town in Manantiales however is the hottest spot to tan: Bikini Beach.

Learn pirate history at the Sea Museum

A natural history museum with over 5,000 specimens of aquatic life from all over the world, the Museo del Mar ("Sea Museum") provides a multi-pronged approach to learning about the ocean, its inhabits, and its visitors.

Go surfing

Punta de Este is one of Uruguay’s most popular surf spots. Windsurfers, kite surfers, regular surfers, and standup paddleboarders can be seen riding the waves along Punta’s coast, as well as the surrounding beach towns throughout the year. You can rent surf equipment and take lessons in multiple kinds of surfing from several schools in the area.

Bike along the coast

Ruta 10 hugs the coast on either side of Punta del Este, passing through beach towns to the east and west, perfect for exploring on two wheels. While some hostels and hotels will rent bikes directly, it’s also possible to rent from bike companies like Rent a Bike Punta del Este and Specialized Punta del Este for the day.

Where is the old Punta?

Old Punta is part of the Peninsula and it is packed with the most emblematic of Punta— the famous ‘hand’ sculpture rising from the sand and the marina where millionaires moor their yachts. Have a wander around the old part of Peninsula above the port – it’s a very different Punta from the highrise-lined coast. By old I mean solid inter-war houses and some lowrise apartments, nothing colonial. Close to the church there’s a testing ground from where Marconi, the inventor of the telegraph who lived in Punta from 1910 to 1911, made the first transatlantic radio contact to Europe.

Where is the southernmost point of Uruguay?

At the far end of the peninsula lies Punta Salinas, where the River Plate officially ends and the Atlantic Ocean begins. It’s the southernmost point of Uruguay. From this point locals watched World War II history in the making as the British Royal Navy cruisers Ajax, Exeter and Achilles fought the Graf Spee in the Battle of the River Plate in 1939. The Ajax’s anchor lies in the Plaza Gran Bretaña.

How many pages are in the Uruguay wine guidebook?

Includes 42 pages just on wine!

What are the best places to visit in Punta del Este?

La Barra and Manantiales are very similar; they both have a main street parallel to the shore, covered in beautiful shops, amazing restaurants, and lively bars. Manantiales is smaller than La Barra, but makes up for it by having some of the best restaurants in the whole of Punta del Este. A few recommendations are Cactus y Pescados where you will eat amazing seafood, No Me Olvides, regarded by many as the best pizzeria in the world, and Sipan, home to incredible Peruvian cuisine. Bikini Beach is a classic of Manantiales, and very popular during high season. Here you can spot surfers, dance at the beach bar, and watch the sunset against the backdrop of the Punta del Este skyscrapers.

Where to drive to Punta del Este?

Driving to José Ignacio, a town on the outskirts of Punta del Este , would definitely be a highlight of your trip. It is a unique resort that has expanded and developed to fit the needs of the high-end travelers that each year grew exponentially, while maintaining its original relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. José Ignacio is a bit of an escape from the glamorous Punta del Este, while still having access to the best quality restaurants, stores, and art galleries. Going up the lighthouse to gaze at the scenic landscapes all around is an unforgettable experience to finish your trip.

What is the most famous beach in Uruguay?

Punta del Este is the most famous coastal resort in Uruguay, welcoming tourists from all over the world every summer. It’s a big, luxurious city, spanning the Atlantic coast. Punta del Este attracts visitors of all ages; families, solo backpackers, couples on honeymoon, groups of friends. As long as you want to relax and have a good time, there’s always something to do in Punta. These are the best attractions so you know what to expect.

What is the prettiest neighborhood in Punta del Este?

The neighborhood of Beverly Hills is one of the prettiest in Punta del Este, with its huge houses and even bigger gardens. This gleaming white museum is no exception – but inside is even more exciting. You’ll find Surrealist sculptures by Salvador Dalí, including his melting clock, along with bulbous human figurines by Fernando Botero, and the cartoonish paintings of Beryl Cook. Alongside the European Modernist and Postmodernist work is an incredible collection of Latin American art.

What is the most famous casino in Punta del Este?

