Best things to do in Punta del Este
Find the best things to do in this top resort destination in Uruguay, from romantic sunset cruises and wine tastings to tours of historic landmarks
From chic daytime oceanfront lounging to world-class dining that kicks off long after midnight, the best things to do in Punta del Este highlight a city that truly knows how to celebrate the good life. The city showcases its distinct charms while offering countless unforgettable experiences. You can dive into the sea to encounter the local marine life, watch performances at a vibrant urban square, or dance until sunrise at a port-side nightclub. Or maybe you’d rather sail to an island nature reserve or bask in the quiet atmosphere of the old city? Whether you’re seeking a romantic trip as a couple, a fun-filled break with your best friends, or a great family vacation, this thriving seaside resort hosts a range of activities to suit you. Hotels in Punta del Este offer an array of accommodation, from glamorous resorts and polished boutique stays to secluded park and garden estates. So, let’s take a trip to the southern shores of Uruguay, where Punta del Este promises plenty of excitement for travelers seeking their own custom adventure.
01
Kick back and relax at the beach
It may be an obvious choice for a coastal resort town, but there’s a reason that sunning yourself on Punta del Este’s beaches remains a popular choice for visitors. There’s a wide variety of beachfronts to choose between, from more commercial coastlines filled with beachfront boutiques and restaurants to quieter stretches of shore where you can enjoy a picnic in peace.
Found on the Atlantic side of the city, the five-mile-long Brava Beach boasts a central location along with plenty of amenities. The coast here is lined with public artworks, most notably the city’s famous La Mano de Punta del Este landmark. Completed in 1982, this giant sculpture was created by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal and is made up of fingers that dramatically rise up from the sands. Alongside works of art, Brava Beach features plenty of waterfront eateries and stores, while also being a popular surfing destination, with classes for beginners and surfboards available for rent.
On the other side of Punta del Este is Mansa Beach. The coastline here is smoother, and the waters are calmer, making it an excellent place for families to spend a day on the sand, while its west-facing orientation also makes it an ideal location for watching the sunset. Meanwhile, to the northeast of town is Bikini Beach, another popular surf spot with lively evening parties, while Montoya Beach offers relaxation and serenity away from the sun-seeking crowds. Whatever you’re looking for in a beach, you’re sure to find it on the shores of Punta del Este.
02
Tour a tour of the Peninsula’s colorful landmarks
Though the city is best known for its enormous La Mano de Punta del Este sculpture, it’s far from the only attraction visitors will want to see. In fact, Punta del Este’s Peninsula to the south has no shortage of landmarks, so it’s worth taking your own self-guided tour of the local sights.
Of course, many travelers start with a trip to the renowned La Mano artwork, with its striking visual design and central location that’s right by the beach. From there, it’s only 15 minutes on foot past the stores and cafes of Avenida Juan Gorlero to reach Plaza General Artigas. This vibrant public square hosts performances and features local handicrafts for sale. After a stop for a coffee, it’s only a short walk to Puerto de Punta del Este. This picturesque harbor front is a great place to stroll and spot the sea lions, with freshly caught seafood available for sale at the dock-level stores.
Head south to reach Our Lady of the Candelaria. This gorgeous sky-blue church was constructed in 1948 and is a great place to take in the “old” Punta del Este. The atmosphere inside is serene and quiet, so be respectful to the local population and keep noise levels to a minimum during your visit. Just across the street is the Plaza del Faro, a popular photo spot that’s home to the Punta del Este Lighthouse. This 19th-century structure is a great place to learn about the area’s seafaring past while taking in the magnificent views of the surrounding shores.
As the oldest part of the city, this is an enchanting and highly walkable area to explore. It’s worth taking a look at hotels in the Peninsula so you can surround yourself with its historic charms.
03
Sip fresh cocktails and dance the night away
Punta del Este has plenty to offer those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s important to note that locals tend to go out later here than in some other parts of the world, so do some sightseeing and enjoy a leisurely dinner before you start your night-time adventures.
The port is an excellent place to spend your first evening in the city, as you can savor the delicious local seafood at one of the exquisite dockside restaurants, then sip a waterfront cocktail while taking in the scenic sunset views. If that’s not enough, you can then head to one of the port’s lively nightclubs to dance until the small hours. It’s an especially great scene for fun-loving couples.
