Things To Do
in Salinas
Salinas is a laid-back coastal town along Uruguay's Atlantic shoreline, just a short drive from Montevideo. It offers wide sandy beaches, a walkable promenade, and a family-friendly vibe that makes it ideal for a relaxed beach getaway. In warm months the town comes alive with sun-seekers, seafood shacks, and casual beach cafés.
Off-season, Salinas quiets down but still exudes salt-air charm and easy access to nearby resort towns like Atlántida and La Floresta.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Salinas and settle into your accommodation, soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Take a stroll along the sandy shores of the beach, feeling the gentle breeze and warm sun on your skin.
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local markets, where you can find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and fresh produce. Consider dining at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood dishes while gazing at the ocean. Afterward, spend some time swimming or sunbathing before deciding to take a scenic walk along the coastline.
As the sun sets, gather on the beach for a picturesque view of the horizon. Head to a local bar or restaurant to indulge in traditional Uruguayan dishes, accompanied by local wines or cocktails. Spend your evening at a beach bonfire or catching live music performances when available.
Start your day with a visit to the Museo del Carnaval, where you can learn about the vibrant carnival traditions of Uruguay. Explore the colorful exhibits showcasing costumes and historical artifacts, immersing yourself in the local culture. Afterward, treat yourself to a hearty brunch at a nearby café, energizing for the day ahead.
Head to the nearby town of Piriápolis to visit the iconic Cerro del Toro for stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling regional specialties such as chivito or empanadas. Stroll along the beachfront promenade, taking in the picturesque sights and sounds of the area.
Return to Salinas for a quiet evening, where you can dine at a family-run restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and local dishes. Embrace the relaxed vibe and engage in conversations with locals to learn more about Salinas’ history and lifestyle. Finish your day with a peaceful evening walk along the beach, enjoying the calming sounds of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚎Local bus fare | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🏖️Beach chair or umbrella rental | $5-10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal vibe with easy access to Montevideo and nearby coastal towns
- Fresh seafood, outdoor activities, and family-friendly beaches
- Walkable promenade, scenic sunset views, and welcoming locals
- Seasonal crowds and variable services outside peak season
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger coastal destinations
- Public transport can be less frequent between smaller towns
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo inglés" - I speak English
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Salinas
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the calm Atlantic shore, ideal for wide-angle beach scenes and long exposures.
Expansive promenade with sea views and silhouettes of fishing boats, perfect for golden hour photography.
Colorful boats, nets, and morning activity provide dynamic foregrounds for vivid coastal shots.
Natural dune landscapes with sea vistas—great for tranquil nature photos, especially at dawn or dusk.
Local street art against a sea-backdrop; great for capturing daily life with a creative edge.
Food in Salinas
Salinas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A legendary Uruguayan sandwich with beef, ham, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, and a fried egg, often served with fries.
Must-Try!
Grilled local fish seasoned and finished with lemon and herbs, typically served with salad and potatoes.
Turnovers filled with seasoned beef, cheese, or vegetables; common at markets and casual eateries.
Breaded beef or chicken cutlet, sometimes served as milanesa a la napolitana with tomato and cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks along the promenade.
Seasonal stalls along the coastal promenade offering grilled skewers, empanadas, and fried fish bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake for introductions; friends and family may exchange a light cheek kiss. A polite greeting like 'Buenos días' goes a long way.
Social events tend to be relaxed; punctuality is appreciated, especially for organized activities or tours.
Light conversation about football or travel is common; avoid sensitive topics in initial chats.
Casual, modest dress in public; beachwear stays on the beach; tipping and politeness are valued.
Safety
Tipping in Salinas
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service isn’t included; small tips are common for café staff and street vendors at your discretion.
Cash (UYU) is widely accepted at markets and small eateries; credit/debit cards are common in larger restaurants and shops; ATMs are available in towns along the coast.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with strong sun; crowded beaches and lively waterfront scenes. Bring sunscreen, light clothing, and a hat; water-based activities are most popular.
Milder temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for coastal walks, seafood tastings, and relaxed outdoor dining.
Cool and breezy with possible showers; services are quieter but coastal landscapes can be dramatic; great for photography and intimate meals indoors.
Pleasant and breezy with blooming coastal flora; outdoor activities resume fully and local markets re-open with fresh produce.
Salinas at Night
Hiking in Salinas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails with sea views and opportunities for birding and sunset photography.
Short, scenic hikes through dune ecosystems offering panoramic coastal vistas.
Airports
How to reach Salinas by plane.
Montevideo’s main international airport; drive approximately 50–90 minutes to Salinas depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving Maldonado; about 2–2.5 hours by car from Salinas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many locals and visitors are families, attracted by safe beaches and kid-friendly activities.
Quiet neighborhoods and longer-stay visitors seeking a relaxed coastal pace.
A surge of visitors in summer from Montevideo and other parts of the country.
Younger visitors and outdoor lovers drawn to coastal activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national passion with local clubs and informal pickup games along the coast.
Seasonal surfing opportunities and beach volleyball along the Rambla.
Club and youth rugby presence in the broader region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salinas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include salads, pasta with vegetables, empanadas filled with cheese or vegetables, and grilled vegetables; ask for vegetarian milanesas or veggie-focused dishes where available.