Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Mar del Plata, Argentina

Mar del Plata is the second-most visited city in Argentina after Buenos Aires, likely due to its status as the premier beach destination within the country.

Locally known as “Mardel,” the city boasts exceptional restaurants serving fresh seafood, a bustling port filled with traditional fishing vessels and playful sea lions, vibrant handicraft markets, and a lively nightlife scene.

In addition, art museums and diverse shopping opportunities await you, along with fashionable streets lined with cafes, bars, and parks.

While the numerous beaches are a major attraction, Mar del Plata also features casinos, theaters, an aquarium, and several water parks for those seeking alternatives to sunbathing.

Let’s explore the top activities in Mar del Plata:

1. Hit the Beaches

The beaches are a primary reason for the influx of visitors to Mar del Plata, albeit during summer (December through March), they tend to become exceedingly busy.

Public beach access is complimentary, though early arrival is advisable to secure a favored location. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, and for those seeking solitude, private tents can be rented slightly further from the shoreline.

Some private beach clubs also feature swimming pools for guest enjoyment.

Playa Varese and Playa Iglesia are prominent beaches situated downtown with adjacent cafes and shops.

Playa Grande, located centrally as well, offers a variety of bars and restaurants, in addition to surf rentals and lessons.

To the south of the city, you can discover calmer and less populated beaches such as Punta Mogotes, near the lighthouse, and Playa Serena, located even further south.

If interested, Playa Escondida serves as a legal nude beach approximately 15 miles (25 km) from the city.

2. Torre Tanque

This engaging attraction is suited for families and offers a romantic experience for couples. Ascend the water tower in Mar del Plata for unparalleled views of the surroundings.

The tower features a free water-powered elevator to the summit, where guests can enjoy a lookout point with remarkable 360-degree views of the coastal landscape and the city.

It serves as a functional water tank managed by the municipal water company.

For those interested in understanding its operation, staff members are available to provide informative tours of the meters and machinery.

Visiting during sunset is recommended, as the site occasionally hosts concerts on the lawn during summer.

3. Centro Cultural Villa Victoria Ocampo

This residence served as the summer retreat for Argentine writer and societal figure Victoria Ocampo.

The entirety of the house was transported from England to Argentina via maritime journey, allowing visitors to explore historical insights into early 20th-century high society leisure activities.

You will discover photographs of numerous notable personalities who visited Ocampo during that era, alongside original furniture and opulent fixtures.

Visitors are also attracted by the architectural beauty, changing cultural and art exhibits, lovely gardens, as well as summer concerts and theatrical performances.

4. Eat Some Great Seafood

Given its coastal location, Mar del Plata is home to numerous exceptional restaurants specializing in fresh seafood, with calamari being particularly abundant.

In January, the city hosts the Fiesta Nacional de los Pescadores (Festival of the Fishermen), featuring local seafood delicacies and a parade throughout the town.

For dining, Sur is a long-standing favorite renowned for seafood, frequently regarded as the finest establishment in the city, resulting in consistent crowds.

La Marina is another favored spot for locals, serving delightful yet unpretentious seafood in generous portions.

Viento en Popa is recognized for its high-quality fish, while Chichilo allows patrons to select their seafood directly at the counter.

If a more upscale option appeals to you, consider La Piazza or Alito, both of which are situated in prime locations.

5. Aquarium Mar del Plata

This notable aquarium is not only home to vibrantly colored fish tanks but also features vast natural lagoons, an aviary, and a saltwater lake.

It includes a touch pool for interactive experiences with marine life and showcases performances featuring dolphins and sea lions.

As one of the most modern aquariums in South America, visitors can learn about local wildlife by engaging with marine mammals, birds, sharks, and several rehabilitated animals.

Guests can purchase a ticket for the day, explore various exhibits, and enjoy the aquarium’s boardwalk and private beach.

6. Go to a Water Park

If beach activities have been sufficiently enjoyed, consider visiting one of the water parks near Mar del Plata with the whole family.

Located a short drive north of the city, Aquasol is a spacious water park offering an impressive wave pool, numerous waterslides, a zip-line, and a lazy river.

Admission is affordable, and visitors can rent lockers, floats, and umbrellas, while a restaurant is available for meals.

Just beyond the city, the popular Aquopolis features a diverse range of water slides (including thrilling options), pleasant areas for children to play and splash, as well as reasonably priced snacks and beverages.

Grills and picnic tables are also provided if you wish to bring your own food.

7. Museo de Arte Contemporáneo

A landmark within the city, MAR is a contemporary museum showcasing artwork, including pop art, sculptures, and diverse pieces by renowned Argentine artists.

The facility itself exudes a modern aesthetic, facing the ocean with bright spaces and varying exhibits over time.

Workshops are also available for children, allowing them to paint with acrylics.

Among its popular installations is a giant sea lion sculpture, constructed from golden alfajor wrappers by Marta Minujín, known for her edible art. Admission is complimentary, featuring a library and a café on-site.

