Punta del Este Sights: Art, Bridges, Coast
The best sights around Punta del Este are a mix of art, odd architecture and sea. Several are free, and none needs a guide.
Casapueblo
Casapueblo at Punta Ballena, about 13 km west of the peninsula, is the area’s best-known building. It is open every day of the year from 10:00 until sunset. Admission is UYU 600, or UYU 500 for residents and visitors over 65, and children under 12 are free. The sunset ceremony runs every evening, and the site advises arriving at least 40 minutes early. See the Casapueblo site .
La Mano (Los Dedos)
On Playa Brava at Parada 1, five giant fingers rise from the sand. The sculpture was made in 1982 by the Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal for an international outdoor sculpture meeting. It is also called Los Dedos. It is free and always accessible. It stands beside the surf, so keep out of the water here unless a lifeguard zone is marked.
MACA
The Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art stands on Ruta 104 at km 4.5 in Manantiales. It opened on 8 January 2022, and the architect was Carlos Ott. Entry is free. It is open Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 to 18:00, and closed Tuesdays and on 1 May. Hours are on the MACA visits page .
Museo Ralli
Museo Ralli in Los Arrayanes, Beverly Hills, shows Latin American art and some European works. Entry is free. It is open Tuesday to Sunday 17:00 to 21:00 in January and February, and Tuesday to Sunday 14:00 to 18:00 in March, December and Easter. In April, May, October and November it opens on Saturday and Sunday only, 14:00 to 18:00. It is closed on 25 December and 1 January. See the Museo Ralli page .
Two bridges
The La Barra bridge (Puente Leonel Viera, 1963 to 1965) crosses the Arroyo Maldonado between the peninsula and La Barra, in a wavy ribbon shape. The Laguna Garzón bridge, by the architect Rafael Viñoly, opened on 22 December 2015 on Ruta 10 at km 190.5. It is circular, links Maldonado and Rocha, and is built to slow traffic.
The harbour
Wild sea lions are often seen near the fish-cleaning area at the port, with sightings changing by season. Watch from a distance and never feed them.
Timing
Peak season is roughly December to February. Museums and venues cut their days in the cooler months, so check hours before you travel.
Read more: Walking tours and Day trips . Compare guided options on GetYourGuide .