When you think about Argentina, the first images that might come to mind are tango dancers, steak, wine, and the Andes. But there’s a side to Argentina that is often overlooked – its stunning beaches. Yes, you heard it right. Argentina, the land of gauchos and mate, also boasts some fantastic coastlines that deserve a spot on your travel itinerary. The beaches in Argentina offer a diverse range of landscapes, from wild and rocky shores to sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller in search of something offbeat or a sun-lover looking for your next beach holiday destination, Argentina has something for you.
Table of Contents
- The Best Time of Year to Visit Argentina’s Beaches
- Top Beaches in Argentina: A Comprehensive List
- Buenos Aires’ Nearby Shores: Beaches in Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Where are the Beaches in Buenos Aires?
- Does Argentina Have Beaches? A Brief Overview
- Mar del Plata: The Pearl of the Argentine Coast
- Best Beach Resorts in Argentina: Luxury by the Sea
- Beach Activities: What to Do on Argentina’s Beaches
- How to Get to Argentina’s Beaches: Travel Tips and Information
- Carilo: The upscale beach resort town
- The Less Known: Mar Chiquita, Mar Azul and Miramar
- Conclusion: Why Argentina’s Beaches are a Must-Visit
Also Read: How to Get an Argentine Visa
The Argentine coastline is a treasure trove of picturesque beaches, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the South American continent. With over 4,000km of coastline, Argentina’s beaches offer an array of experiences, from the vibrant city beaches of Buenos Aires to the tranquil, secluded beaches further south. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the best beaches in Argentina.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Argentina’s Beaches
So, what time of year would you visit the beaches of Argentina? Argentina, being in the Southern Hemisphere, experiences its summer from December to February. This period is the best time to visit Argentina’s beaches when the weather is warm, and the beaches are bustling with activity. However, if you prefer a more serene and tranquil experience, March to May and September to November can also be an excellent time to visit. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the beaches are less crowded.
Remember, the climate in Argentina varies greatly from north to south. While the northern beaches can be enjoyed year-round due to their tropical climate, the beaches in the south have a colder climate and are best visited in the summer months.
Top Beaches in Argentina: A Comprehensive List
Let’s dive into the heart of the matter – the best beaches in Argentina. These beaches offer a mix of experiences, from city beaches buzzing with activity to secluded shores that provide a tranquil escape.
1. Mar del Plata: Known as the Miami of Argentina, Mar del Plata is the most popular beach destination in the country. With its wide sandy beaches, bustling promenade, and vibrant nightlife, it’s a must-visit for beach lovers.
2. Pinamar: This is another popular beach destination, known for its wide sandy beaches and upscale resorts. Pinamar is the perfect place for those looking for a luxurious beach holiday.
3. Necochea: This beach town is a favourite among locals, thanks to its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Buenos Aires’ Nearby Shores: Beaches in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vibrant capital, is not typically associated with beaches. However, the city does have a few nearby shores that offer a perfect getaway from the urban hustle. Here are some of the best beaches in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
1. Mar del Plata: Just a few hours away from Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata is the most popular beach destination among Porteños (residents of Buenos Aires). With its broad sandy beaches, vibrant city life, and numerous attractions, it’s a perfect weekend getaway.
2. Carilo: Known for its upscale resorts and beautiful pine forests, Carilo is another popular beach destination among Porteños. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a tranquil beach holiday without straying too far from the city.
3. Villa Gesell: This beach town is a favourite among families, thanks to its calm waters and numerous family-friendly activities. It’s another great beach getaway option close to Buenos Aires.
Where are the Beaches in Buenos Aires?
When you look at a map and find Buenos Aires, you’ll see that it is located right next to the water, and that usually causes two misconceptions: One, seasfood must be consumed regularly, which you can read more about the typical Argentine diet here; and two, there must be a beach in Buenos Aires.
For the latter, the disappointment is totally understandable when you can see the water right there, but no beach. The water, in fact, is the Río de La Plata. Some cities on Uruguay coastline also share the same river, like Colonia and Montevideo. Even though they have some ‘beach-like’ shores, they are not considered as real beaches. So where can you go if you want to lay down on a real sandy beach and soak in the oceanic water? Since we got this question all the time from our students, we have decided to create a simple map showing all the recommended beaches easily accessible from Buenos Aires. (See Below)
Before you head off to one of these places, remember that the weather is significantly cooler in the south, even though they are only a few hours away. That is why many Argentines, especially those from Buenos Aires and the north, vacation there during the hottest summer months (January and February). If you want to avoid the high prices and huge crowds, March is still a good and warm month to go to any of the beach locations. The downside is that you may find not all the businesses or services are available in the off season.
