Audio Guide of Coastal National Park

The park is open 24 hours a day year-round, but it is recommended to visit at sunrise or sunset to avoid the intense heat. You can drive there via Route 10 from José Ignacio, with parking available at the main entrance; if you are using public transportation, take a bus from Punta del Este to La Barra and walk or rent a bike. For more details, check the official website of Uruguay's Ministry of Environment at gub.uy/ministerio-ambiente.

Entry to the park is free for all visitors, as it is a nationally protected area. However, if you decide to camp or use facilities such as toilets or showers, there is a symbolic fee of around 200 Uruguayan pesos per person. Check for updates on the official website or call +598 4455 3101 for the latest information.

It is recommended to spend at least 2 to 3 hours exploring the main coastal trails and beaches, but if you want to go hiking or birdwatching, you could easily spend a full day. A guided tour lasts around 4 hours and covers the main highlights without rushing.

Created in 2015 to protect Uruguay's coastal biodiversity, the park preserves unique ecosystems such as dunes, lagoons, and migratory bird habitats, with cultural significance for the Charrúa Indigenous communities that once lived in the area. It is a key site for environmental conservation in the Rocha region, promoting ecological education and sustainable ecotourism.

The best time is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Go early in the morning to enjoy the cool breeze and see active wildlife, avoiding summer afternoons, which can be very hot.

Part of the park has paved trails and ramps in the main beach and viewpoint areas, making wheelchair access easier. However, the dune areas and hiking routes are more challenging; it is recommended to contact the visitor center for guides or adapted equipment loans. For more info, visit gub.uy/ministerio-turismo.

Nearby, you can visit José Ignacio Beach, famous for its lighthouse and surfing, or the town of La Barra with its artisan markets. About 20 km away is Santa Teresa Park with its historic Portuguese fort, ideal to combine into a day of coastal exploration.

Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as there are no shops inside the park; wear comfortable shoes for the sandy trails. Respect environmental rules by not leaving trash behind and keeping your distance from wildlife; download the park map from the Ministry of Environment app for better orientation.