Playa Grande
Mar del Plata, Argentina
Mar del Plata's stylish southern beach — rocky headlands, reliable surf, and a calmer atmosphere than the central strip make it the favourite of local surfers and those in the know.
Mar del Plata, Argentina
Mar del Plata's stylish southern beach — rocky headlands, reliable surf, and a calmer atmosphere than the central strip make it the favourite of local surfers and those in the know.
Location
South Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires Province
Best For
Surfing, Quiet Atmosphere
Water Temp
17–21°C (Dec–Mar)
Crowds
Much quieter than Bristol Beach
Parking
Street parking, some paid areas
Facilities
Surf schools, balnearios, lifeguards
Playa Grande occupies the southern end of Mar del Plata's coastal strip, set against a backdrop of upmarket residential apartment blocks and the windswept Punta Iglesia headland. Significantly less crowded than central Bristol Beach, it's the preferred spot for Mar del Plata's locals and the city's surf community, who appreciate its more reliable Atlantic swell and the social scene around its surf schools and beachfront cafés.
The beach itself has coarser sand than Bristol and more exposed conditions — waves here regularly reach 1.5–2m on south swells, creating excellent conditions for intermediate surfers. The rocky breakwater at the northern end creates a calmer pocket ideal for paddleboarding and swimming when the open beach is choppy. Several surf schools offer lessons for all levels, and board hire is readily available.
In the Playa Grande district behind the beach, excellent restaurants and stylish coffee shops line the coastal avenue. The neighbourhood has a more residential, bohemian feel than the tourist-heavy centre — a great base for those who want to experience Mar del Plata like a local rather than a day-tripper. At sunset, Playa Grande's views of the Atlantic are the best in the city.
About 3 km south of Bristol Beach along Avenida Martínez de Hoz. Local city buses run frequently. Taxi from the centre takes 10 minutes. Some visitors walk or cycle the coastal path.
December to March for beach season. Surfing is best April–July when autumn swells increase. The Playa Grande neighbourhood is pleasant year-round for dining and exploring.
Surf schools at Playa Grande are well-run — book in advance in January. The balnearios here are less crowded and often better value than central beach clubs. Try the seafood restaurants on Avenida Constitución.