8. Puerto Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata boasts a flourishing fishing industry, so a visit to the port offers an opportunity to observe the colorful boats returning with their catches of the day.

A picturesque wharf, la Banquina de Pescadores, is available for strolls and photography.

Souvenir stalls are plentiful, as well as vendors selling inexpensive, fresh seafood where one can enjoy excellent fried calamari.

While there, be sure to visit the city’s sea lion reserve, where these creatures come to rest before mating along the shores of Uruguay.

The reserve is classified as a national monument, home to as many as 800 male sea lions.

9. Do Some Local Shopping

Explore Mar del Plata’s craft fair, Diagonal de los Artesanos, which features up to 200 vendors daily during the summer season.

Located along Plaza San Martín and Diagonal Pueyrredon, it is an ideal location for souvenir shopping, offering traditional mate gourds, knitted sweaters, silver jewelry, and leather goods.

During off-peak times, the fair operates only on Saturdays and Sundays.

The Feria de Artesanos del Torreón, situated next to Playa Varese, features around 80 stalls, showcasing artisans who often create crafts tailored to your specifications.

If that doesn’t suffice, consider visiting Mercado de las Pulgas (flea market) in Plaza Rocha for an array of vintage items.

10. Torreón del Monje

Constructed during Mar del Plata’s historical heyday, this monumental medieval-style structure is situated along the coastal rocks at Punta Piedras.

Resembling a castle, Torreón del Monje features a lookout tower, distinctive red domes, and a stone footbridge, currently serving as a restaurant and event venue.

Originally built by businessman Ernesto Tornquist to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the town surrounding his summer villa, it has become a recognizable city landmark.

While the dining experience may not be exceptional, stopping by for sightseeing, magnificent views, and perhaps a beverage on the terrace adjacent to the shoreline is recommended.

11. Take a DIY Walking Tour of the City

Discover the charm of downtown Mar del Plata on foot.

The areas surrounding Playa Varese and Playa Grande showcase impressive views and architecture, while Güemes, a trendy street and shopping area, is filled with an array of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Explore Peatonal San Martín, the pedestrian-only street situated opposite the grand Casino Central.

Plaza San Martín features the Catedral de los Santos Pedro y Cecilia, the main cathedral of the city, designed in neo-Gothic style, adorned with stained glass windows and a French chandelier.

Be sure to stroll along La Rambla, the expansive boardwalk that directs visitors past sea lion sculptures and various beaches.

Afterward, wander down Calle Alem, celebrated for its dining, shopping, and nightlife options.

Indulge in churros and unwind during sunset at Parque General San Martín for stunning views of Playa Grande.

12. Take a Day Trip to Sierra de los Padres

If you are seeking a tranquil, nature-filled escape from the city, visit the quaint town of Sierra de los Padres and the nearby Laguna de los Padres.

Merely a 20-minute drive separates you from the lagoon nestled in this wooded landscape, providing fresh air and trails for walking alongside barbecue facilities for asado.

The region is characterized by its forests, a modest mountain range, canoe rentals, and the remnants of a Jesuit mission.

The serene village of Sierra de los Padres is populated with charming souvenir shops and restaurants where one can enjoy a platter of picadas (a selection of cold meats, olives, and cheeses) amidst the peaceful ambiance.

13. Take a Boat Ride

Embark on a short boat cruise to experience Mar del Plata from the water while gaining insights into its historical context.

Crucero Anamora offers voyages around the harbor lasting one to two hours, visiting significant city landmarks, such as Cape Corrientes, the sea lion reserve, the principal fish-processing facility, and the Mar del Plata Naval Base.

Featuring three decks, the vessel permits guests to relish the invigorating ocean breeze outside or inside beside the windows.

A café is available on the lower level, offering coffee and medialuna (or a beer) for the journey.

14. Check out the City’s Nightlife and Entertainment

Featuring theaters, bowling alleys, bars, nightclubs, and various casinos, nightlife represents one of the most appealing aspects of Mar del Plata for visitors, especially during the summer months.

For those interested in gaming or historical architecture, a visit to Casino Central is highly recommended.

Concerts, shows, and theatrical performances can be found at Radio City, Roxy, and Melany theaters within the Centro de Arte, or consider attending an enthralling tango show at Teatro Colón.

For a night out, dance until the early hours at popular spots on Avenida Constitucion, where Sobremonte is particularly favored.

During summer, beach parties transform the sand into lively music venues and dance floors.

15. Go Deep Sea Fishing

Arrange an excursion into the ocean for a fishing experience guided by skilled professionals.

These guides provide the boat, necessary equipment, bait, and expert knowledge to bring you to optimal fishing locales, teaching you about the best techniques and lures to employ.

Departing early from one of the harbor clubs, lunch is generally provided during your trip.

You can expect to catch varieties such as sea bream, trout, grouper, and yellowtail, bringing your catches back to shore later in the afternoon.

Some tour operators will prepare your fish for consumption, and others even offer to cook it for you.