Balneario Parque Mar Chiquita

Balneario Parque Mar Chiquita, a coastal village in Buenos Aires Province, sits between the Atlantic Ocean and a rare lagoon system. Founded in 1939 along Provincial Route 11, its centerpiece is the Albufera—a shallow lagoon where ocean saltwater mixes with freshwater streams, one of only four such ecosystems on Earth. The surrounding Mar Chiquita Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO, protects dunes, grasslands, and marshes that shelter 190 bird species, including flamingos and black-necked swans. Here, you can paddle kayaks through the lagoon, join guided walks to learn about local plants, or surf near beaches with breakwaters. The village has seafood restaurants, small grocery stores, and vacation rentals run by residents focused on sustainable tourism.

The Albufera Lagoon: Tides, Wildlife, and Tours

The Albufera’s shallow waters shift daily as tides push seawater through a narrow sandbar into the lagoon. Silverside fish thrive here, attracting birds like flamingos that feed in the brackish water. At low tide, walk along the sandbar to see how waves reshape the coastline, leaving pools filled with crabs and small fish. Guides from the Visitor Center (Fernando Soler 1424) explain how the lagoon formed and why local fishermen rely on its ecosystem. Free two-hour tours start at 9:30 AM on Tuesdays and Saturdays; book ahead via WhatsApp at +54 9 2265 422423.

Exploring the Mar Chiquita Biosphere Reserve

This UNESCO-protected area spans 26,488 hectares of beaches, dunes, and wetlands. Follow trails through grasslands where guanacos feed and past coastal zones frequented by sea lions. Bring binoculars to spot migratory birds like the red knot or listen for owls in pine forests near the lagoon. Park staff teach visitors how invasive plants threaten native grasses and organize hands-on dune restoration activities. Entry is free, but kayak rentals and birdwatching workshops cost around 5,000 Argentine pesos per person.

Beaches, Surfing, and Fishing

Mar Chiquita’s beaches have steady waves suited for surfing, especially near the southern breakwaters. Rent paddleboards or take kitesurfing lessons from operators along the shore. Fish from the breakwaters at dawn or dusk for croaker, sole, or corvina—locals often grill their catch on portable barbecues. From December to March, lifeguards monitor swimming zones, and you’ll find volleyball nets set up near the main beach access points. For a break from the ocean, picnic under trees lining the lagoon’s northern edge.

Where to Stay and How to Prepare

Choose from campsites, guesthouses, or hotels like Posada de los Sueños, which rents bikes and holds morning yoga classes. The village has a police station, medical clinic, and basic groceries, but stock up on supplies in Coronel Vidal, a 20-minute drive northwest. Buses run hourly to Mar del Plata (35 km south) during summer. Wear waterproof shoes if hiking near the lagoon, as trails can get muddy after rain. Check hotel policies in advance—many, including Posada de los Sueños, do not accept pets.

Festivals, Food, and Community Projects

Visit Mar Chiquita’s sustainable school, constructed from recycled materials, to join workshops on composting or native gardening. In January, the Craft Beer Festival serves local brews like Ersinger alongside smoked fish and regional cheeses. Families gather at Bosque Encantado de Duendes y Gaviotas, a play area with nature-themed storytelling sessions. As daylight fades, walk along the waterfront to try empanadas or grilled provoleta from food trucks.

Day Trips to Nearby Coastal Areas

Santa Clara del Mar, 15 km north, has a marina offering boat tours to see seals near rocky outcrops. Mar de Cobo, 10 km further north, draws snorkelers to its clear tidal pools. Reach both villages by local bus or rented bike. For a full-day excursion, drive 45 minutes south to Mar del Plata to visit museums like the Juan Carlos Castagnino Municipal Art Museum or swim at popular urban beaches.