Gorriti Island, Protected island near Punta del Este, Uruguay
Gorriti Island is a protected island near Punta del Este, on the southern coast of Uruguay, with rocky shores and native vegetation covering most of its surface. A network of paths connects different parts of the island, passing by the ruins of colonial military structures and stretches of shore used by seabirds.
In the 18th century, the Spanish built military forts on the island to control the surrounding waters against Portuguese expansion. The island changed hands several times over the following decades as European powers competed for control of this stretch of sea.
The island is known for its abandoned colonial fortifications, including old cannons that can be seen at several points along the grounds. Visitors can walk directly beside these remains, giving a rare close look at military architecture from that era.
Boats depart from Punta del Este harbor and bring visitors to the island, mainly during the tourist season. Setting out in the morning tends to give calmer water conditions and enough time to walk the paths without rushing.
During certain seasons, southern right whales, elephant seals, and orcas pass through the waters around the island on their migrations. This makes it one of the few spots on the Uruguayan coast where several species of sea mammals can be spotted from shore.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
