Long weekend coming up: these getaways near Buenos Aires are a hit

San Cayetano Beach is one of those hidden spots that’s on the verge of being discovered but still retains its tranquility. It has very few inhabitants and vast beaches, perfect for a few days of peace. The town is small, so it doesn’t have pharmacies or gas stations but does have walking trails and a salt lagoon. There are also three hotels, three campsites, two cafes, two ice cream parlors, and two restaurants.

Located about 70 kilometers from the town of San Cayetano, you can pick up essentials there before settling in for a relaxing weekend.

Highlight: Over 28 kilometers of beaches surrounded by dunes and sand hills.

Where: Take RP 72 from Buenos Aires to the entrance to the town, followed by 22 kilometers of dirt road. In total, it’s about 510 kilometers.

This destination is ideal for families, with beaches along the Uruguay River to enjoy the warm days, plus recreational activities like island boat trips, visits to El Palmar National Park, or simply relaxing in one of its thermal resorts.

Another reason to choose Colón is that it offers options for all budgets. Playa Norte combines wide sandy stretches with calm waters, kayaking, volleyball, and canoeing—perfect for a summer weekend getaway.

Highlight: San Francisco Island, about two kilometers south of town, has some of the best beaches with warm, shallow waters. Accessible by catamaran or kayak.

Where: Head towards Zárate, cross the Zárate Brazo Largo bridge, and take RN 14. It’s about 324 kilometers.

Melincué is home to one of the largest wetlands in the province, and its lagoon is famous for its pink flamingos and mineral-rich waters. Covering around 120 square kilometers, it offers everything from kitesurfing and windsurfing to therapeutic baths and boating. The lagoon has several islands that can be explored by kayak or boat, with remnants of a once-submerged, abandoned hotel.

Tip: Each year, Melincué hosts a national kitesurfing event that draws thousands of sports enthusiasts.

Where: Take RN 8 from Buenos Aires to Hughes, then follow RP 93 to Melincué. It’s about 337 kilometers.

This beach town, nestled within a national park, is one of Uruguay's most visited despite having no electricity or running water. Many surfers flock to Cabo Polonio, and it’s a great spot for whale watching. Located in Rocha, it’s close to other beach destinations like La Paloma and La Pedrera, accessible by a tourist bus that covers the area.

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Highlight: One of the clearest skies on the continent, perfect for stargazing and viewing the Milky Way.

Where: From Buenos Aires, take RN 12 and cross the General San Martín International Bridge. Continue on Route 12, then Route 10 to La Puerta de Polonio. Cars must be parked here, and a 4x4 vehicle will take you to the town.

If you’re not a fan of cold water, Reta is the weekend escape for you. This quiet beach town enjoys slightly warmer waters than neighboring areas, thanks to a current from Brazil. Beyond the beach, Reta has attractions like the mouth of the Quequén Salado River, a popular fishing and sunset-watching spot, and the Reta Lagoon (albufera), a protected natural area.

Highlight: Nearby beaches worth visiting include Orense and Claromecó.

Where: About 380 kilometers from Buenos Aires and 89 kilometers from Tres Arroyos. Take RP 29, then RP 72.

With beaches along the Uruguay River, Concordia also has lakeside spots at Salto Grande and options like wineries, historical sites, and rural tourism. Spend mornings soaking up the sun, then visit highlights like Estancia La Angélica (the region’s first dairy), Siandra Brothers Winery (featuring tannat), or San Carlos Park, where the famous French writer and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupéry stayed.

Highlight: Concordia has several thermal resorts for those seeking a relaxing getaway.

Where: Follow the route to Zárate, cross the Zárate Brazo Largo bridge, and take RN 14. It’s about 428 kilometers.

Carmelo, often called the “José Ignacio” of Colonia, features golf courses, boutique hotels, and wineries. A weekend trip can include Narbona, one of the country’s oldest vineyards. The local varietal is tannat, and most wineries offer lodging as well.

Tip: The historic center offers attractions like the Las Vacas Stream Waterfront, the rotating bridge, the Port of Carmelo, and Plaza Artigas.

Where: You can drive, but taking a ferry from Buenos Aires is recommended. It’s about 414 kilometers in total.

Rosario is one of the closest cities to Buenos Aires with something for everyone: nature, culture, food, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the city through different routes: the Domes Tour, Modern Rosario, or routes focused on local icons like Lionel Messi and Fito Páez. In summer, enjoy Delta del Paraná beaches and local eateries.

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Highlight: Several nearby islands offer beach services and are reachable by boat for a perfect day trip.

Where: About 300 kilometers from Buenos Aires via RN 9.

San Miguel del Monte is the ideal mix of nature, gastronomy, and culture. Its lagoon spans over 600 hectares and provides beautiful sunset views. The town has a historic center to explore and restaurants serving traditional country dishes. Outdoor options include kayaking, hiking, and biking. The lagoon loop trail stretches around 10 kilometers.

Tip: Accommodation options range from cabins and apartments to hotels. Check this link for the full list.

Where: About 112 kilometers from Buenos Aires via the Ezeiza - Cañuelas highway and then RN 3.

Cambacuá Island started as a sandbank and has become an ideal summer beach spot. Located along the Paraná River, it spans 5 kilometers and is directly opposite Concepción del Uruguay, accessible by a 10-minute boat or catamaran ride.

It serves as an ecological reserve, preserving local plant and animal species. Beach services include bathrooms, a grocery store, umbrellas, grills, and chairs. Concepción del Uruguay offers hotels, restaurants, and all essentials for a complete stay.

Tip: Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and fishing in its calm waters.

Where: From Buenos Aires, head towards Zárate, cross the Zárate Brazo Largo bridge, and continue on RN 12 and RN 14 to Concepción. It’s about 295 kilometers.