Things To Do
in Pinamar

Pinamar is a stylish Atlantic coast resort town in Buenos Aires Province, renowned for its pristine beaches and pine forests. It blends sophisticated beachfront development with a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The town centers around broad avenues, dune landscapes, and a lively summer scene that draws visitors from Argentina and beyond.

Outdoor sports, golf, and seafood define Pinamar's relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Relaxation
morning
:

Arrive at Pinamar and settle into your beachfront accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores to soak in the fresh ocean breeze. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, immersing yourself in the beach town atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or partake in thrilling water sports such as paddleboarding or jet skiing. Explore the local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs and beachwear. Stop for lunch at a seaside restaurant to savor fresh seafood while enjoying views of the ocean.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a vibrant beach bar to enjoy refreshing cocktails. Enjoy the music and mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant known for its Argentinian asado.

day 2
Explore the Dunes
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an adventure in the nearby sand dunes. Join a guided tour or rent an ATV to navigate the stunning landscapes and indulge in some exhilarating rides. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

After an exciting morning, relax at one of the many beach clubs along the coast. Enjoy lunch with a view while sampling local dishes featuring fresh ingredients. Participate in beach volleyball or simply unwind with a good book.

evening
:

Visit the town center to explore its vibrant nightlife. Try some artisan ice cream at a local parlor before finding a cozy restaurant for dinner. End the night by experiencing a local music or dance performance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$25-60
Coffee/coffee shop$2-5
🛍️Weekly groceries for a small household$40-90
🚗Rental car per day$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and pine forests
  • Safe and family-friendly atmosphere
  • Great seafood and outdoor activities
  • Walkable town center and scenic coastline
  • Peak-season crowds and higher prices
  • Windy coastal conditions can be cool in spring/fall
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Some services may close in winter
  • "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?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Quisiera una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?

Places to Visit in Pinamar

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa principal de Pinamar

Long sandy beach with soft dunes and expansive skies, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour shots.

Dunas de Pinamar

Golden dunes with pine forest backdrop creating dramatic silhouettes at dawn or sunset.

Paseo del Bosque y Avenida Libertador

Tree-lined boulevards and ocean-facing promenades with cafes, perfect for candid street photography.

Paseo de los Pioneros

A dune-to-forest trail with views over the coast, great for wide-angle coastal landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pinamar

Pinamar's cuisine leans on coastal seafood and Argentine grill traditions, with abundant fresh fish, crustaceans, and seasonal produce.

Pinamar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Choripán

Grilled chorizo sausage on a crusty roll, a beloved street-food staple often enjoyed with chimichurri and a cold drink.

Must-Try!

Pescados y mariscos a la parrilla

Freshly grilled fish and seafood platters, usually served with lemon, herbs, and a side of salad.

Asado argentino

Classic Argentine barbecue with beef cuts, sausages, and chorizos grilled to perfection.

Empanadas

Hand-held pastries stuffed with beef, chicken, or vegetables, widely available at bakeries and markets.

Helado artesanal

Artisanal ice cream with flavors like dulce de leche, chocolate, and seasonal fruit sorbets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Beachfront stalls

Seasonal stalls along the promenade offering choripán, empanadas, and fresh treats.

Avenida Bunge promenade

Casual market-like stands with snacks, cold drinks, and quick bites during peak season.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pinamar has a temperate maritime climate influenced by the Atlantic, with mild winters, warm summers, and refreshing sea breezes. Summer highs typically reach the low-to-mid 20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit) to upper 20s on hotter days, with cooler nights. Winter is mild and windy, with daytime temperatures often in the 8–15°C (46–59°F) range. Expect considerable humidity and breezy conditions year-round, especially along the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and conversation

Greet with 'Hola' or 'Buenos días'; casual conversations often start with small talk about the weather or family.

Dress and manners

Casual but neat attire is typical for dining; beachwear is fine on the beach but not in indoor or formal venues.

