La Mano (The Hand)
An iconic concrete hand sculpture emerging from the sands of Playa Brava, a must-see landmark in Punta del Este.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
La Mano (The Hand)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic concrete hand sculpture emerging from the sands of Playa Brava, a must-see landmark in Punta del Este.
"It is kind the trademark of punta del este uruguay. It is probably the most popular place in punta del este uruguay."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Arrive early or late to avoid crowds and get that iconic selfie with the hand! :camerawithflash:
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
It can get quite windy on the beach, so secure your belongings and maybe bring a light jacket. :windblowingface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Hand Sculpture
Playa Brava
Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal's concrete masterpiece, a must-see landmark of Punta del Este.

Playa Brava Views
Surrounding the sculpture
Enjoy stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline from this picturesque beach setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Photos
More Than Just a Sculpture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Arrive early or late to avoid crowds and get that iconic selfie with the hand! :camerawithflash:
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
It can get quite windy on the beach, so secure your belongings and maybe bring a light jacket. :windblowingface:
🚶♀️ Explore the Beach
Don't just snap a pic and leave; enjoy the beautiful Playa Brava and its surroundings. :ocean:
🛍️ Shops & Bites Nearby
Plenty of food options and shops are just a stone's throw away, making it a convenient stop. :shoppingbags: :forkandknifewith_plate:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Arrive early or late to avoid crowds and get that iconic selfie with the hand! :camerawithflash:
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
It can get quite windy on the beach, so secure your belongings and maybe bring a light jacket. :windblowingface:
🚶♀️ Explore the Beach
Don't just snap a pic and leave; enjoy the beautiful Playa Brava and its surroundings. :ocean:
🛍️ Shops & Bites Nearby
Plenty of food options and shops are just a stone's throw away, making it a convenient stop. :shoppingbags: :forkandknifewith_plate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Mano is a highly popular and iconic landmark in Punta del Este, praised for its unique artistic appeal and beautiful beachside location. Visitors enjoy it as a prime photo opportunity and a great spot to take in ocean views. While it can get crowded, the surrounding amenities and the overall scenic beauty make it a worthwhile visit for most.
"Nice Photo location. Depending on the day it can be super windy and also a lot of people will be in line for making pictures. You have a good view of the beach!"
Isabela
"Fun sculpture in a beautiful section of punta del Este. Busy at most times it seems. Fantastic views of the surf and beach. Really beautiful here."
MarcB
"Is a visit to “the Fingers” touristy and overcrowded? Yes. Is it also a must-do when in Punte del Este? Absolutely. Go, take a selfie and give the world the peace symbol or whatever finger fits your mood."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Mano is located on Playa Brava, a very accessible beach in Punta del Este. You can reach it easily by car, taxi, or local bus. Many visitors also walk or bike along the coast if staying nearby. Parking is usually available, but can be busy during peak season.
Yes, La Mano is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Punta del Este and is very easy to find on Playa Brava. It's a central point of interest for most visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no ticket required to visit La Mano. It's a public sculpture on the beach, so you can visit and take photos freely.
La Mano is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor sculpture on the beach. However, the best times to visit for photography and fewer crowds are during daylight hours, especially early morning or late afternoon.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best lighting and fewer people, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create beautiful, dramatic shots. Be prepared for potential wind which can affect photo stability.
Experiment with different angles! Getting close to the sculpture, shooting from the beach, or even from the water (if you're brave!) can offer unique perspectives. Capturing the sculpture with the ocean as a backdrop is classic.
Visiting during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) is your best bet. If it's crowded, you can try creative framing or focus on details of the sculpture itself.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes located near Playa Brava, within walking distance of La Mano. You can find options ranging from casual beachside eateries to more upscale dining.
While there aren't dedicated dining facilities directly on the sand at La Mano, you can bring your own snacks or purchase food from nearby vendors and enjoy it on the beach. Remember to clean up after yourself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Influencers
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artist and the Art
This artwork is not unique to Punta del Este; similar 'hand' sculptures by Irarrázabal can be found in other locations, such as the Atacama Desert in Chile and Madrid, Spain. However, the Punta del Este version is arguably the most famous and frequently visited. Its popularity has made it a quintessential photo opportunity for tourists visiting the Uruguayan coast.
Experiencing Playa Brava
Beyond the sculpture, visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shore, admire the ocean views, and observe local life. The area surrounding Playa Brava is also home to various amenities, including shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a day trip or a longer stay. The beach itself can get quite busy, especially during the summer months, but its vastness allows for finding quieter spots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit