Best Costa de Oro Beach Excursions from Montevideo

The Costa de Oro spans over 65 kilometers of picturesque coastline. It is the primary holiday destination for locals living in the capital. These excursions are easy to manage by car or public bus. For more ideas on what to see in the region, check out these top attractions near Montevideo.

These spots are famous for their family-oriented atmosphere. Unlike the high-energy vibe of Punta del Este, these towns feel more traditional. You will find friendly markets and wide, accessible beaches. Here are ten specific destinations for your next seaside adventure.

• Quick picks: Best Overall: Atlántida
• Best for Families: Costa Azul
• Best for Nature: Guazuvirá
• Best for History: La Floresta

1. Name: Atlántida
   Type: Sight/Activity
   Why go: This is the capital of the Costa de Oro. It features historic architecture and the famous Eagle’s Nest. You can learn more in this guide to Atlántida.
   Best for: Families and culture lovers.
   Where: 45km east of Montevideo.
   Time: Half-day or full-day.
   Cost: Free beach access; $5-10 for museum entry.
   Getting there: Public bus from Tres Cruces.
   Tip: Visit the Christ the Worker Church, a UNESCO site nearby.
2. Name: El Águila (The Eagle)
   Type: Experience
   Why go: A mystical stone building shaped like an eagle's head. It sits on a cliff overlooking the ocean in Villa Argentina. It offers great photo opportunities.
   Best for: Viewpoints and photographers.
   Where: Villa Argentina, next to Atlántida.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Free outside; small fee for inside.
   Getting there: Walk 15 minutes from Atlántida center.
   Tip: Go at sunset for the best lighting on the stone.
3. Name: Salinas
   Type: Sight
   Why go: It is the closest major beach to Montevideo. It has a very wide sandy beach and calm river waters. It is perfect for a quick afternoon swim.
   Best for: A fast getaway.
   Where: Kilometer 38 of Ruta Interbalnearia.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Take any suburban bus toward east.
   Tip: The main avenue has great local bakeries for snacks.
4. Name: Parque del Plata
   Type: Nature
   Why go: This town sits where the Solís Chico stream meets the Rio de la Plata. You get both river and ocean experiences. It is very green with many pine trees.
   Best for: Kayaking and picnics.
   Where: Kilometer 49.
   Time: 4 hours.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Direct bus from Montevideo.
   Tip: Rent a boat to explore the stream's calm waters.
5. Name: La Floresta
   Type: Neighborhood/Experience
   Why go: One of the oldest resorts in the area. It maintains a classic 20th-century feel with grand old summer houses. It hosts a famous "White Night" arts festival.
   Best for: History and tranquility.
   Where: Kilometer 54.
   Time: Half-day.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Car via Ruta Interbalnearia.
   Tip: Walk the promenade to see the beautiful coastal gardens.
6. Name: Costa Azul
   Type: Sight
   Why go: Known for its great surfing conditions and family atmosphere. The beach is wide and the sand is very white. It is often less crowded than Atlántida.
   Best for: Surfers and families.
   Where: Between La Floresta and Bello Horizonte.
   Time: Full-day.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Intercity bus from the main terminal.
   Tip: Bring an umbrella as natural shade is limited.
7. Name: Cuchilla Alta
   Type: Viewpoint/Nature
   Why go: This town is built on a series of small cliffs. It offers some of the best elevated views of the coast. The "Chorro de Agua" is a fun local landmark.
   Best for: Stunning views.
   Where: Kilometer 72.
   Time: 3 hours.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Bus toward Maldonado.
   Tip: The rockier parts are great for tide-pool exploring.
8. Name: Guazuvirá Nuevo
   Type: Nature
   Why go: This is a very quiet, forested beach area. It feels wild and untouched compared to the resort towns. It is ideal for those seeking peace.
   Best for: Nature lovers and couples.
   Where: Kilometer 60.
   Time: Full-day.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Car is easiest; bus stops are remote.
   Tip: There are very few shops, so pack a cooler with lunch.
9. Name: Piriápolis
   Type: Experience
   Why go: While slightly east of the main Costa de Oro, it is a key coastal stop. It features a Mediterranean-style promenade and a chairlift. See the Piriápolis coastal attractions for details.
   Best for: Active travelers.
   Where: 98km from Montevideo.
   Time: Full-day.
   Cost: Chairlift costs about $8-10.
   Getting there: COT or COPSA buses from Tres Cruces.
   Tip: Take the chairlift up San Antonio hill for the best view.
10. Name: Pinamar
    Type: Activity
    Why go: A quiet residential beach with very fine sand. It is great for long walks along the water. The dunes here are quite high and beautiful.
    Best for: Quiet walking.
    Where: Next to Salinas.
    Time: 2 hours.
    Cost: Free.
    Getting there: Local suburban bus.
    Tip: It is a great spot for birdwatching in the early morning.

Planning Your Costa de Oro Beach Excursions

To make the most of your Costa de Oro beach excursions, you need the right transport. Public buses are affordable and frequent. You can depart from Terminal Tres Cruces in downtown Montevideo. Look for buses operated by COPSA or COT for the most comfort. These buses run along the main highway with many stops.

Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring small hidden beaches. The Ruta Interbalnearia connects all major towns. Traffic can be heavy on Sunday evenings when people return to the city. Try to visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience. Most beaches have free parking and easy access.

The best time to visit is between December and March. This is the Uruguayan summer when the weather is hot and sunny. During the off-season, many shops and restaurants in smaller towns may close. However, the beaches remain beautiful for long, crisp walks. Always bring sunscreen and plenty of water.

Combining Beaches with Other Nearby Tours

You can easily pair your beach day with other local experiences. Many of the best beaches are located in the Canelones wine region. You might consider wine tasting tours in Canelones after a morning swim. Many wineries are just 20 minutes inland from the coast. This makes for a diverse and exciting itinerary.

Nature enthusiasts might also enjoy the Santa Lucia wetlands boat tours. These are located on the western edge of the department. It provides a nice contrast to the open ocean scenery. You can see rare birds and unique river flora. Combining these spots creates a full picture of Uruguay's geography.

For those interested in historical sites, the inland towns offer hidden gems. You can find local heritage museums and artisanal markets. Many small producers sell honey and cheese along the roadsides. Be sure to check the Ministerio de Turismo website for seasonal event listings. Following official advice helps you find the newest local attractions.