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Home / Destinations / Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata

Argentina · Coast · ARS · -38.005500, -57.542600
Family friendly 7/10 · Rank 786 of 2 709
Best season: December-March

Best for

Suitable for beach lovers, nightlife enthusiasts, family holidays, seafood lovers, and urban tourism

Best season

December-March

Daily budget
$71.00 (≈ 5 958 ₽ · ≈ 63 900 ARS)
For 7 days
$497.00 (≈ 41 708 ₽ · ≈ 447 300 ARS)
Mar del Plata is Argentina's main beach resort on the Atlantic coast, known as "La Feliz" (The Happy City). It boasts luxurious beaches, the country's oldest casino and numerous seafood restaurants. It is the most popular summer holiday destination among Argentines.
Summer
33.6°C
Winter
3.0°C
Sea
22.1°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Friendly, hospitable, with a resort character and Italian heritage

Pros and cons

Pros

  • 47 km of golden sand beaches
  • Developed tourist infrastructure
  • Rich nightlife
  • Excellent seafood and restaurants
  • Affordable prices
  • Family and youth beaches for every taste
  • Proximity to Buenos Aires (400 km)
  • Variety of entertainment

Cons

  • No direct flights from Moscow
  • Very crowded in January
  • Cold water even in summer
  • Strong currents and sharks possible
  • City empties in winter
  • High prices during peak season
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
26.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
24.7°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
33.6°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
13.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
12.9°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
3.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
22.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
22.1°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
year-round, peak from November to January
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Playa Bristol
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
Present
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
moderate
Note

Main dangers are strong currents and possible shark encounters. Swimming on guarded beaches recommended, avoid swimming alone

Sea urchins — details

  • Encope emarginata (sand dollar) — found on sandy bottoms at 18-25 metres depth, not dangerous to humans
  • Bathycidaris argentina — new sea urchin species discovered at 1100-1950 metres depth, does not encounter humans

Corals and reefs — details

  • Gorgonian corals — found in coastal waters of Mar del Plata at depth, not dangerous to humans
  • Coral gardens — discovered in the Mar del Plata underwater canyon, pose no danger

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish may appear in warmer months, especially in January and February
  • Check with locals about jellyfish before swimming

Sharks — details

  • Sharks found in Atlantic waters off Mar del Plata, including reef and bull sharks
  • Swimming on guarded beaches recommended
Attractions

Playa Bristol

Main city beach with golden sand, promenade, and casino, the heart of resort life

Casino Central

Majestic 1930s casino building on the waterfront, symbol of the city

Playa Grande

Popular beach among youth with nightclubs and restaurants

Port of Mar del Plata

One of Argentina's largest fishing ports with seafood restaurants

Colonnade and Plaza San Martin

Historic colonnade and main city square with monument to San Martin

Museum of the Sea

Museum with a collection of marine exhibits and fishing history

La Perla

Traditional family beach north of the center

Sierra de los Padres

Scenic hills with panoramic views of the city and ocean

Mar del Plata Aquarium

Aquarium with marine life, popular for families with children

Varese Beach

Quiet beach, popular among surfers and locals

Best areas

La Perla

Traditional family area north of the center with beaches and quiet atmosphere

Playa Grande

Youth area with nightclubs, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife

Centro

Historic center with main square, museums, shops, and restaurants

Puerto

Port area with the best seafood restaurants and authentic atmosphere

Punta Mogotes

Scenic area with beaches and cliffs, popular for walks

Must-try food

Pancho Completo

Hot dog with mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, and house sauce, the city's iconic dish

