This coastal town on Argentina's Atlantic coast is known for its wide sandy beaches, pine forests, and upscale resorts. Popular for summer vacations and water sports.
Pinamar, a coastal resort city in Argentina's Buenos Aires Province, is known for its wide beaches, pine-covered landscapes, and unique sand dunes. Located about 400 km south of Buenos Aires, this planned city emerged from a transformation of sand dunes into a popular summer destination. You'll find expansive shorelines, an artificial forest, and a carefully designed urban area, all shaped by strict building codes.
Location and Geography
Pinamar sits on the Atlantic coast of Argentina, in the Buenos Aires Province. The city extends along approximately 80 km of coastline, with sand dunes to the north and south. A small desert area, about 3 km long and 1.5 km wide, separates Pinamar from the neighboring town of Villa Gesell. This unique geography contributes to Pinamar's character and appeal.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
The beaches of Pinamar have coarse, grayish-white sand and shallow waters. The main beach, Playa De Pinamar, fronts the town and is lined with bars and restaurants. The ocean here is generally calm, with deeper waters and stronger currents only appearing about 100 meters from the shore. You can swim safely close to the shore with your children.
Pine Forests and Dunes
Pinamar's name comes from its artificial pine forest ("pina" means pine in Spanish). The Argentine government transformed the sand dunes by planting thousands of pine trees, creating a landscape that blends coastal and forest environments. These forested areas offer cooler spots during hot summer days.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Pinamar has a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. The summer season, from November to April, is the busiest tourist period. During these months, average daily maximum temperatures range from 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F). The rainy season coincides with the summer months, particularly in November, January, and March. Winter temperatures are cooler, with July seeing average daily maximums of around 13°C (56°F).
Transportation and How to Get There
You can reach Pinamar through various means. From Buenos Aires, take a train from Constitución station to Divisadero de Pinamar station, which opened in 1996. From the station, located 2 km west of the city center, you can take a bus to reach your final destination. If you prefer to drive, Pinamar is about a 4-hour drive from Buenos Aires. The nearest airport is in Villa Gesell, 25 km south of Pinamar, with flights available from Buenos Aires.
Accommodation Options
Pinamar caters to a range of budgets and preferences for accommodation. The city center, particularly along Jorge Bunge Avenue, houses most of the larger hotels. As you move closer to the sea, prices tend to increase. For a more intimate experience, stay in one of the many small, family-run hotels or guesthouses scattered throughout the city's green neighborhoods. These often accommodate no more than 18 guests, providing a personal atmosphere.
Local Cuisine and Dining
The food scene in Pinamar offers both traditional Argentine cuisine and international options. Seafood is a highlight, given the city's coastal location. Many restaurants line the beachfront, allowing you to enjoy your meal with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. For a truly local experience, try the lobster or sample some of the fresh fish caught daily by local fishermen.