Does Argentina Have Beaches? A Brief Overview
The question “does Argentina have beaches?” might seem strange, but it’s a query that many travellers have. The answer is a resounding yes. Argentina has a wide range of beaches, from the bustling city beaches of Buenos Aires to the tranquil shores of Patagonia. With over 4,000km of coastline, Argentina offers a beach for every taste.
Here is the Beaches Near Buenos Aires map (Click image to enlarge):
Mar del Plata: The Pearl of the Argentine Coast
Mar del Plata, fondly known as the Pearl of the Argentine Coast, is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Argentina. Just a 5-hour drive from Buenos Aires, it’s a favourite among locals and tourists alike. With its wide sandy beaches, bustling promenade, thriving nightlife, and beautiful architecture, Mar del Plata offers a beach experience like no other.
Mar del Plata’s beaches are divided into two main sections: the popular southern beaches, bustling with activities and people, and the tranquil northern beaches, perfect for those seeking some peace and quiet. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, with its theatre shows, concerts, and festivals, adds to the charm of this beach destination. So, whether you’re a beach bum, a culture vulture, or a party animal, Mar del Plata has something for you.
Funny Tip: How to Pick up Girls in Mar Del Plata:
Best Beach Resorts in Argentina: Luxury by the Sea
If you’re looking for a luxurious beach holiday, Argentina has got you covered. The country’s coastline is dotted with upscale resorts that offer a perfect blend of comfort and luxury. Here are some of the best beach resorts in Argentina.
1. Aldea de Mar Resort, Mar de las Pampas: Known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Aldea de Mar Resort is the perfect place for a relaxing beach holiday. With its comfortable accommodations, excellent service, and direct beach access, it’s one of the top beach resorts in Argentina.
Also read about: How Much Do You Know About Buenos Aires: An Incredible Destination to Learn Spanish
2. Playas Hotel, Mar del Plata: Located in the heart of Mar del Plata, Playas Hotel offers a luxurious beach holiday with all the amenities you could wish for. With its stunning ocean views, excellent service, and proximity to the city’s attractions, it’s a top choice among luxury travellers.
3. Howard Johnson Hotel & Convention Center Madariaga – Carilo: This upscale resort in Carilo offers a luxurious beach holiday with its comfortable accommodations, excellent service, and a wide range of amenities including a spa, a golf course, and a convention center.
Beach Activities: What to Do on Argentina’s Beaches
Argentina’s beaches aren’t just for sunbathing – there’s a wide range of activities you can enjoy on these shores. From surfing and kayaking to beach volleyball and horse riding, there’s something for everyone. Many beaches also offer boat tours, where you can explore the coastline and maybe even spot some marine life. For the more adventurous, there’s also the option of sandboarding in the dunes.
When you’re done with the day’s activities, you can relax in one of the many beach bars and restaurants, enjoying the local cuisine while watching the sunset over the Atlantic. With all these options, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests on Argentina’s beaches.
How to Get to Argentina’s Beaches: Travel Tips and Information
Getting to Argentina’s beaches is relatively easy, thanks to the country’s well-developed transport network. Most beach towns are well-connected by bus and train services from major cities. For more remote beaches, you might need to rent a car or take a taxi.
If you’re travelling from abroad, you’ll likely fly into Buenos Aires. From there, you can take a domestic flight to many beach destinations, or you can choose to travel by bus or train, which is usually cheaper. It’s also worth noting that Argentina is a large country, and travel times can be long, so plan your trip accordingly.
Carilo: The upscale beach resort town
Carilo is one of Argentina’s most upscale beach towns. Known for its beautiful pine forests and luxurious resorts, it’s a favourite among Argentina’s elite. Despite its upscale reputation, Carilo manages to maintain a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a peaceful beach holiday. With its beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, and numerous activities, Carilo is definitely a must-visit on any Argentina beach itinerary.
The Less Known: Mar Chiquita, Mar Azul and Miramar
While Argentina has many popular beach destinations, there are also some lesser-known beaches that are worth visiting. Mar Chiquita, Mar Azul, and Miramar are some of these hidden gems. These beaches offer a more serene and authentic experience, away from the crowds of the more popular destinations. These are the places where you can truly unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Argentina’s coastline.
Conclusion: Why Argentina’s Beaches are a Must-Visit
Argentina’s beaches are a must-visit for any beach lover. With their diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and numerous activities, they offer a unique beach experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a sun worshipper, a water sports enthusiast, or a nature lover, Argentina’s beaches have something for you.
So next time you’re planning a beach holiday, why not consider Argentina? You won’t be disappointed. And while you’re there, why not learn Spanish too? At Vamos Academy, we offer in-person and live online Spanish lessons. So you can learn Spanish in Argentina or study Spanish in Malaga. Start your language journey with us today.
