Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Playa del Este begins where Monte Hermoso's dense summer crowds thin out, stretching along a four-kilometer curve of fine sand toward the marshy delta where Sauce Grande meets the sea. The beach here slopes gently into shallow water that stays wadeable for dozens of meters, making it a favorite among parents who let their children chase retreating waves without constant vigilance. In the morning, you'll find local joggers leaving tracks along the firm tidal sand, while afternoon brings families with folding chairs and mate thermoses, settling in for long, lazy sessions under rented umbrellas. The landscape shifts as you walk east—dunes rise higher, native grasses whisper in the offshore breeze, and the built horizon of hotels and parrillas fades behind you. Sandpipers work the wrack line in methodical sweeps, and if you time your visit for the shoulder months of November or March, you'll have entire stretches to yourself, the water still warm enough for swimming but the Argentine summer rush weeks away. By late afternoon, the slanting light turns the sand rose-gold and the shallow water becomes a mirror reflecting mackerel clouds. Couples stroll toward the river mouth, where the meeting of fresh and salt water creates shifting sandbars that remake themselves with each tide. You taste salt on your lips, feel sand between your toes, and understand why Monte Hermoso locals guard this eastern edge as their own.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Playa del Este Monte Hermoso.
Photos
Playa del Este offers generally safe swimming conditions with lifeguard services during summer season. The sandy beach has gentle slopes suitable for families with children, though Atlantic waves can be moderate depending on weather conditions. Being less crowded than central Monte Hermoso, families enjoy more space while still accessing nearby amenities. Standard beach safety applies: swim between flags, watch for currents, and supervise children. The open Atlantic setting means conditions vary with weather, so check daily forecasts and observe local warnings before entering the water.
The ideal time to visit is during Argentina's summer (December-February) for warmest weather and full beach services, though this eastern stretch remains less crowded than central Monte Hermoso. Shoulder seasons (November and March) offer pleasant weather with fewer visitors, perfect for those seeking tranquility. Weekdays see lighter crowds than weekends year-round. Early mornings provide beautiful light for scenic walks along this stretch. While summer offers peak swimming conditions, the less-crowded nature of this area means even high season remains relatively peaceful compared to the main resort zone.
Playa del Este is located along the eastern extension of Monte Hermoso's beachfront, easily reached by walking, cycling, or driving from the town center. The beach is accessible via the coastal road (Avenida Costanera) heading east toward Sauce Grande. Many visitors walk or bike along the scenic beachfront path, typically 15-30 minutes from central Monte Hermoso depending on starting point. Taxis and rental cars are available for those preferring motorized transport. Public beach access points with parking are marked along the route, making it straightforward to reach this quieter stretch.
Playa del Este is primarily a residential beach area with fewer commercial establishments than Monte Hermoso's center, so most visitors base themselves in the main town nearby. Central Monte Hermoso offers hotels, cabañas, hostels, and vacation rentals within easy reach of the eastern beaches. Dining options concentrate in the town center, featuring seafood restaurants, parrillas, and casual cafés. Some beach kiosks operate during summer season along this stretch. The proximity to Monte Hermoso center (walking or short drive) means visitors enjoy the quieter beach while accessing the town's full range of services and dining.
Playa del Este's defining characteristic is its significantly lower crowd levels compared to Monte Hermoso's bustling central beach area, while maintaining the same quality sand and Atlantic scenery. This eastern stretch attracts visitors seeking tranquility and more natural surroundings without sacrificing accessibility. The area transitions toward Sauce Grande, offering a more residential and less commercial atmosphere. Beachgoers here enjoy wider open spaces for sunbathing, scenic walks with fewer umbrellas and structures, and a more relaxed pace. It represents the perfect compromise between Monte Hermoso's amenities and a quieter beach experience.