Mate culture

Sharing mate is common; if offered, accept or politely decline and return the cup after finishing.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pinamar is generally safe, with typical urban precautions. Watch for petty theft in crowded areas and keep valuables secure on the beach. Be mindful of strong sun and water safety; swim in designated areas and heed lifeguards. Dune and forest areas are beautiful but can be unstable in high winds—stick to marked paths.

Tipping in Pinamar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Argentina, a tip of about 10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included; check the bill for a servicio charge.

Payment Methods

Cash in local pesos is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common; ATMs are available; some venues may accept USD in tourist areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Peak tourist season (December to February). Expect large crowds, busy beaches, warm days with sea breezes, and bright, long days.

Autumn

Milder weather (March to May), fewer crowds, pleasant for cycling and outdoor dining, with cooler nights.

Winter

Quiet season (June to August). Some businesses operate on limited hours; milder to cool days and windy coastal conditions.

Spring

September to November offers blooming landscapes, comfortable temperatures, and expanding outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Pinamar at Night

Pinamar's nightlife centers on beach clubs, stylish bars, and casual pubs that come alive in summer. Expect sunset terraces, live music, and seasonal DJ sets, with a relaxed, upscale vibe rather than a loud club scene. Many bars cluster around the beachfront and Avenida Bunge, offering cocktails and seafood bites until late. Outside peak season, nightlife is mellow, with cafés and small venues hosting occasional performances.

Hiking in Pinamar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Duna-foresta trail near Pinamar

Coastal dune and forest loop with ocean views and shaded segments.

Cariló forest trails

Gentle forest walks through pine stands with lookout spots nearby.

Airports

How to reach Pinamar by plane.

Mar del Plata International Airport (MDQ)

Astor Piazzolla International Airport; the closest major airport with regular domestic and international connections; about a 2.5–3.5 hour drive depending on traffic.

Buenos Aires Ezeiza International Airport (EZE)

Major international gateway with domestic connections; typical transfer by road or short domestic flight to MDQ.

Buenos Aires Aeroparque (AEP)

Urban airport serving many domestic routes; access to the coast often via road transfer or via MDQ.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pinamar is walkable in the town center and along the beachfront promenade, with wide sidewalks and bike lanes. The main stretches along Avenida Libertador and the shoreline are easy to explore on foot, though some beaches require a short drive or bike ride. Parking can be challenging in peak season near the beaches, so plan accordingly. A bike rental culture makes day trips convenient for exploring nearby Valeria del Mar and Cariló.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local families

Many residents and visitors are families with children who vacation seasonally.

Seasonal tourists

A significant influx of visitors from Buenos Aires and neighboring countries during summer months.

International visitors

Visitors from Chile, Uruguay, and Europe occupy hotels and beaches during peak season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Golf

Several courses with ocean views are popular among visitors and locals.

Tennis

Clubs and courts offer public play and professional-level facilities.

Windsurfing and sailing

Coastal winds create ideal conditions for wind-based watersports.

Horseback riding

Guided rides along beaches and forest trails.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light outside peak season; during summer weekends and holidays, beaches fill up and traffic can slow along the coastal roads. Public transport is available via buses to nearby towns and Mar del Plata, with taxis and rideshare options in town. Bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking or cycling a pleasant way to get around the core area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pinamar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many places offer vegetarian options such as salads, pasta, grilled vegetables, and non-meat plates; ask for vegetable-based dishes or vegetariano.

Gluten-Free

Choose dishes labeled gluten-free or request without gluten; communicate potential cross-contamination and opt for grilled fish, salads, and simple sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are local clinics and private doctors in Pinamar for routine care and minor emergencies; for more comprehensive or specialized care, residents and visitors often travel to Mar del Plata or Buenos Aires, which offer larger hospitals and specialists. Pharmacies are widely available and pharmacists can advise on minor ailments. Carry travel insurance and know emergency numbers; local English-speaking staff are less common outside tourist facilities.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide