The 12 Best Things To Do in Punta Del Este, Uruguay

Learn pirate history at the Sea Museum

Courtesy of Museo del Mar

 

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. Divided into four halls, each contains a different focus: marine animals, sea snails, pirates, and the history of beaches in Uruguay and the surrounding countries. Whale skeletons, coral, shark jaws, seahorses, and many different kinds of colorful shells are displayed throughout, along with an onsite aquarium and kid-friendly activities. Open year-round, it’s located in the nearby surf town of La Barra.

ADDRESS
Romildo Risso, 20001 La Barra Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay
PHONE +598 4277 1817

Go surfing

ElOjoTorpe / Getty Images

 

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. Escuela de Surf Dedos, next to Parada 1 on Playa Brava is one of the easiest to access in summer months, while Shaka’s Windsurfing School in La Barra offers year-round activities and even group water sport trips.