Tours and Attractions in Punta del Este
Punta del Este has a short list of organised outings rather than a long menu of guided tours. Most of what draws visitors can be seen on your own, and the handful of true tours are on the water or at a winery. This page sets out each option so you can decide what is worth booking.
Boat tours
Boats go to Isla de Lobos, about 8 km southeast of the peninsula, to see a colony of sea lions and fur seals. The island is a protected area and visitors may not land, so every trip is a watch-from-the-boat outing. Keep your distance from the animals and never touch or feed them. Some operators offer a guided dive or swim with sea lions; book only with a licensed operator.
Boats to Isla Gorriti leave from the port and take about 15 minutes. Gorriti is the easy half-day option, with beaches and old cannons on the island. Prices and sailing times vary by operator and by season, so compare a few and confirm the departure point when you book.
Whale watching
Southern right whales can be seen from boat trips, roughly from winter to spring. Dates shift with the whales, so ask the operator what the recent sightings have been before you commit to a seat.
Bodega Garzón
The winery is in Garzón, about an hour’s drive from the peninsula, and is open for visits and tastings. Restaurant menus are UYU 3,900 for the Garzón menu and UYU 5,000 per person for the Fire menu. Book 24 hours ahead, with seatings from 12:30. Details are on the Bodega Garzón restaurant page .
Casapueblo
Casapueblo at Punta Ballena, about 13 km west of the peninsula, is a museum visit you can do alone. It is open every day from 10:00 until sunset. Admission is UYU 600, UYU 500 for residents and visitors over 65, and free for children under 12. Check the Casapueblo site for current details.
Free attractions to pair with a tour
Two art museums need no ticket. Museo Ralli in Beverly Hills is free, with hours that change by month. MACA in Manantiales is free and open Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 to 18:00. Both are easy add-ons to a day built around a tour.
Planning tips
Book early for December to February, and earliest for the first two weeks of January. Outside the peak, boats run less often and some venues close, so reserve ahead for any outing that matters to you.
Read more: Day trips and Sightseeing . Compare options on GetYourGuide .