Another fantastic nightlife destination is Avenida Juan Gorlero. As one of the main avenues through Punta del Este, it’s home to all manner of stores, eateries, and attractions, from theaters to galleries, cafes, and ice cream parlors. However, it’s after sunset that this beloved destination truly comes into its own. The street glows with the lights of bars, lounges, and casinos, so you have your pick of options when it comes to how you want to spend your night. Find a place to stay near Avenida Juan Gorlero, and you’ll be right at the heart of the action.
There are also plenty of dazzling nightspots to the north, particularly on the narrow strip of land between the Mansa and Brava beaches. This is where you’ll find some of the city’s most popular clubs, along with all kinds of bars and restaurants. Finally, many of Punta del Este’s hotels have their own on-site nightspots, so you can stop for a nightcap after your evening on the town.
04
Have an adventure on the water
The city is absolutely surrounded by the ocean, so it should come as no surprise that these sparkling waters offer all kinds of Punta del Este activities for more athletic travelers. Several of the city’s beaches are popular surfing hotspots, particularly along the shores of Brava, Bikini, and Montoya, with all the necessary surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing equipment available for rent. Be aware that the sea itself is on the cooler side, so you’ll want to wear a wetsuit at most times of the year.
Meanwhile, visitors to Playa Mansa can rent jet skis and water skis, or even take an exhilarating banana boat ride and speed across the ocean. Should you want to discover the world beneath the water’s surface, there are also opportunities for snorkeling. The calm waters here are great for beginners, while the currents are rich in nutrients, making for thriving marine habitats among the rugged reefs. Dives are best taken during the warmer months and are a great way to encounter the area’s fish, rays, and even octopuses. To learn more about the region’s ocean life, be sure to visit the Museum of the Sea, which can be found north of Punta del Este in La Barra.
If you’re after a gentler time on the waves, you may want to try taking a boat trip. You can even sail to Isla de Lobos, a beautiful island off the coast of Punta del Este that comes with a 19th-century lighthouse alongside a large sea lion population. Then there’s Isla Gorriti, a natural heritage site where the sea teems with various whale species. You have the choice between chartering your own boat or taking a guided tour, and couples in particular will enjoy taking a romantic sunset cruise along the shore.
05
Sample the wines at a local vineyard
If you love a vintage while on your Punta del Este vacation, you’ll be delighted by the city’s sprawling vineyards. The climate in this part of Uruguay is ideal for grape harvests, with a large number of vineyards nestled among the rolling green hills that surround the city. One of the most popular is Alto de la Ballena to the north, where you can enjoy a hilltop wine tasting alongside a delicious cheese platter, with friendly guides to inform you about the local varieties. Specialties here include Merlot, Tannat, and Cabernet Franc.
Head a little further to the north toward the village of El Eden, and you’ll reach Vina Eden, a vineyard specializing in Tannat and Chardonnay that features both a restaurant and a terrace that overlooks the surrounding landscape. You can even add to the atmosphere of your excursion by stopping at San Carlos on your way back to the city. This historic town contains gleaming white churches and delightful boutiques where you can do a bit of shopping.
One of the region’s most renowned vineyards lies a little further afield, near the village of Garzon. Located an hour’s drive to the northeast of Punta del Este, the award-winning Bodega Garzon features cellar tours and even boasts an upscale restaurant, with dishes made from fresh seasonal ingredients that are also paired with the establishment’s exclusive wine selection. This is all just scratching the surface when it comes to the region’s vineyards, so check online to find your ideal wine tasting experience.
The memories to be made in Punta del Este
Punta del Este is a fantastic destination for all kinds of travelers with its thriving wildlife, colorful nightspots, and magnificent vineyards. Rather than simply being Uruguay’s answer to Monaco or the Hamptons, the city has its own vibrant spirit that encourages you to give each of its varied attractions a try. Take your partner for an evening in town, plunge into the glittering seas, or go for a family stroll around the Peninsula. No matter what you wind up doing, you’re sure to remember your trip to Uruguay’s idyllic southern shore, so book your flights to Punta del Este and experience “the Pearl of Uruguay” for yourself.
