Punta del Este is Hailed as the Monaco of South America

Puerto de Punta del Este, Uruguay. Photo by Rafael Kellermann Streit on Unsplash

Punta del Este isn’t one of Uruguay’s biggest or most populated cities, but that doesn’t stop it from being a major tourist attraction. This charming resort town has been hailed as “the Monaco of the South” and it’s one of the country’s most lavish destinations.

Punta del Este owes its enormous popularity to its beautiful beaches, classy hotels, and close proximity to some of Uruguay’s most popular tourist attractions. Uruguay is relatively small when compared to other South American countries, so it’s pretty easy to reach this resort town, especially if you’re traveling from Montevideo.

The city’s most recognizable landmark is La Mano de Punta del Este, a giant hand sculpture located at the Brava Beach. This is just one of many beautiful beaches in this resort town, and Mansa Beach and El Emir Beach are equally beloved.

In order to experience Punta del Este in its full glory, you’ll have to embark on a short road trip outside the city. Gorriti Island is a popular day-trip destination, and most tourists try to check out the abstract building complex Casapueblo in Punta Ballena, just 13 kilometers from Punta del Este.