Punta del Este is a stunning Uruguayan peninsula, renowned for its heavenly beaches, exotic sophistication, beautiful people and a vibrant nightlife. With its short distances, the best way to explore the city is by walking or renting a bicycle. Alternatively, you can reach Punta del Este by bus from the coastal resorts of Canelones and Rocha, as well as from Colonia del Sacramento, Minas, Durazno and Salto. The Capitán Corbeta International Airport is located in Punta del Este and the city of Maldonado, to the north. The surrounding villages of Punta del Este are steeped in all the mystique of the city.
La Barra, to the east, is a famous club area and Punta Ballena, to the west, is home to a small beach on the eastern side (Atlantic Ocean) of the peninsula with good waves that make it popular with surfers. There are a few bars and nightclubs in Punta del Este; however, there are many more in La Barra. Punta del Este is one of the most glamorous resorts in South America and easily the most expensive place in Uruguay. The beautiful sunsets in the port of Punta del Este, La Barra or José Ignacio are other places not far (by car) from Punta del Este itself. Staying on the Punta del Este Peninsula is probably the best option if you don't have a car since buses are few and taxis are expensive. As a popular tourist resort, food in Punta del Este can be expensive.
If you're going on a day trip from Montevideo, consider bringing your own lunch. The most popular tourist spots include La Barra, Punta Ballena, Casa Pueblo, Pan de Azúcar or the island where you can swim with sea lions.
