A Stylish Village In Uruguay With Exclusive Experiences Is Called The 'Hamptons Of South America'

The beautiful South American country of Uruguay sometimes gets overshadowed by its larger neighbors Argentina and Brazil. But this little gem has become a sought-after travel destination in recent years, and that trend is expected to continue. One of the more popular South American beach destinations is Punta del Este. With its flashy nightlife, high-rise hotels, and ostentatious visitors, it has frequently been compared to St. Tropez, as well as deemed one of the best places in South America for solo female travelers.

If that's not your scene and you prefer something a little more understated, rent a car at the Punta del Este International Airport and drive east for about 40 miles to the tiny town of José Ignacio. What was once a humble fishing village named after a shipwreck has now become one of the most beloved low-key getaways for the jet-setting crowd. With its mix of understated wealth and laidback bohemian vibes, it has been compared to the Hamptons from decades ago — before it became so polished and pretentious.

José Ignacio only has about 300 permanent residents, but the population can balloon up to 27 times that during the high season, which starts distinctly on December 26 and lasts into February. But given that the weather is sunny and pleasant much of the year, why not reap the benefits of traveling during the shoulder season? Great pains have been taken to keep the area from losing its culture and character. There are strict height and size restrictions for buildings, the roads are still dirt, and very few hotels are allowed to exist. The town didn't even have electricity or running water until the 1980s.

Despite its reputation as a playground for the ultra-wealthy, the town remains entirely unbothered to keep up with the rest of the world. Everything moves at a slower pace. Lunches are lingered over, beach trips are leisurely, and dinners start late and last long into the night. The atmosphere is family friendly with children even staying up late for the midnight meals. There are no thumping nightclubs, and there's a 2 a.m. noise curfew.

One of the things José Ignacio is known for is its food. One of the first restaurants that helped put the town on the map in the '70s was Posada del Mar — opened by famed Argentine chef Francis Mallman. Today, it's Parador La Huella that is on everyone's must-do list. What looks like a beach shack on the outside is filled with casually chic waiters in Lacoste uniforms and stylish tourists nibbling on delicious fresh seafood and sipping glasses of clericó (the local white sangria). If you're in town during the high season, don't miss Marismo. This secluded outdoor restaurant is lit only by candlelight and bonfire and is beloved for its slow-braised lamb.

One of the few hotels on the peninsula is Posada del Faro. Comparatively less fancy than some of the newer hotels that have popped up nearby, it's still a stunning beachfront property for a more reasonable price. On the other side of the peninsula is the Anastasio Hotel & Beach Club, which offers more of the high-end resort amenities some travelers prefer. You can choose from an adults-only villa with direct access to the exclusive pool and spa for guests ages 16 and older, or you can book a family villa with access to kid-friendly amenities like the family pool, foosball, and surf school.