Planning a Family Beach Trip to Punta del Este

Uruguay is very safe for international visitors. Punta del Este is particularly welcoming for families. Most beach areas offer clean sand and lifeguard services during summer. You should understand the difference between Playa Mansa and Playa Brava before booking. Mansa means calm, while Brava means fierce. Families usually prefer the Mansa side where the water is like a lake.

The peak season runs from late December through January. During this time, the city is very busy. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in February or early March. The water remains warm and the crowds thin out. Local infrastructure is excellent, with many cafes and restrooms near the popular sand stretches.

Public transport is available, but renting a car is easier with kids. Most beaches offer free access. You can find more details on the Ministerio de Turismo website. This helps with planning specific regional events or safety stays.

Quick Picks: Family Favorites

Short on time? Here are our top recommendations for your family itinerary:

• Best for Toddlers: Playa Solanas (very shallow water).
• Best for Photos: Playa Brava (The Hand sculpture).
• Best for Nature: Isla Gorriti (boat trip adventure).
• Best Free Activity: Watching sea lions at the Port.

10 Best Family Friendly Beaches in Punta del Este

Here are the top locations to enjoy the sun and sea with your children in 2026.

1. Name: Playa Mansa (Parada 1-4)
   Type: sight
   Why go: It is the most central beach with very calm water. It is perfect for swimming lessons and social vibes.
   Best for: Families with small children who want to be near downtown amenities.
   Where: Central Punta del Este
   Time: 3-5 hours
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Walk from the main terminal or downtown hotels.
   Tip: Visit the nearby port to see sea lions after your swim.
2. Name: Playa Solanas (Portezuelo)
   Type: sight
   Why go: The water is extremely shallow for a long distance. It is known as the safest beach in the region.
   Best for: Parents with toddlers and babies.
   Where: Portezuelo area, west of the city.
   Time: Half-day
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: 15-minute drive from the city center.
   Tip: This is a great spot to see Casapueblo at sunset.
3. Name: Playa Las Delicias
   Type: sight
   Why go: A quiet, local favorite with soft sand and gentle slopes. It lacks the heavy crowds of the central parada.
   Best for: A peaceful afternoon of building sandcastles.
   Where: Parada 24 of Playa Mansa.
   Time: 2-4 hours
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Short bus ride or drive along the coastal road.
   Tip: Bring your own snacks as there are fewer vendors here.
4. Name: Playa Honda (Isla Gorriti)
   Type: experience
   Why go: Accessible only by boat, it feels like a true island adventure. The bay is sheltered and very clear.
   Best for: Older children who enjoy boat rides and exploring pine forests.
   Where: Gorriti Island, offshore from the port.
   Time: 4-6 hours
   Cost: Budget for the ferry ticket.
   Getting there: Take a ferry from the Punta del Este Port.
   Tip: There are no shops on the island, so pack a full picnic.
5. Name: Playa Piedras del Chileno
   Type: sight
   Why go: This beach is famous for whale watching in the off-season. In summer, it is a quiet spot for evening walks.
   Best for: Families who enjoy bird watching and calm sunsets.
   Where: Route 10, between the city and Portezuelo.
   Time: 1-2 hours
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Best reached by private car or rental.
   Tip: Look for the wooden deck for the best sunset views.
6. Name: Playa La Mansa (José Ignacio)
   Type: day trip
   Why go: A chic yet relaxed atmosphere in a famous fishing village. The bay side is much calmer than the Atlantic side.
   Best for: A luxurious day out with high-end dining options.
   Where: José Ignacio, 30 minutes east.
   Time: Full-day
   Cost: Free (dining is expensive).
   Getting there: Follow our José Ignacio day trip guide for transport tips.
   Tip: Climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the coast.
7. Name: Laguna del Sauce
   Type: nature
   Why go: It is a massive freshwater lake with sandy shorelines. It is a great break from the salty ocean water.
   Best for: Kayaking and safe freshwater swimming.
   Where: Adjacent to the airport.
   Time: 3-4 hours
   Cost: Free entry at public access points.
   Getting there: Driving is necessary; follow signs for the Aeropuerto.
   Tip: Check for local wind conditions as the lake can get choppy.
8. Name: Playa de Piriápolis
   Type: day trip
   Why go: A historic resort town with a beautiful promenade. For more options, see the best beaches in Punta del Este region.
   Best for: Families looking for a nostalgic, European-style beach vibe.
   Where: Piriápolis, 40 minutes west.
   Time: Full-day
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Regular buses run from the main Punta del Este terminal.
   Tip: Take the chairlift to Cerro San Antonio for great photos.
9. Name: Playa de los Ingleses
   Type: sight
   Why go: A small, rocky beach tucked away behind the Peninsula. It has lovely rock pools to explore at low tide.
   Best for: Kids who love looking for crabs and small fish.
   Where: The tip of the Peninsula.
   Time: 1-2 hours
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Easy walk from the lighthouse or town square.
   Tip: Swimming is not recommended here due to rocks; stick to the pools.
10. Name: Playa Brava (Parada 1 - Los Dedos)
    Type: sight
    Why go: Home to the iconic "Hand in the Sand" sculpture. The sand is wide and great for running.
    Best for: Iconic photos and playing tag on the sand.
    Where: Entrance to the Peninsula (Brava side).
    Time: 1 hour
    Cost: Free
    Getting there: Landmark location, easy to walk to from downtown.
    Tip: The waves are strong here, so keep children away from the water.

Essential Tips for Uruguay Beach Days

The sun in Uruguay is very strong. You must apply high-SPF sunscreen every two hours. Most families use beach tents or umbrellas for shade. You can rent these at the busier paradas for a daily fee. Always look for the green flag for safe swimming.

Parking is usually managed by local attendants called 'trapitos'. It is customary to give them a small tip when you leave. A few pesos are sufficient for their help. This keeps your car safe and supports the local community.

Dining in Punta del Este starts late. Most restaurants do not open for dinner until 8:00 PM. Many families have a late 'merienda' or afternoon snack. This helps kids stay happy until the late dinner hour. You can find more planning advice on Lonely Planet.