Things to Do in Valizas, Uruguay

Valizas is a charming coastal village located in Uruguay's Rocha Department, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and pristine lagoons. This bohemian beach town has evolved from a simple fishing village into a laid-back destination beloved by surfers, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic Uruguayan coastal experience. With its rustic charm, unpaved streets, and relaxed atmosphere, Valizas offers a refreshing alternative to the more developed beach resorts along Uruguay's coast. The village is renowned for its spectacular natural setting, featuring expansive sand dunes, pristine beaches, and the serene Laguna de Castillos nearby. Valizas maintains its hippie-chic vibe with colorful wooden houses, organic restaurants, and a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism. The area serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Cabo Polonio National Park and offers some of the best surfing conditions in Uruguay, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Top Things to Do in Valizas

Surfing at Valizas Beach

Valizas offers some of Uruguay's most consistent surf breaks, with waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. The beach faces the Atlantic Ocean directly, providing excellent swells year-round, particularly during autumn and winter months. Several local surf schools offer lessons and board rentals.

Booking Tip: Surf lessons cost around $25-35 USD per session, with board rentals at $15-20 per day. Book lessons in advance during peak season (December-February). Look for instructors certified by the Uruguayan Surf Federation.

Sand Dune Exploration

The massive sand dunes surrounding Valizas create a desert-like landscape that's perfect for hiking and sandboarding. These shifting dunes are part of the coastal ecosystem and offer spectacular views of both the ocean and inland lagoons. Sunset walks on the dunes are particularly magical.

Booking Tip: Sandboard rentals cost $10-15 per day from local shops. Best visited during early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. No advance booking needed, but bring sun protection and plenty of water.

Cabo Polonio Day Trip

Visit the nearby rustic village of Cabo Polonio, accessible only by 4WD vehicles through sand dunes. This off-grid community features a historic lighthouse, sea lion colonies, and pristine beaches. The journey itself is an adventure, traversing protected dunes and coastal landscapes.

Booking Tip: Transportation costs $15-20 USD round trip. Tours run multiple times daily but can fill up in summer. Book the day before during peak season. Look for operators with newer 4WD vehicles for comfort.

Laguna de Castillos Kayaking

Explore the pristine Laguna de Castillos, a freshwater lagoon system located just inland from Valizas. The calm waters are perfect for kayaking and offer excellent birdwatching opportunities, including flamingos, herons, and other waterfowl. The lagoon is surrounded by native vegetation and provides a peaceful contrast to the ocean activities.

Booking Tip: Kayak rentals cost $20-30 for half-day trips. Best conditions are in the morning when winds are calmer. Some operators offer guided tours for $40-50 including equipment. Book ahead during weekends and holidays.

Horseback Riding on the Beach

Experience the coastline from a different perspective with horseback rides along Valizas beach and through the surrounding dunes. Local operators offer rides suitable for all skill levels, from gentle beach walks to more adventurous dune expeditions. The combination of ocean views and rolling dunes creates an unforgettable experience.

Booking Tip: Beach rides cost $30-45 for 1-2 hours. Morning rides offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos. Book 1-2 days in advance, especially in summer. Choose operators that provide helmets and have well-cared-for horses.

Getting There

Valizas is located about 300 kilometers east of Montevideo and is best reached by car or bus. From Montevideo, take Route 9 east through Punta del Este, then Route 15 north to Route 10 east. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours by car. Several bus companies, including COT and Rutas del Sol, operate daily services from Montevideo to Castillos or Aguas Dulces, from where you can take a local connection to Valizas. The nearest airport is in Punta del Este, about 2.5 hours away by car.

Getting Around

Valizas is a small village that can easily be explored on foot, with most accommodations, restaurants, and the beach within walking distance of each other. The streets are mostly unpaved sand roads that add to the village's rustic charm. Bicycles are a popular way to get around and can be rented from several local shops for about $10-15 per day. For trips to nearby attractions like Cabo Polonio or Laguna de Castillos, local tour operators provide transportation, or you can rent a car in larger nearby towns like Castillos.

Where to Stay

Village Center

Beachfront Area

Dunes Edge

Lagoon Side

Camping Zones

Aguas Dulces Nearby

Food & Dining

Valizas offers a surprisingly diverse dining scene for such a small village, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, organic ingredients, and vegetarian options that reflect its bohemian character. Many restaurants feature locally caught fish, particularly corvina and pescadilla, often grilled simply with herbs. The village has several cozy cafes serving excellent coffee and homemade pastries, perfect for breakfast or afternoon breaks. Most establishments are casual and reasonably priced, with many offering outdoor seating to enjoy the sea breeze. Don't miss trying the local specialty of tortas fritas (fried bread) and mate, Uruguay's traditional tea, often shared communally on the beach.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Valizas depends on your preferences and activities. Summer (December to March) offers the warmest weather and liveliest atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F), but this is also the busiest and most expensive time. For surfing, autumn and winter (April to September) provide the most consistent swells, though temperatures are cooler at 10-18°C (50-64°F). Spring (October to November) offers a good balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. The village maintains its charm year-round, but some restaurants and accommodations may close during the quietest winter months (June-August).

Insider Tips

Bring cash as many establishments don't accept cards and there are no ATMs in the village - the nearest is in Aguas Dulces or Castillos

Pack warm layers even in summer as coastal winds can make evenings chilly, and always bring sun protection as the combination of sand, water, and wind intensifies UV exposure

Respect the fragile dune ecosystem by staying on marked paths and not climbing on vegetation-stabilized areas - the dunes are constantly shifting and play a crucial role in coastal protection

Things to Do in Valizas