Cabo Polonio ranks first in the list of the most beautiful coastal towns in Uruguay. This unique fishing village jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, impossible to forget and nearly impossible to reach, is frequently cited as visitors' favorite Uruguayan destination. It's an oddity in and of itself; for starters, the only way in and out of the resort is to take one of the taxi-trucks that run between the main road and Cabo. Furthermore, as part of a Nature Reserve, there is no running water, no electricity, and no boundaries between properties. But don't be put off by the lack of amenities; instead, embrace them. Aside from the occasional burst of laughter, the gentle hum of home generators, and the whistling sea breeze, there is no noise.

Cooking often entails roasting a chicken over an open fire or on a gas stove. A shower is typically comprised of a bucket of water drawn from a well or a quick dip in the sea. Mother Nature does indeed reign supreme here, with ponies and frogs roaming the dunes and sea lions sunbathing on the rocks.

Renting refurbished fishing huts, the occasional hostel, and a pair of small hotels on the beach front are the only options for lodging. Posada Mariemar is one of the few places to stay that has running water and electricity. Although the rooms are small, they all have stunning views of the sea. Posada de los Corvinos is located a little further out from the center of Cabo Polonio and has three double rooms and a large room with six bunk beds. On chilly nights, a log fire comes in handy, and hammocks are spread out in the garden. The sun provides energy, and vegetables are grown in their organic garden.

Google rating: 4.6/5.0

Location: Rocha Department, Uruguay

La Pedrera, just seven kilometers from La Paloma, is one of a few seaside resorts in this part of Uruguay that have been labeled 'bohemian-chic.' The main activities here are surfing or just hanging out on the beach all day before indulging in a traditional asado, which is more affordable and down-to-earth than many other resorts in the area (BBQ). It's a small town with a few run-down bars and restaurants serving freshly grilled seafood. However, when the summer vacations arrive, the streets are filled with sandy-haired teenagers and traveling artisans selling handmade art and crafts.

The main beaches in La Pedrera are the family-friendly Desplayado, Punta Rubia, and Playa del Barco, which is named after a large Chinese ship (Cathay VIII) that ran aground in the 1970s and still sits in the middle of the beach. If you happen to be there in the middle of summer, the La Pedrera Short Film Festival, which features a slew of international filmmakers, takes place in early January.

The rather upscale Terrazas de la Pedrera has its own restaurant and swimming pool and is close to both the beach and the center. The majority of the rooms have stunning ocean views, and there's even a pool table for those rainy days. Among the many amenities offered by the traditional, old-style Hotel La Pedrera are indoor and outdoor swimming pools, as well as a tennis court. The rooms were originally built in 1941, but a recent renovation has given them new life. Standard rooms have their own terrace with views of the garden, while superior rooms have views of the sea.

Google rating: 4.6/5.0

Location: Uruguay

La Paloma, an 80-kilometer drive up the coast from Jose Ignacio, has long outgrown its reputation as a mere "fishing town" to become one of Rocha's most popular tourist destinations. During the summer, it attracts a diverse crowd of mostly young people, ranging from surfers to families with children who can freely roam the streets. La Paloma now has a plethora of activities in and around the port, but the beaches remain the main draw.

The most popular beaches are La Aguada to the east and La Balconada to the west, with the latter being a popular place to watch the sunset. Also nearby is the family-friendly beach known as 'El Plato' (the plate), while Playa Anaconda, the preferred surfing spot, is a three-kilometer hike away.

Hotel Portobello has ocean views over Playa Anaconda, friendly service, and a great vibe, but the facilities are basic, as they are in many hotels in this part of the world. There is no air conditioning, no minibar, and the rooms are small. Everything about the recently refurbished Hotel Palma de Mallorca, from the wonderful family-style service to the 20-metre walk to the beach, is straightforward. Some of the 33 rooms can accommodate up to six people.

Google rating: 4.6/5.0
Location: Rocha, Uruguay

Punta del Diablo is a village and seaside locality in Uruguay, Rocha Department, 298 kilometres (185 mi) east from the capital Montevideo. The surf at this town's beautiful beach isn't called the Devil's Point for nothing; it's a force to be reckoned with. This laid-back spot is a haven for surfers, hippies, and sun worshippers alike, thanks to consistent swells almost all year. Visit Punta between April and November for the best waves.

