Punta del Diablo

A rustic former fishing village that has become a favorite backpacker and surfer destination on the wild northern coast. Visit for its colorful boats, dramatic surf beaches, and relaxed, unpretentious vibe near Santa Teresa park.

Things to do

• Watch the fishing boats at Playa de los Pescadores — Colorful wooden boats line the main fishing beach where local fishermen still haul in their daily catch.
• Surf at Playa del Rivero — This exposed beach offers consistent waves popular with both beginners and experienced surfers.
• Explore Santa Teresa National Park — Just north of town, this park combines pine forests, wide beaches, and a historic colonial-era fortress.
• Visit Fortaleza de Santa Teresa — An 18th-century stone fortress begun by the Portuguese and completed by the Spanish, with sweeping coastal views.
• Relax on Playa Grande — A long, wild stretch of sand ideal for walks, sunbathing, and quieter surf sessions.
• Sunset at Playa de la Viuda — A scenic beach south of the village known for dramatic evening light and fewer crowds.
• Browse the artisan craft stalls — Local vendors sell handmade jewelry, leather goods, and wood carvings along the main village streets.

Food to try

• Fresh grilled fish and seafood — Order the catch of the day such as brótola or corvina, straight from the boats at beachside restaurants.
• Chivito — Uruguay's iconic steak sandwich piled with ham, cheese, egg, and vegetables is a filling local staple.
• Asado — Wood-fire grilled meats are central to Uruguayan cuisine and found at parrillas around town.
• Empanadas — Baked or fried pastry pockets filled with meat, cheese, or seafood make an easy beach snack.
• Mate — Share the traditional herbal tea passed around in a gourd, a daily ritual you'll see everywhere.
• Dulce de leche desserts — This rich caramel-like spread flavors everything from pancakes to alfajores cookies.

Local customs & good to know

• Bring cash — ATMs are scarce and can run out, so carry enough Uruguayan pesos for your stay.
• Embrace the slow pace — The village is deliberately rustic and unpretentious, with many businesses opening only in summer season.
• Visit in summer for full services — Peak season runs December through February; outside these months many restaurants and rentals close.
• Respect the natural setting — Dirt roads, limited infrastructure, and protected dunes mean visitors should tread lightly and pack out trash.

Nearby

• Fortaleza de Santa Teresa (Eastern Wetlands & Border) — 8 km
• Santa Teresa National Park — 8 km
• Laguna Negra (Eastern Wetlands & Border) — 22 km
• Aguas Dulces — 27 km