Las Grutas

Las Grutas is a bustling Argentine tourist town on the Gulf of San Matias in northern Patagonia. The name 'Las Grutas,' which translates as "The Caves," refers to the caves formed by sea erosion on the cliffs that separate the city from the beach.

Its lengthy beaches are backed by cliffs pocked with caverns. The nearby Piedras Coloradas Beach is dotted with reddish rock formations from the Precambrian period. San Antonio Bay, in the fishing village of San Antonio Oeste, is a protected habitat for migratory shorebirds. Sea lions and burrowing parrots can be seen in the region.

Las Grutas, which was almost unheard of until lately, is quickly becoming a favorite beach getaway for those in the know. The beaches offer whiter sand and warmer waters than their northern equivalents, which many people say makes it worthwhile to trek the extra distance. Another significant benefit is the three-hour journey to Puerto Madryn, Patagonia's greatest wildlife park, which is home to a plethora of lively elephant seals, sea lions, and penguins.

Location: Las Grutas, Río Negro, Argentina