With its glitzy seafront casino, quirky 1930s architecture, and more than a dozen sandy beaches, Mar del Plata fancies itself as Argentina’s version of the French Riviera—it even hosts its own international film festival. Known to locals as La Feliz or the Happy One, sunseekers will find plenty of things to do in Mar del Plata. Take a surf class, try paragliding or jet skiing, rent a cabaña by the beach, or visit the lively fishing port, where the city’s resident sea lions lounge on the rocks.
As Mar del Plata is Argentina’s flagship beach resort, it feels like the entire population of Buenos Aires makes a beeline south for this coastal city in the summer months. Don’t underestimate the crowds in peak season (Jan–Feb)—if you don’t arrive early or book into one of the beach clubs, you might struggle to find a patch of sand for your beach towel. The sunny weather typically lasts from November through mid-April, while it’s quiet the rest of the year and many tourist establishments close.
While most hotels and resorts are within walking distance of at least one beach, Mar del Plata is too big to explore on foot unless you’re sticking to one district. Pick up a SUBE card (available online or from bus terminals) to use the local buses, which connect all corners of the city. Alternatively, taxis ply the streets—just make sure your driver puts the meter on—or you can rent a bike and cycle the long seafront promenades.
As Mar del Plata is a fishing port, you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving delicious seafood. The restaurant at Torreón del Monje has arguably the best views in the city, while Cantábrico, Sarasanegro, and La Marina are all renowned for their seafood dishes. Pass on the dessert because you’ll want to pick up some local specialties such as churros from Manolo (the classic flavor is dulce de leche), Havanna’s alfajores (a sweet shortbread cookie and dulce de leche sandwich), or Lucciano’s gelato.