In Punta del Diablo, you'll find everything from artisanal chocolate to intricate blown glass at quaint market stalls dotted throughout the town. It's also one of the most enticing foodie spots on the coast. Il Tano Cucina is a popular restaurant with an innovative, Italian-inspired menu and an exceptional wine list, even by Uruguayan standards. Early January is the busiest time in this once sleepy fishing village, with colourful bars popping up all over. If you’re looking to avoid peak crowds and prices, roll up in December or February for peace, quiet and a spot of whale watching.

Google rating: 4.5/5.0

Address: Il Tano Cucina, Calle 5 y Calle 20, Punta del Diablo, Uruguay

Punta del Este ranks 5th in the list of the most beautiful coastal towns in Uruguay. Punta del Este is South America's favorite beach resort for the rich, famous, and impossibly beautiful. It's swaggering, carefree, and always fun. Many models' careers have been launched (and a few wealthy businessmen's have been ruined) here. The Saint Tropez of South America, it has the prices and snobbiness to match, but away from the bar and club scene, there are plenty of down-home restaurants and some lovely beaches.

Punta del Este has an interesting history, despite its rather frivolous reputation. Che Guevara famously chastised American and regional leaders after the Day of the Pigs debacle, and the World Trade Organization was founded in Punta in 1994. But it has always been at its most exciting during the summer season (Dec-Feb) when hordes of Argentineans, Brazilians and North Americans descend en masse in search of fun, carnality and the perfect selfie in front of a setting sun.

Punta's best hotel is also its most popular attraction. Casapueblo is a hotel/art museum located 10 miles west of the main peninsula. With white-washed turreted peaks and a labyrinth of 80 rooms spread across 13 floors, this eccentric property is a surrealist's dream. The Hotel Conrad is Punta's most iconic hotel, known for its star-studded parties and bikini catwalks. It's a massive complex with a gym, a beauty salon, a casino, and glass-fronted restaurants overlooking La Mansa beach.

Google rating: 4.5/5.0

Location: Maldonado, Uruguay

Colonia del Sacramento, the region's most picturesque destination, is only two hours from Montevideo and a one-hour boat ride across the River Plate from Buenos Aires. This tiny former Portuguese colony with a rich history (it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996) is an ideal place to spend a few days relaxing by the river. The old barrio, which is surrounded by water on three sides, is distinguished by cobblestone streets lined with sycamore trees and brightly painted colonial houses.

Colonia's history, like that of so many other ports in the region, is filled with battles and stories of heroism before independence was eventually won. Colonia has embraced its fascinating past by opening a number of museums that can be easily (and inexpensively) visited with a tourism pass that grants access to eight different cultural attractions. While not known for its sandy beaches, Colonia does have a beautiful coastline. A lovely stroll along the local beach, flanked by palm trees and vacation homes, is bookended by the former bull ring and the Sheraton Hotel.

The Posada Plaza Mayor, housed within a historic building with beautifully decorated rooms, a lovely patio, and a small garden close to the river, is probably the best hotel in the old part of town. The Sheraton Colonia Golf and Spa Resort is located away from the town center and is surrounded by trees and a golf course. The rooms are large, with many offering breathtaking views. There is also a winery, several swimming pools, a spa, and the acclaimed Cava Real restaurant.

Google rating: 4.5/5.0
Location: Colonia, Uruguay

Carmelo, located 77 kilometers along the coast from charming Colonia, is where the Rio de Uruguay widens into the Rio de la Plata. Carmelo, which dates from the turn of the nineteenth century, is comprised of cobblestoned streets lined with single-story houses and a busy port shared by sailing and fishing boats.

Carmelo is also in the heart of Uruguay's relatively unknown wine country. Uruguay is known for Tannat, a punchy, dark red that pairs well with its grass-fed beef. The country's oldest winery, Cerros de San Juan, is probably the best of the many wineries that welcome visitors by appointment. It was established in 1854 and still stores its wine in a century-old stone warehouse. If you want to relax, head south of the river to Arroyo de las Vacas, where you'll find Playa Seré, a quiet, child-friendly beach backed by large trees with a campsite and public barbecues.

