Experience Uruguay's laidback beach culture at La Paloma, a beach town on the east coast. This summer retreat draws European and South American travellers with its pristine beaches, free concerts and wildlife spotting opportunities.
La Paloma is first and foremost a beach location. Sunbathe, swim or surf along its picturesque shoreline. La Balconada and Bahía Chica beaches are within easy walking distance of the town centre. Head to La Balconada to swim in clean calm waters or take a kayaking adventure to the Isla de la Tuna from Bahía Chica.
Surfers will appreciate the waves of Botes and Anaconda beaches, which consistently reach up to 2 metres (6.5 feet). To the east, La Aguada offers yet another stretching shoreline. Its challenging swells are most frequented by advanced surfers. Rent surf gear from a number of beachside shops located along Avenida Solari. This main thoroughfare of La Paloma also hosts a number of surfing schools, ideal for beginners.
Continue along Avenida Solari and see an enormous skeleton of a southern right whale. Another hefty skeleton can be found at the Coastal Marine Interpretive Centre, which displays exhibits on whales and dolphins. From July through October, take a tour out to sea for the chance to witness packs of migrating whales as close as 200 metres (650) from the shore. Alternatively, spot them from the lighthouse or an observation deck at Costa Azul. The walk there takes 40 minutes from town.
Take a day to spot colourful birds fluttering at Laguna de Rocha, a protected lagoon habitat. Of the 200 bird species that live here, the rare black-necked swan is one of the most magnificent. Walk to the lagoon's southern tip along the beach in the afternoons and catch a stunning sunset.
Get to La Paloma by bus from Montevideo, Punta del Este or Chui in Brazil. The town's busiest months are January and February. Visit then to see free concerts on the beach and enjoy sunny drinks at beachside bars.