Sorrentinos

Large ravioli filled with ham and cheese, Italian heritage of the city

Milanesa

Breaded cutlet, popular dish, served with potatoes

Fresh Seafood

Various types of fish and seafood from the port, grilled or fried

Alfajores

Traditional Argentine sweets with dulce de leche

Helado

Argentine ice cream, popular among locals and tourists

Asado

Argentine BBQ with beef cooked over coals

Provoleta

Grilled provolone cheese, popular snack

Where to go next

Miramar

Neighboring quiet beach town, popular for family holidays, 30 minutes away

Sierra de los Padres

Scenic hills with panoramic views, 30 minutes away

Villa Gesell

Popular beach resort with forests and dunes, 3 hours away

Necochea

City with beaches and port, 2 hours away

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт имени Астора Пиаццоллы (MDQ).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required (up to 90 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-March
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$11.00
≈ 923 ₽ · ≈ 9 900 ARS
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 45 000 ARS
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽ · ≈ 81 000 ARS
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$180.00
≈ 15 106 ₽ · ≈ 162 000 ARS
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 135 000 ARS
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽ · ≈ 49 500 ARS
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 4 500 ARS
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$14.00
≈ 1 175 ₽ · ≈ 12 600 ARS
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$1.80
≈ 151 ₽ · ≈ 1 620 ARS
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 1 800 ARS
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 900 ARS
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 7 200 ARS
Burger
Average price for a burger
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 5 400 ARS
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 3 150 ARS
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 5 400 ARS
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 18 000 ARS
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 450 ARS
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 3 150 ARS
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 40 500 ARS
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 4 500 ARS
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 10 800 ARS
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 27 000 ARS
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 45 000 ARS
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 27 000 ARS
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 9 000 ARS
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 7 200 ARS
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Frequently asked questions
Mar del Plata: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-March. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Mar del Plata: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.6°C, during the day — up to +24.7°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Mar del Plata: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +3.0°C, during the day — up to +12.9°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Mar del Plata: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +22.1°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Mar del Plata: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on year-round, peak from November to January. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Mar del Plata: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Playa Bristol. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Mar del Plata: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Mar del Plata: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish, sharks. Main dangers are strong currents and possible shark encounters. Swimming on guarded beaches recommended, avoid swimming alone. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Mar del Plata: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $71.00 (≈ 5 958 ₽ · ≈ 63 900 ARS) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Mar del Plata: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $11.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $50.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $90.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $180.00 per night, an apartment — $55.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Mar del Plata: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $5.00, dinner at a restaurant — $14.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.80, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Mar del Plata: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $3.50, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Mar del Plata: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Playa Bristol — Main city beach with golden sand, promenade, and casino, the heart of resort life; Casino Central — Majestic 1930s casino building on the waterfront, symbol of the city; Playa Grande — Popular beach among youth with nightclubs and restaurants; Port of Mar del Plata — One of Argentina's largest fishing ports with seafood restaurants; Colonnade and Plaza San Martin — Historic colonnade and main city square with monument to San Martin. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Mar del Plata: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Pancho Completo — Hot dog with mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, and house sauce, the city's iconic dish; Sorrentinos — Large ravioli filled with ham and cheese, Italian heritage of the city; Milanesa — Breaded cutlet, popular dish, served with potatoes; Fresh Seafood — Various types of fish and seafood from the port, grilled or fried; Alfajores — Traditional Argentine sweets with dulce de leche; Helado — Argentine ice cream, popular among locals and tourists; Asado — Argentine BBQ with beef cooked over coals; Provoleta — Grilled provolone cheese, popular snack. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Mar del Plata: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: La Perla — Traditional family area north of the center with beaches and quiet atmosphere; Playa Grande — Youth area with nightclubs, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife; Centro — Historic center with main square, museums, shops, and restaurants; Puerto — Port area with the best seafood restaurants and authentic atmosphere; Punta Mogotes — Scenic area with beaches and cliffs, popular for walks. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Mar del Plata: is a visa required?
Visa: not required (up to 90 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Mar del Plata: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт имени Астора Пиаццоллы (code MDQ). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Mar del Plata: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — ARS. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $71.00 (≈ 5 958 ₽ · ≈ 63 900 ARS). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Mar del Plata: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Mar del Plata: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Mar del Plata: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Miramar — Neighboring quiet beach town, popular for family holidays, 30 minutes away; Sierra de los Padres — Scenic hills with panoramic views, 30 minutes away; Villa Gesell — Popular beach resort with forests and dunes, 3 hours away; Necochea — City with beaches and port, 2 hours away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7/10
Overall rank: 786 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 525

Best season

December-March

Useful information

Currency: ARS
Coordinates: -38.005500, -57.542600