Most tours of Punta del Este include a visit to the port. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront and watch the boats sail in and out of port; visit the harborside fish market, where stalls are laden with fresh-from-the-ocean seafood; and spot sea lions lounging along the rocky shores. For those who want to explore further, boats set sail from here for Gorriti and Lobos islands, while a short walk away is the Punta del Este Lighthouse and the Our Lady of the Candelaria Church.
Punta del Este port is located at the southern tip of the town, about 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) west of Barra Beach. A number of buses from different areas of the city stop close to the harbour, but the easiest way to arrive, especially in the evening hours, is by taxi—it’s an about 10-minute drive from downtown.
The most atmospheric times to visit the port are at sunrise or sunset. Arrive early in the morning to visit the fish market and see the fishing boats coming back in with the morning’s catch. Alternatively, watch the sunset over dinner or cocktails at one of the portside restaurants, then end the evening with a stroll along the illuminated waterfront.
Punta del Este port is the starting point for boat cruises along the coast. Set sail for the car-free island of Gorriti Island, where you can swim and sunbathe on the sandy beaches, or tackle the round-island hiking trail. A little further afield, Lobos Island is known for its large colonies of southern sea lions and southern fur seals, while charter boats will take you along Punta del Este’s coast, with views of Brava Beach and Gorriti Island. Adventurous types can also enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving excursions.
