From this Uruguay road map it appears that all roads lead to Montevideo, the capital. However, during the summer months, Uruguayans and savvy tourists flock to the beaches. They have the option of river or ocean, since Uruguay enjoys a long coastline from the Atlantic border with Brazil, to the mouth of the Río de la Plata and upriver to the border with Argentina.
It always amuses me to know that the section closest to Montevideo along the river, which after all means the silver river, is called the Gold Coast. There are other coasts along the great river that attract visitors, but perhaps the most famous are the beaches of the Atlantic coasts, called the Uruguayan Riviera.
The area along the coast from Maldonado and east of Montevideo to the Brazilian border contains numerous tourist centers, including the city of Maldonado. Built in 1755 as a provisioning outpost, the city has grown as a resort complex as a less expensive alternative to the more famous complex: the small peninsula of Punta del Este, which boasts both a river and one side of the Atlantic.
Punta del Este is elegant. Expensive hotel complexes, real estate, and upscale restaurants attract those who can afford them, however there are a certain number of accommodations that cater to the budget-minded traveler.
On the river side, the Rambla Artigas beach stretches to the port of Punta del Este and then around and out of the peninsula to meet the Atlantic at Playa de los Ingleses, Playa el Emir and Playa Brava, where the water it’s wilder. See the wide white beach in this photo. Mansa means tame and this beach is ideal for families with young children.
Jumping on the beach is a tradition and people follow the action. Most of the beaches have small restaurants called paradores with beach service so you can have a picnic on the beach without the hassle of carrying food.
Piriápolis is a gem of a beach. The complex, named for its developer Francisco Piria, revolves around the promenade called Rambla de los Argentinos, named for the clientele that Mr. Piria serves. He built the Hotel Argentino and a house known as the Castillo de Piria or the Castillo de Piria , but drawing attention from any point is the city is the Cerro Pan de Azúcar. You can climb to the top of the third highest point in Uruguay if you can get away from the magnificent beach.
North from Punta del Este through Rocha to the Brazilian border, miles of sandy beaches, sand dunes, and grandiose landscapes attract beach lovers. In Rocha and La Paloma you will not find the super expensive resorts of Punta del Este, but you will find history, excellent beaches and a more relaxed style.
No matter which beach on the many coasts of Uruguay you choose, you will find hospitable people and a wonderful vacation. Check flights from your area. From this page, you can also search for hotels, rental cars, and special offers.
Good trip!