Punta del Este

Uruguay's glamorous flagship resort city, a peninsula lined with high-rise towers, marinas and celebrated beaches. Visit for its vibrant nightlife, upscale dining, and the iconic La Mano sculpture rising from the sand at Playa Brava.

Things to do

• La Mano (Los Dedos) — Snap a photo at the famous giant hand sculpture emerging from the sand on Playa Brava.
• Casapueblo — Explore artist Carlos Páez Vilaró's whitewashed cliffside villa and gallery, best at sunset over Punta Ballena.
• Playa Brava and Playa Mansa — Choose between the wild ocean surf of Brava or the calm river-side waters of Mansa on opposite sides of the peninsula.
• Puerto de Punta del Este — Stroll the marina to admire luxury yachts and watch sea lions gather near the fishing docks.
• Isla de Lobos boat trip — Take a boat excursion to one of South America's largest sea lion colonies offshore.
• José Ignacio day trip — Drive east to the bohemian-chic village with its lighthouse, upscale beach clubs and celebrity haunts.
• Gorlero Avenue — Wander the main commercial strip for shopping, cafés and the buzz of the peninsula's nightlife.

Food to try

• Chivito — Uruguay's iconic steak sandwich piled with ham, cheese, egg, bacon and salad, a must-try local classic.
• Asado — Slow-grilled beef and sausages cooked over wood coals, the centerpiece of Uruguayan dining culture.
• Fresh seafood — Sample brótola, corvina and grilled fish at portside restaurants and beach clubs by the marina.
• Dulce de leche desserts — Indulge in this caramelized milk spread found in alfajores, pastries and ice cream everywhere.
• Medio y medio — A refreshing local blend of white wine and sparkling wine, popular as an aperitif.

Local customs & good to know

• Bring mate everywhere — Locals carry a thermos and gourd of mate tea constantly, and you'll see it on every beach and bench.
• Peak season is January — The city is glamorous but crowded and expensive in summer, especially late December through February.
• Dine late — Uruguayans eat dinner around 9 or 10 pm and nightlife doesn't get going until well after midnight.
• Cash and cards — Uruguay is fairly cashless but keep some pesos handy, and note US dollars are accepted in upscale spots.

Nearby

• Isla de Lobos — 9 km
• La Barra — 11 km
• José Ignacio — 32 km
• Piriápolis (Canelones & Eastern Río de la Plata) — 32 km