Punta del Este is a highly sought-after destination among travelers in Uruguay, especially during the summer, for enjoying its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. So, if you like the idea of visiting this destination, check out what to do in Punta del Este with these tourist spots and essential information about each attraction.
The 13 Best things to do in Punta del Este, Uruguay
Take a look at this list of the best things to do in Punta del Este, complete with essential information about each attraction in the city.
1. Take photos at the La Mano sculpture on Playa Brava
La Mano (The Hand) Sculpture, also known as Los Dedos (The Fingers) and Hombre Emergiendo (Man Emerging), is one of the most famous monuments and a postcard of Uruguay. Created by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal in 1982, the sculpture consists of five fingers partially buried in the sand and is located at the beginning of Playa Brava (Brava Beach).
For those visiting the destination, taking a photo in front of the sculpture is almost a must. During peak season, the sculpture is very popular for photos at certain times, so be prepared to face a possible line at the monument.
Additionally, take advantage of your visit to enjoy and explore Playa Brava, which has many waves, bars, and restaurants popular with surfers and athletes. Exploring Playa Brava is also one of the best things to do in Punta del Este.
- Location: Stop 1 Brava, Punta del Este, Eduardo Victor Haedo Avenue, km 162.500, 20001 La Barra, Maldonado, Uruguay.
- Price: Free.
2. Watch the sunset at Casapueblo and enjoy Punta Ballena
Located in Maldonado, 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Punta del Este, Punta Ballena is a beautiful tourist spot to visit in Uruguay. On the peninsula, you will find Casapueblo, another attraction that must be on your list of the best things to do in Punta del Este. Additionally, this area boasts grand hotels, amazing restaurants, and beaches that make for a very special trip.
Casapueblo is a charming building with sea views that stands out for its grandeur and beauty. The place, with its irregular curves and predominantly white color, overlooks the sea, where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset. This attraction is an iconic image of Uruguay and receives thousands of tourists who visit its café, museum, and even stay there.
If you have time in your itinerary, make sure to spend at least a day in Punta Ballena, as the area has many interesting attractions besides Casapueblo.
- Location: 20003 Punta Ballena, Maldonado, Uruguay.
- Price: variable (the cost may vary depending on what you do).
3. Take a stroll around the port at sunset
When visiting Punta del Este, make sure to take a sunset stroll around the Puerto de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, especially if you’re staying in the Peninsula or nearby neighborhoods (check out where to stay in Punta del Este). Besides enjoying a beautiful sunset, you can also spot sea lions. There are many bars and restaurants in the area near the port. So, after your walk, choose a fascinating place to enjoy the rest of your day.
- Location: Rambla General José Artigas, Punta del Este, Uruguay.
- Price: Free.
4. Go to Playa Mansa
Punta del Este is the most luxurious resort in Uruguay and the favorite summer destination for the upper class. Besides visiting Playa Brava, make sure to check out Playa Mansa (Mansa Beach).
Playa Mansa is also one of the most popular beaches in Punta del Este, but unlike Playa Brava, it has calm waters and is bathed by the RÃo de la Plata. The beach is ideal for spending a day with family and enjoying a sunny day.
During the summer, the beaches are very crowded, with many parties and attractions. However, in the winter, they are quieter and have a bucolic atmosphere, completely different from the lively high-season vibe.
5. Visit the casino at Enjoy Punta del Este
If you want to visit a casino, Enjoy Punta del Este should be on your list of the best things to do in Punta del Este. It’s an incredible resort to stay at, featuring a spa, 2 pools, 2 tennis courts, and 7 restaurants. Additionally, the complex is the only Las Vegas-style casino located in South America.
To make the most of this attraction, we recommend staying at the hotel so you can enjoy all the experiences and services the resort offers. It’s worth noting that the Enjoy is one of the best hotels in Punta del Este.
- Location: Playa Mansa, Parada 4, Punta del Este, Uruguay.
- Price: variable (the cost may vary depending on what you do).
6. Bike tour through some neighborhoods of Punta del Este
To better explore the attractions and neighborhoods of Punta del Este, take a bike ride. This way, you can leisurely tour the Peninsula (the central neighborhood where most attractions are located), San Rafael (a neighborhood with tree-lined streets and beautiful houses), and other areas of the destination.
In addition to doing this tour on your own by renting a bike, you can also book a bike tour in Punta del Este with a travel agency. By choosing the latter option, you’ll get to see the Paseo de las Américas, the Plaza de Gran Bretaña, the Punta del Este Lighthouse, and the beaches of El Emir, Los Ingleses, and Punta Salina.