The massive Four Seasons Carmelo Resort is nestled in a pine forest outside of Carmelo. It's a sprawling property with 44 zen-inspired bungalows, a massive pool, spa facilities, and even its own golf course. On the Rio de la Plata, it's the closest thing to Mar-a-Lago. The Hotel Casino Carmelo in the town center is a less flashy option. It's a charming and clean hotel with its own pool and direct access to Playa Seré.

Google rating: 4.5/5.0

Location: Colonia, Uruguay

Jose Ignacio, a former pirate hideaway, is now a tiny fishing village of single-story houses with thatched roofs coexisting with luxury condos with ocean-facing infinity pools. It's a must-see for its brilliant white sand, beach-chic atmosphere, and award-winning restaurants frequented by international actors and business moguls. Porsches outnumbered the flotilla by about ten to one at the last count - woe betide anyone arriving in an old banger.

There is truly something for everyone here, from lounging on a deckchair with a book and a poolside cocktail to horseback riding, biking, and surfing. La Huella, Uruguay's most famous restaurant (voted Best Restaurant in Uruguay 2017) and the resort's focal point, is located on the sand dunes of José Ignacio. This fantastic restaurant, which resembles a glorified beach shack, attracts the rich, the beautiful, and even the occasional Hollywood star.

The Posada del Faro is essentially an extension of a family's home, with 15 rooms. The decor is rustic-chic, with soft wooden floors, white-washed walls, and large awnings draped around the sunning areas. Despite the fact that there is no official restaurant, they serve a hearty all-day breakfast. Playa Vik is located directly in front of the beach. Fire pits, an impressive display of artwork, and grass-roofed villas designed by starchitect Carlos Ott are among the features. The impressive swimming pool jutting out over the sea completes the picture.

Google rating: 4.4/5.0
Location: Punta del Este, Uruguay

Piriápolis is located on Uruguay's only hilly coastline. It faces the Rio de la Plata, a large body of water that connects to the Atlantic Ocean. Piriápolis (population 9,000) is now known for its waterfront centro. The Mediterranean-style beachfront esplanade can be found on one side of the narrow coastal road. Large sun canopies stretch out over the entrances of stores, cafes, and ice cream shops on the other side.

Markets, hardware stores, and pharmacies are all available for shopping. There are also dozens of restaurants and cafes. A small fishing fleet docked in the local harbor. They supply fresh fish and seafood to the restaurants and residents of Piriápolis. Uruguay is located in the Southern Hemisphere, where the seasons are reversed. Piriápolis' population can triple during the high season month of January, when the majority of vacationers and snowbirds arrive. Piriápolis is quiet in the winter, making it ideal for long walks, reading, and home projects. Winter socializing includes getting together with other full-timers for lunch or an evening of board games.

Google rating: n/a

Location: Maldonado, Uruguay

Atlántida (population around 6,000) faces the Rio de la Plata, as does Piriápolis. Like Piriápolis, the population of Atlántida increases in the summer as tourists and snowbirds arrive. In fact, Atlántida serves as the hub of Uruguay's Costa de Oro (Gold Coast), a 42-mile stretch of summer resort communities. As a result, Atlántida has more shopping and services than you'd expect from a town of its size.

A coastal highway separates Atlántida (the Ruta Interbalnearia). Atlántida Sur, with its beaches, is located on the highway's southern side. It's the side of town with two large supermarkets, a pedestrian street, a few restaurants, and a half-dozen medical clinics. Atlántida Norte, on the north side of the coastal highway, is less developed. Expats also live in nearby Costa de Oro communities, in addition to Atlántida. Villa Argentina is located west of Atlántida, and Las Tocas and Parque Plata are located east of Atlántida.

While there are a few apartment buildings in Atlántida Sur, the majority of homes in the area are single-family homes with yards. It's a 30-minute drive from Atlántida to Montevideo's city limits, and a one-hour drive to the city center. You can enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of a small coastal town as an expat in Atlántida. And at the same time, be close to a capital city with several shopping malls, more than 1,000 places to eat, and the country’s top hospitals and medical specialists.

Google rating: n/a

Location: Costa de Oro, Canelones, Uruguay