Punta del Este

Punta del Este is a coastal resort city in Maldonado Department, southeastern Uruguay, sitting on a peninsula that offers two different shorelines. On one side lies Playa Mansa with calm water, and on the other Playa Brava with higher waves and stronger wind.

Spanish explorers reached this peninsula in the early 16th century and mapped the coast for future navigation. Francisco Aguilar officially founded the settlement in 1829, laying the groundwork for its later development as a resort.

The lighthouse on Isla de Lobos and the large hand sculptures along the coast have become symbols that visitors recognize immediately. Many restaurants serve fresh fish and seafood brought in each morning by local fishermen.

Regular bus services depart from Montevideo bus terminal and reach the city in about an hour and a half. The coastal highway offers an alternative for travelers with a private vehicle and runs along the Atlantic.

Isla de Lobos offshore holds one of the tallest lighthouses in South America along with a large colony of sea lions. Visitors can book boat trips to the island to observe the animals up close.

Location: Maldonado Department

Inception: 1829

Elevation above the sea: 11 m

Website: http://maldonado.uy/?mi=PuntadelEste#municipio

GPS coordinates: -34.95574,-54.93812

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:42