7. Explore La Barra and cross the wavy bridge
Located 12 kilometers (7 miles) from the center, La Barra, once a fishing village, is now a popular spot for tourists. The area boasts excellent beaches, such as the lively Bikini and Montoya beaches, which are perfect for water sports.
On Ruta 10, Avenida Eduardo VÃctor Haedo, you’ll find bars, restaurants, shops, and galleries. However, the main attraction is the Leonel Viera Bridge, the wavy bridge that is one of Uruguay’s most important works. Crossing the bridge and seeing its structure up close is a must.
In La Barra, also visit the Museo del Mar, which showcases a collection of objects found on the sea floor.
8. Set sail for Isla Gorriti or Isla de Lobos
Among the best things to do in Punta del Este are trips to Isla Gorriti (Gorriti Island) or Isla de Lobos (Island of Wolves). Both excursions are incredible and will allow you to explore the Uruguayan coast and all its beauty.
Isla Gorriti, a treasure recognized as a National Historic Site, enhances the view from Playa Mansa. This island captivates visitors with its two popular beaches: Puerto JardÃn and Honda.
Meanwhile, Isla de Lobos is home to an impressive population of over 200,000 sea lions, making it the most significant reserve in the Southern Hemisphere. Its landscape features the majestic island lighthouse, one of the tallest in the world, standing at 59 meters high.
9. Travel to José Ignacio
If exploring picturesque villages appeals to you, be sure to add a visit to José Ignacio to your list of the best things to do in Punta del Este. Located just 30 kilometers (48.2 miles) from the center of Punta del Este, this charming fishing village on the Atlantic coast offers a variety of attractions, including the José Ignacio Lighthouse and the stunning José Ignacio and Garzón lagoons.
10. Visit the naturist beach
For those looking for a different experience in Punta del Este, be sure to visit the Chihuahua region, located 22 kilometers (13 miles) from the center of Punta del Este. The main tourist attraction in the area is Playa de Chihuahua (Chihuahua Beach), a naturist beach with fine sand stretching over 2 kilometers (1.2 miles).
Playa de Chihuahua has good infrastructure, including restaurants and bars, ready to welcome naturist bathers. Additionally, the Chihuahua region offers restaurants, accommodations, shops, and basic services.
11. Relax at Laguna del Sauce
Located 22 kilometers (13 miles) from the center of Punta del Este, Laguna del Sauce is one of the largest freshwater reserves in Uruguay and offers opportunities for water sports. Surrounded by extensive vegetation, this attraction is one of the best things to do in Punta del Este, especially if you enjoy nature.
Laguna del Sauce also has a small area for swimming and relaxing, but be cautious, as some zones are prohibited for swimming. Around the lagoon, you can visit Cerro Escondido, Cerro de la Gloria, Aconcagua, Las Cumbres, and Cerro de los Zorros to enjoy a beautiful view of the region.
12. Taste Uruguayan cuisine in Punta del Este
An excellent culinary experience should be on your list of the best things to do in Punta del Este. The destination offers various areas with a range of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy the best local cuisine.
On the vibrant Avenida Gorlero and the picturesque Calle 27, you’ll find a variety of establishments to explore. Meanwhile, a stroll through La Barra will present you with excellent restaurant and bar options to savor.
Food tours also stand out as an exceptional choice to appreciate Uruguayan cuisine. Many agencies offer these tours, highlighting visits to wineries where you can enjoy a delicious lunch among the vineyards.
13. Day Trip to Piriápolis
Piriápolis is a charming destination with beautiful beaches, located 45 kilometers (72.4 miles) from Punta del Este. In the city, you can explore the calm waters of the beaches, hike the scenic trails in the surrounding hills, or visit the iconic Cerro San Antonio, which offers a stunning view of the region.
To explore the destination, you can opt to rent a car in Uruguay and travel independently, or book a private tour to Piriápolis. If you decide to go on your own, it’s recommended that you consider spending at least one night in the area to make the most of the experience.
Extra Tips: What to do in Punta del Este, Uruguay
- Visit Iglesia Candelaria (Candelaria Church): This blue-toned church harks back to earlier times and is a charming spot to explore.
- Bike along the Rambla General José Artigas: The Rambla runs along the peninsula of Punta del Este, from the calm Playa Mansa to the iconic La Mano sculpture.
- Admire the sculptures at Parque Pablo Atchugarry: The talented Uruguayan sculptor Pablo Atchugarry has created a wonderful open-air park located between Punta del Este and José Ignacio.
Did you enjoy our tips on the best things to do in Punta del Este? Then, check out the best hotels in Colonia del Sacramento.
