The Top Things to See and Do in José Ignacio, Uruguay

The city’s main landmark is the photo-perfect José Ignacio Lighthouse, placed to warn maritime travelers of the rocky outcrop just below. A number of the small coastal towns in Uruguay have similar lighthouses like this one, which you can enter and climb the spiral stairs inside to get a great panoramic view of the coast and the petite town from the circular balcony.

The attraction of coastal towns is their relaxing feel, attributed in large part to the sensation one gets from a day at the beach. Head down the sloping roads towards the water’s edge and to the east of the lighthouse, and you will meet a tight cove and long, bending beach littered with people enjoying some time in the sun. After all, that’s why you’re here.

If you want to get your blood pumping a little, and see somewhere new, you can jump on one of the buses heading west towards Punta del Este, or even the capital of Montevideo, and jump out in the chill surf town of La Barra. Just 10 minutes outside Punta del Este, you will instantly notice the surf vibe, with surf shops where you can buy and rent boards to head out into the swell and take your best shot at catching a few rolling waves.

The lagoon bearing the same name as the town also bears the same tranquility, and you can make a peaceful day of it by renting a bicycle or going on a horseback ride to the lagoon. Have a picnic, walk around the lagoon and swim your day away until you head back with the beautiful sunset in your sights.

Most people agree it’s the best restaurant in town, especially if you’re looking for fresh seafood. You can be seated on their patio, almost within arm’s reach of where your meal comes from. Enormous, grilled octopus tentacles, fish of the day spiced and grilled on the open flame and traditional, hearty plates like steak and fries or milanesa – it’s all here, and it’s all tasty.

There’s so much to see – from an exhibition building to an auditorium, an open-air stage, a space for art classes and a collection of work by Atchugarry, the abstract sculptor. The art-filled site is a delightful space. Don’t miss the artist’s workshop and the sprawling Sculpture Park, where local and international artists’ work is dotted around the greenery.

Welcome to the place to see and be seen among the dunes of Playa Mansa. On the western side of José Ignacio, La Susana Beach Bar and Restaurant woos guests with its killer combo: a dreamy beach location and specialty cocktails such as Clericó, a wine-based punch served by the jug. Sit in the shade of a bamboo pergola or recline on a comfy sofa while the micro-bikini-clad crowd poses up a storm.

You’ll have no trouble finding a gift at this sweet homeware and gift shop. Everything’s on sale, from books and jewelry to candles, fabrics and furniture from all over the world. In a great spot on Calle Los Cisne, in José Ignacio’s shopping district, it’s not far from the beach, so pop in and pick up a beach read if you’ve left yours at home. And once you’re all shopped out, grab a coffee in the cafe and admire your wares.

Where better to practice your yoga flow and meditation than at this beachside multidisciplinary wellness retreat, housed in one of the country’s hippest boutique retreats, Bahia Vik? Check in for a night and you’ll get to choose between art-filled suites and standalone bungalows with floor-to-ceiling windows. All are set among the dunes close to Playa Mansa, and you’ll be able to practice daily Vinyasa yoga in a serene wellness space, styled with the natural hues of rattan and honey-wooden floorboards.

This sustainably designed world of wine was the first sustainable, LEED-certified winery outside North America. It’s surrounded by scenic terraces in Maldonado, close to Punta del Este on the east coast. There’s a vineyard tour and now a luxurious members-only Garzón Club with glassy facades – great additions to the 120-seat restaurant overlooking the surrounding countryside, hills and vineyards. Come for picnics among the vineyards, hot-air balloon rides and lashings of Reserve Albariño, fragrant with aromas of white peach, citrus fruit and jasmine.