Conrad is an icon to Punta del Este. This hotel is an architectural landmark, a trendy beach hub for people to meet, a source of culture, shows and performances, home to one of the most popular nightclubs in the city, and also the most famous casino. In the daytime, you can visit Conrad ’s beach bar called OVO (the same as its nightclub) that has people drinking and dancing all day long. At night, take your chances at the casino, or book tickets to see one of the music, stand-up comedy, or theater shows. OVO nightclub also brings in famous national and international DJs, so you are guaranteed to have a good time.

Where is Casapueblo in Punta Ballena?

Casapueblo is a museum and hotel, perched on a cliff on the top of a stunning viewpoint in Punta Ballena. From the terraces of Casapueblo, you will catch the most beautiful sunsets, and spot sea animals swimming in the Atlantic right below. It was originally designed by Uruguayan artist and architect Carlos Páez Vilaró to be his art studio, resulting in a unique architecture inspired by the nests of the rufous hornero bird. You can have lunch at the hotel’s excellent restaurant, with an outdoor terrace leading right to the Atlantic, and take the opportunity to explore the structure from the inside, as well as the exquisite museum.

Where is the best place to see modern art in Latin America?

It is located in the neighborhood of Beverly Hills, one of the prettiest in Punta del Este for its huge houses with enormous gardens, parks, and lots of greenery. This museum is no exception, and includes a lovely sculpture garden. This is the perfect place to satiate your curiosity on the different art movements in Latin America. Watch out for moving exhibitions, special events, and symposiums.

What is the best place to visit in Punta del Este?

Punta del Este is not short on exciting nightlife. There is a little something for everyone here. One of the most popular spots is Moby Dick Pub, a bar at the port, with an inviting terrace to enjoy the warm Punta summer. If you want to spot celebrities head for Tequila, an exclusive nightclub which draws the rich, famous and beautiful. Whether you go to the city's fanciest hotspots, chilled bars, or one of the casinos, the nightlife is sure to be pumping over the summer months.

Why should I visit Punta del Este?

Punta del Este's location on the point of the peninsula means you can choose between the calmer coast at Playa Mansa, or the windier side at Playa Brava ; perfect for surfers. If you want to follow the model crowd, head to Bikini Beach in La Barra.

What is the name of the sculpture in Punta del Este?

One of the most iconic images of Punta del Este is the famous hand sculpture, with fingers rising out of the sand. Known as La Mano or Los Dedos, this sculpture made by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal emerges from the beach on Playa Brava. Don't leave Punta without getting a picture of the famous fingers.

Where to go in summer in South America?

The place to be in summer in South America is Punta del Este , Uruguay's playground for the rich and famous. Of course, you don't need to be part of the elite to enjoy a summer vacation in Punta. The beautiful beaches, and endless array of chic restaurants, bars, and nightclubs draw Argentinian and Brazilian holidaymakers and other foreign tourists alike, who come to soak up the sun in this glamorous city. To enjoy the best this destination, we present you 12 Things to Do in Punta Del Este.

What to do on a rainy day in Uruguay?

A good option on a rainy day or to entertain the kids away from the beach is Museo del Mar. This Museum of the Sea has a large collection, and is a fascinating place to learn more about the natural and social history of Uruguay's coastline. Expect whale skeletons, vast shell collections, a pirate room, memorabilia and more.

Where to go in Uruguay?

Once you've soaked up enough sun, head inland to enjoy some of Uruguay's pretty countryside. The town of Garzón and its surroundings offer wonderful landscapes to relax in. Head to Hotel and Restaurant Garzón, where legendary Argentine chef Francis Mallmann heads up the kitchen. Or, explore the olive farm Colinas de Garzón where you can taste premium extra virgin olive oils.

Where to see sea lions in Punta del Este?

Take a break from the glitzy people and shoreline with a boat tour to Isla de Lobos. This island, located 8.5 km from Punta del Este, is home to a large colony of sea lions. Get a close up view of the colony on the island and sail past the Isla de Lobos Lighthouse.

What is the shopping mall in Punta?

