Argentina is a country that conjures up many images, from the beautiful tango to tasty Argentine beef, from the art and culture of Buenos Aires to the raw, rugged beauty of Patagonia.
But what many don't factor in are some of South America's best beaches.
Whether it's a beach pulsing with excitement, shops and cafes, or something more off-the-beaten path, Aerolineas Argentinas delivers you to these waves of paradise.
Here's what we think are the five best beaches in the country.
Mar del Plata. Known as the "Happy City," Mar del Plata is the place to be and be seen come summer. When the weather turns warm, its population swells as more than 6 million beach-goers, many of them residents of Buenos Aires, migrate to its more than 10 miles of beaches to beat the heat. Like all large seaside cities, Mar del Plata offers a range of beaches, from the popular Playa Bristol - which, thanks to its proximity to the city's downtown, is one of the most crowded - to Punta Mogotes, which tends to be more relaxed and better suited to families.
Puerto Madryn. While not offering up a beach vacation in the typical sense of the phrase, a visit to Puerto Madryn anytime from June to December is sure to be spectacular. Known for being one of Patagonia's primary tourist destinations, it is the gateway to the Valdes Peninsula. Here, visitors can go whale watching, see one of the world's largest colonies of Magellanic penguins, and even snorkel with sea lions. Interestingly enough, the area has ties to Wales, as settlers from the region came to Argentina in the late 1800s, so don't miss a visit to a Welsh tea house.
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Pinamar and Cariló. Along the Atlantic Coast, between Mar del Plata and Buenos Aires, are smaller resort beaches that tend to attract the locals. Situated in stunning pine forests, these laid-back resorts are ideal for families and those looking to escape the heat and the crowds. Fear not, being away from the crowds of Mar del Plata doesn't mean sacrificing anything. Luxury spas, boutique hotels and shopping abound. The planned city of Pinamar offers lovely homes and gardens and is slightly more exclusive than the average beach town, but for a true luxury beach stay a visit to Cariló is in order.
Costanera Norte. While not a seaside beach, the Costanera Norte offers everything the ocean does and maybe even a bit more. Located along the Parana River and in the city of Rosario, lies a 3-mile stretch of beach where visitors can swim and take in the sun, and also enjoy cafes, beach volleyball courts, bars and more.
Pehuén Có. Not everyone wants a seaside boardwalk, and for those who truly want to get away from it all, there is Pehuén Có, where sandy beaches abound and tourists, cafes and souvenir shops are hard if not impossible to come by. Located along the Bahia Blanca, this deserted strip of beach is the place for adventure travelers.
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