Skip Florida, explore South America’s cultural gem with stunning beaches and delicious food
A Coastal Escape with Less Crowds and More Charm
When it comes to classic coastal getaways, many people imagine the palm-lined boulevards and bustling boardwalks of Florida. However, this popularity often means larger crowds and higher prices, especially during school breaks and holidays. For a breathtaking alternative that’s still relatively lesser-known, consider heading south to Mar del Plata, Argentina.
Located roughly 250 miles south of Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, Mar del Plata is a five-hour drive away. This South American city has long been a top destination for Argentine society. Originally an exclusive retreat inspired by the French Riviera in the late 19th century, it has evolved into a modern, dynamic city with nearly 650,000 residents. As tourism became more accessible, Mar del Plata transformed into one of Argentina’s leading seaside destinations, attracting over 8 million visitors each year. The city is also well connected to Buenos Aires via plane, car, train, and bus.
A City of Beauty and History
Mar del Plata’s charm lies in its 29-mile coastline, which features broad sandy bays, lively boardwalks, and majestic cliffs. Along the shoreline are two iconic Neoclassic structures built in the 1940s: the Casino Central, one of the largest gambling venues in Latin America, and the Gran Hotel Provincial, a luxurious five-star hotel.
Beaches for Every Preference
The city boasts a variety of beaches that cater to different tastes. Playa Bristol, located directly in front of the downtown area, is easily accessible from hotels, cafes, and the pedestrian center. It is known for being the noisiest and most crowded, as well as one of the dirtiest according to some TripAdvisor users. Don’t forget to take a photo with the sea lions monument, a pair of stone sculptures created by a local artist in the early 1940s.
Playa Varese is about a 20-minute walk south of Bristol and is situated in a breakwater-protected bay, making swimming easier and more predictable. Though smaller than the main beach, it offers plenty of amenities, including beach chair and umbrella rentals, cafes, restaurants, changing facilities, and convenience shops.
Cultural Highlights
Mar del Plata is also known for its vibrant summer cultural calendar. The Centro Provincial de Las Artes Teatro Auditorium is one of Argentina’s most prominent theater venues outside Buenos Aires. The Mar del Plata International Film Festival is the only film festival in Latin America that ranks alongside Cannes, Berlin, and Venice. It typically takes place in November.
A Culinary Journey
Fresh fish is the star of Mar del Plata’s food scene, which includes both modern bistros and traditional “parrillas” (restaurants specializing in charcoal-grilled meat and fresh seafood). Start your culinary journey in the port area with Restaurante La Marina, where you can enjoy dishes like seafood stew and fried squid with garlic and black pepper.
Not far from the port is Chichilo, another long-running restaurant where you can sample different seafood preparations, from fish empanadas to paella. With over 42,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating on Google Maps, Manolo is one of the city’s most notable Argentinian restaurants. The menu features a wide range of options, including the “lomito completo,” a sandwich made with churrasco steak, ham, bacon, cheese, a fried egg, and french fries. The dessert selection also highlights dulce de leche, a beloved Argentine ingredient.
For a more modern and refined dining experience, visit Sarasanegro Restaurante. Included as a discovery selection on The World’s 50 Best, this restaurant reimagines the city’s maritime ingredients through a five-course tasting menu and à la carte options.
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