Punta Shopping Mall, Avenida Roosevelt at Paradas 6 and 7, has 100 stores on three levels and a 12-screen cinema.

What is the name of the island in Uruguay?

Punta del Este , Uruguay is called the St. Tropez of Uruguay for its miles of beautiful, pristine beaches, its upscale and exclusive resort tradition, famed nightlife, and the wealth of its summer visitors.

What is the name of the beach in Maldonado?

Locals use other beaches, notably La Barra de Maldonado, a beautiful inlet that flows from the back bay area of Maldonado out to the Atlantic Ocean. One of the city landmarks is the Dedos, fingers, in the sand at Playa Brava. 02 of 09.

What is La Barra Village?

La Barra Village. La Barra is a center of youth-oriented activities, from daytime sports on the fine sandy beach to all night discos. To get to this small village, you cross an unusual bridge shaped like an easy roller coaster.

Where to see sea lions in the world?

Take a boat ride to Isla de Lobos to see one of the world's largest sea-lion colonies

Where is the Marco de los Reyes?

See the Marco de los Reyes in the Plaza Torre del Vigía. This white and rose marble marker was created in Lisbon in 1753 and erected to mark the division between Spanish and Portuguese holdings in South America according to the 1750 Treaty of Madrid.

Is Punta del Este expensive?

Expensive by local standards, Punta del Este is attractively priced compared to European and US resorts. In the off-season, Punta del Este is more relaxed and resembles any resting seaside resort. Many of the restaurants and shops close, but the beautiful beaches are still there. 01 of 09.

Where to stay in Punta del Este?

As Punta del Este is a favourite spot for holidaying Brazilians, there is a wealth of accommodation options open to you. For hostels, we recommend El Viajero Punta del Este for its party vibes, or the F&F Hostel if you don’t mind being further out of the town (only by a few streets, totally walkable!). F&F’s atmosphere was a bit dull during low season as it’s set up for all socialising to be done outside by the pool, but when the weather is good and the beds are full it’s got excellent potential!

Where is the Dedos sculpture?

As you go round, you’ll see the coast change from yellow sands on the East of the Punta del Este peninsula (where the Dedos sculpture is) to battered, weather-worn rocks on the West. If the sea isn’t too choppy, you can walk out onto some of the rocks.

Is there a beach in Punta del Este?

There are beaches on both sides of the city; I’ve already mentioned Playa Brava where the Dedos sculpture is, which is a particularly wide stretch of clean sand, perfect for a day of relaxing. There’s not much in the way of food and drinks stalls during low season, but this will definitely heat up when there are more tourists visiting Punta del Este.

Is Punta del Este a Miami?

Being known as the Miami of Uruguay, or even the Hamptons of South America, this city has a very different feel to the rest of the country. Punta del Este oozes the desire for luxury, and in places feels a lot more like Marbella than we were expecting. The city has a huge reputation for being the coolest play to vacay if you’re a wealthy young thang in the South-East of South America. Perhaps you need to know is that Punta del Este has a Trump Tower…

Is La Barra a good place to visit?

La Barra town is nice for a wander and a coffee; as a more residential area you can expect more of a buzz here regardless of Punta del Este’s tourism season. A definite highlight is the small marijuana museum ( Museo de Marihuana) inside a souvenir shop at the very beginning of the town, near the crazy bridge. The museum is free to enter, and you can expect an enthusiastic tour from the slightly nuts but hugely welcoming owners. The shop itself has lots of cool things on sale at 3 for 2 on everything.

Do you have to wait for a photo at Los Dedos?

Unless you’re an influencer who has the motivation to turn up to Los Dedos sculpture at dawn, you may have to wait in a queue for a photo during high season, and don’t expect to get all the Dedos in your photo as other tourists will be commandeering fingers left right and centre. I’m not bitter.

Is Playa Mansa open during low season?

On the other side of the city, head to the sprawling Playa Mansa for sunset by the pier and to hang out in Ovo Bar. This is unfortunately closed during low season but is breathtakingly cool as the day ends. There is also an outdoor gym to the South of this beach if you’re missing your weights at home.