Punta del Este
Nearly deserted in winter, the population of Punta del Este explodes with on its beaches during the day, and in the clubs and restaurants at night. Droves of sun worshippers and revelers from Montevideo, Argentina, (just across the Rio de la Plata) mingle with trendy international travelers who flock to the beaches, casinos, restaurants and night spots. They arrive by land, air and yacht to the the "Monaco of South America".
The two coastlines of the Uruguayan peninsula provide a calm placid side, and windy side with the well known surf spots (called "brava"). Popular beaches include: "La playa de los Dedos" (The finger beach"), which has a giant hand emerging from the sand, Bikini Beach, famous as a gathering place for trendy "beautiful people", and Paloma located about 90 miles up the peninsula has the best waves in the country, and is a mecca for die hard surfers. The endless beaches, beautiful seaside mansions, tree-lined streets, chic boutiques, stylish people makes this Uruguay's most popular destination during the summer months.
Other attractions include the surreal resort-museum Casa-Pueblo, created by Uruguayan artist Paez-Vilaró , the Candelaria Church, several interesting museums, a zoo, botanical garden, and Isla de los Lobos, the largest seal colony in the southern hemisphere.
Accommodations include luxury spas and unique boutique properties. If you are in Uruguay during the summer months Punta del Este is a fantastic place to spend some time, and a great way to experience a truly South American vacation destination.