La Islita
A picturesque stone beach on Lago Lacar, known for its iconic island and stunning turquoise waters. Perfect for relaxation and swimming.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal water temps & fewer crowds
La Islita
Best Time
Ideal water temps & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque stone beach on Lago Lacar, known for its iconic island and stunning turquoise waters. Perfect for relaxation and swimming.
"Charming and peaceful place, totally worth it to go there!"
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
The beach and lakebed are rocky; water shoes make walking and swimming much more comfortable.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to La Islita can be challenging. Consider using the designated parking area for safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Islita
Center of the beach
A small, picturesque island in the middle of Lago Lacar, offering stunning views and a unique swimming destination.
Rocky Shoreline
Beach area
A unique beach composed of smooth stones, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the Patagonian scenery.
Lago Lacar Views
Overlooking the lake
Crystal-clear turquoise waters and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing La Islita
Best Time to Visit La Islita
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
The beach and lakebed are rocky; water shoes make walking and swimming much more comfortable.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to La Islita can be challenging. Consider using the designated parking area for safety.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk Option
Access La Islita via the walking trail from San Martín de los Andes for beautiful forest and lake views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning turquoise waters and the iconic island.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
The beach and lakebed are rocky; water shoes make walking and swimming much more comfortable.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to La Islita can be challenging. Consider using the designated parking area for safety.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk Option
Access La Islita via the walking trail from San Martín de los Andes for beautiful forest and lake views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning turquoise waters and the iconic island.
🏕️ Camping Potential
The area offers camping possibilities with facilities for campfires, perfect for an overnight stay.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Islita is praised for its stunning natural beauty, clear turquoise waters, and the unique charm of its small island. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity for swimming and relaxation. However, the rocky beach and challenging access road are noted drawbacks.
"Just look at that adorable little island."
Josiah Roe
"It cost only 250 pesos for entrance and it is a 1hr moderate walk. Sound of nature that gives you a mirador and a beach view (another 40min walk). It is only a 20 min walk from the terminal station. I recommend you to stay 1 or 2 nights in order to visit the town, the beaches, the lake and to take the bus to Junin for a full day. View my comments for Junin."
Antoine Assaad
"It's a bit difficult to get to, which on the other hand makes it less crowdy. I went by car and it's not the easiest road to drive and I saw other cars had problems. But it's doable. There's a parking which charges 200 but I do recommend using it, cause it's big and safe. The playa has stones so a bit difficult to walk on, easy if you have water shoes. The island to swim to is a treat, I think that you can essentially walk to it, the water does not get too deep, but it is deep away from the island. Water temperature in February was ideal."
Petr Vasicek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Islita is located about 5 km from the center of San Martín de los Andes. You can reach it by car via Provincial Route 48, though the road can be challenging.
The road can be difficult for some vehicles, so driving carefully is advised. There is a parking area available for a fee, which is recommended for its size and safety.
Yes, you can walk to La Islita. The trail is part of the route to Mirador Bandurrias and offers beautiful scenery along Lago Lacar.
La Islita is approximately 5 km from the center of San Martín de los Andes.
While not explicitly detailed, the proximity to San Martín de los Andes suggests local bus services might be available, or it's a common destination for tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
One visitor mentioned a fee of 250 pesos for entrance, though this may vary.
La Islita is a natural beach and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times mentioned.
No advance booking is typically required for La Islita, as it's a natural beach. Entry fees, if applicable, are usually paid on-site.
Absolutely! La Islita is perfect for a day trip, offering beautiful scenery, swimming opportunities, and relaxation.
Yes, the area offers the possibility of camping, with facilities available for campfires and cooking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The beach at La Islita is characterized by its smooth stones, making it a unique landscape. It's known for its clear, turquoise waters and the charming small island in the lake.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at La Islita. The water temperature in February was described as ideal by one visitor. You can swim to the island, as the water doesn't get too deep near it.
Visitors can relax on the stone beach, swim in Lago Lacar, swim to the island, and enjoy the scenic views. Kayaking is also a popular option.
It can get busy, especially during peak summer weekends. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can offer a more peaceful experience.
Facilities mentioned include a parking area and, for campers, areas for setting up fires and cooking.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic small island in the lake is a must-photograph subject.
Yes, drone footage of La Islita showcases its stunning beauty, highlighting the island, the lake, and the Patagonian landscape.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the turquoise hues of the water. Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers stunning light.
The presence of the small island and the unique stone beach offer distinct photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain views. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for water activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Camping is also an option for those looking to minimize accommodation costs. 💑 Couples
Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds and savor the tranquility. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
+1 These routes offer immersion in the Patagonian flora and fauna, with rewarding panoramic views of Lago Lacar. The unique stone beach and the clear waters are a testament to the raw natural beauty of the region. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Surroundings: Mirador Bandurrias & Playa Bonita
The trail to Mirador Bandurrias is approximately 3 km from the city center and passes through forests of oak trees, providing a pleasant trekking experience. +1Adjacent to La Islita is Playa Bonita, another lovely beach known for its beauty and proximity to the city, located about 5 km from the center.
Exploring these areas together offers a comprehensive experience of the natural beauty around Lago Lacar. These locations are easily accessible and form a popular route for visitors looking to experience the diverse landscapes of the region. Whether you're hiking, driving, or enjoying water activities, this circuit provides a memorable Patagonian adventure.
The Mystical Allure of La Islita
While most reviews focus on the natural beauty and recreational aspects of La Islita, these anecdotal accounts add a layer of mystery to the destination. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most captivating places hold stories that go beyond the visual.
This blend of stunning natural scenery and subtle, unexplained phenomena makes La Islita a place that can offer more than just a typical beach day. It's a destination that invites exploration, relaxation, and perhaps a moment of reflection on the deeper mysteries of nature.
Activities and Access on Lago Lacar
+1Access to La Islita and other points along Lago Lacar can be achieved through multiple means. For the adventurous, hiking along the trails provides not only access but also stunning vistas.
+1 Driving is another common method, though caution is advised on the unpaved sections. +1The combination of accessible natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities makes Lago Lacar and its shores, including La Islita, a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts visiting San Martín de los Andes.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit