Punta del Este: Day Tour with Casapueblo, Beaches & Sculpture

Summary

From Casapueblo’s white walls to the Hand sculpture and seaside walks

You’ll feel Punta del Este through its art-filled Casapueblo terraces, playful sea lions at the port, and iconic Hand sculpture rising from the sand. Taste local pastries during your lunch break on Gorlero Avenue and end up with sandy feet at Playa Mansa. This small group day trip lets you soak up sights and moments at your own pace — it’s more than just ticking boxes.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember: the sun bouncing off those white, uneven walls at Casapueblo — honestly felt like we’d landed in some dreamy Mediterranean spot, except the Atlantic wind was sharper here. Our guide, Martín, had this way of pausing just long enough for us to really look before he started talking about Carlos Páez Vilaró (I still can’t pronounce it right). The view over the water was all silver streaks and blue haze; I could smell salt and something sweet from someone’s thermos of mate nearby. Didn’t expect to feel so quiet there.

We stopped by the port next. There were a few sea lions flopped on the rocks — not always there, Martín warned us, but today they were barking at each other like grumpy old men. The private day trip around Punta del Este kept moving but never rushed; even when we got to La Mano, that big hand sticking out of the sand (everyone takes photos, you kind of have to), it didn’t feel like a checklist. Some little kid tried to climb a finger and his dad just laughed instead of stopping him. I liked that.

Lunch break was free time along Gorlero Avenue — I wandered into a bakery for something flaky and warm (no idea what it was called) and watched people drift by in sunglasses or beach towels. The air smelled like sunscreen mixed with pastry. Later, at Playa Mansa, my feet sank into cool sand while Martín pointed out how river beaches here meet ocean ones — I hadn’t realized you could stand with one foot in each kind of water if you wanted. It’s a small thing but it stuck with me for some reason.

By the time we reached the Ralli Museum and that wavy bridge (which actually made my stomach flip when we crossed), I felt like I’d seen a dozen different moods of Punta del Este in just a few hours. It’s not one big moment but these bits strung together — salt air, odd sculptures, locals waving from their bikes — that make me want to come back someday.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day tour of Punta del Este

• Visit Casapueblo museum
• See five star hotel and casino
• Observe sea lions at the port
• View Hand of Punta del Este sculpture
• Visit the historic lighthouse
• Explore oceanic beaches
• Relax at Mansa river beach
• Walk on the wavy bridge
• Visit Punta del Este Ralli Museum
• Free time for lunch and walk

Top questions

How long is the Punta del Este day tour?

The tour lasts a full day with stops at major attractions including Casapueblo and Playa Mansa.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No, lunch is not included but you’ll have free time on Gorlero Avenue to eat where you like.

Are there sea lions at Punta del Este port?

Sometimes! Sea lions are often seen at the port but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Does this day trip include entry fees?

The tour includes an experienced guide; entry fees are not specifically mentioned in the details provided.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome and infant seats are available.

What languages do guides speak on this tour?

The reference mentions professional guides; language specifics aren’t listed but Spanish is common locally.

Do I need to be very fit for this Punta del Este tour?

No special fitness level is required; it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes travel between Punta del Este highlights with an experienced local guide leading small groups. You’ll have free time for lunch along Gorlero Avenue and stops at places like Casapueblo museum, Playa Mansa beach, La Mano sculpture, Ralli Museum of modern art, plus chances to spot sea lions at the port before returning in comfort.