Information
Landmark: Playa Punta BallenaCity: Maldonado
Country: Uruguay
Continent: South America
Playa Punta Ballena, Maldonado, Uruguay, South America
Overview
Playa Punta Ballena, just outside Punta del Este in Uruguay, is a quiet stretch of sand where the waves lap gently against the shore.With golden sand warm under your feet, water so clear you can see each ripple, and sunsets that set the horizon ablaze, this beach gives you a quiet escape from Punta del Este’s crowded shores.Playa Punta Ballena’s first highlight: a stretch of golden sand that glows in the late afternoon sun.Framed by rolling hills and weathered cliffs, the beach opens to sweeping ocean views where the water flashes silver in the sun.Golden sand meets turquoise water, forming a scene you can’t help but linger over.It’s the kind of place where you sink into a chair, camera in hand, and let the day drift by.People love it for the sunsets, when the sun slips into the Atlantic and the water glows gold, drawing evening crowds to watch.Number two.The waters at Playa Punta Ballena are usually gentler than those at nearby beaches, so it’s perfect for swimming or just wading in up to your knees while the waves lap softly against your legs.Families with kids flock to this beach for its calm, lapping waves and the shallow water where little feet can splash safely.Three.Kayaking and paddleboarding draw plenty of people here, thanks to the calm, glassy water and the rugged coastline dotted with pine trees.The cliffs around Punta Ballena offer great spots to hike and explore, with narrow trails winding past sharp rock edges and sea spray on your face.Visitors love strolling along the beach, where the shoreline stretches out toward hidden coves and quiet spots with sweeping views.Number four.Just a short walk from the beach stands Casapueblo, the striking whitewashed museum and hotel crafted by Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró.Many visitors spend the afternoon at Playa Punta Ballena, then head to Casapueblo to watch the sun sink into the sea from its famous whitewashed terrace.Five.Playa Punta Ballena is just a quick 15‑minute drive from Punta del Este, an easy trip by car with the ocean often glinting beside the road.It’s quieter than Playa Brava or Playa Mansa, but you’ll still find the basics-parking out front and a couple of cafés just a short walk away.The beach feels calm and untouched, with just a few weathered snack shacks, making it perfect for anyone craving a quiet escape.Playa Punta Ballena is a peaceful, picture-perfect stretch of sand where gentle waves lap the shore and the horizon glows at sunset.With Casapueblo just minutes away, sunsets blazing gold over the water, and stunning natural scenery, it’s a spot you can’t skip when exploring the Punta del Este region.