URUGUAY
LA BARRA - URUGUAY
URUGUAY BEACHES
La Barra is an Uruguayan beach city located in the department of Maldonado, bathed by the Atlantic Ocean a few miles away from Punta del Este. This place was once a fishing village, today has become an important tourism center that provides a wide range of services. Until the middle of last century it was a small fishing village set along the Maldonado creek, at that time the inhabitants of the nearby town of San Carlos began to build their summer houses there.
Its seascape, its beautiful beaches, the colors of the houses, the famous wavy bridge, the permanent movement of tourists going from antique shops to art galleries, plus restaurants with different styles and clubs have turned La Barra into a source of irresistible attraction for those seeking something special.
WHERE TO STAY AND WHAT TO DO - HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES
From three-star oceanfront hostels and campings to large spa resorts, some with casinos, you can certainly find the one that best suits your needs.
One of the incredible views is provided by the undulating bridge with a very original architecture and beautiful houses erected on its banks. This wavy bridge is unique in the world and it was built by Uruguayan engineer Leonel Viera in 1965. This bridge connects La Barra and Punta del Este as it is on the estuary formed by the creek where it joins the ocean. Currently, another identical bridge was built on its side due to the increasing traffic.
Its beaches offer great peace, they are family oriented beaches, small when compared to those that continue to the east. They have snow-white sand, clear and serene waters that invite you to enjoy splendid swims and then lie on the sand in cozy breaks.
The busiest beaches are the ones on Manantiales town: Bikini is a wonderful beach, always active with events, music and gymnastics in the evening, and for that reason has gained the title of one of the most actives beaches in Uruguay. The other most important beach is the Playa de Montoya, which is broad, with coarse sand and where the sea has big waves.
On the water you can practice many sports like windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, surfing, jet skis, you can even take classes to learn the sport that interests you.
Large stretches of the coast invite visitors to walk outdoors, fishing, horseback riding, polo, etc. The stream is also ideal for water sports and fishing.
La Barra has an active nightlife, a few discos, bars, restaurants and many pubs have become the center for lively youngsters. It is one of the favorite places for youth and the nightlife activities often last until dawn.
You can also enjoy the culinary spectrum since it has its own commercial center, with a number of restaurants that offer an infinite variety of worldwide a la carte specialties.
HOW AND WHEN TO GO - WEATHER AND TRANSPORTATION
In terms of access, there are flights to the Carrasco International Airport in the Uruguayan capital, Montevideo, from all continents. From there in less than an hour on the excellent Interbalnearia Route you will get to LA BARRA, whether going on the buses departing from the airport as by car. There are tolls on the way, so if you're travelling in a rental car, bring local currency.
The ideal time to go is from late November to March because the average temperature is 28 degrees.
2. Jose Ignacio
3. La Paloma
4. Piriapolis
5. La Barra
6. Punta del Diablo
7. La Pedrera
8. Cabo Polonio
9. Atlantida
