Fodor's Expert Review Playa Brava

The golden sand and numerous food stands here draw a young crowd that mostly stays on the beach rather than braving the rough water (brava means "rough"). Brava is one of the most frequented beaches—largely thanks to La Mano de Punta del Este, a giant sculpture with the fingers of an enormous hand appearing to reach out of the sand—where many visitors will surely be snapping photos. This work by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal gives the beach its colloquial name, Playa de los Dedos (Beach of the Fingers). Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; sunset; walking.