Las Canteras Beach and El Doradillo, scenarios of whales and absolute relaxation

Awarded among the top 10 beaches in South America in TripAdvisor's 2024 Travellers' Choice, these fabulous resorts in Puerto Madryn, located in the province of Chubut, in the heart of Argentine Patagonia, offer you the chance to enjoy the sun and sea surrounded by calm and southern whispers.

"Beaches in Patagonia? Is that real?" Any tourist might ask these questions. The southernmost region of Argentina is indeed associated with cold, wind, and snow. However, beyond the low temperatures for much of the year, the summer presents pleasant climates ideal for - why not? - taking a seaside getaway.

Nature in Puerto Madryn

The province of Chubut is one of the six that make up the Patagonia region. On the eastern side of its territory lies an extensive coastline, with Puerto Madryn as its main resort town, famous for being an ideal destination for whale watching. Just a few minutes from downtown Madryn is the El Doradillo Protected Natural Area (ANP), "a place for the conservation of biodiversity that offers us the opportunity to encounter wildlife," says María Cabrera, Director of Conservation for the municipality of Puerto Madryn.

TripAdvisor Award-Winning Beaches

Within the El Doradillo ANP, Las Canteras Beach and El Doradillo Beach stand out. Both received the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice award for being among the top 10 beaches in South America - they ranked 4th and 6th, respectively. Among their pristine sands and the Patagonian mystique, these destinations are ideal for up-close encounters with the famous southern right whale.

When is the best time for whale watching in Puerto Madryn?

In June, southern right whales, known for the callosities on their heads, arrive on the shores of Chubut province, where they remain until the end of the year to reproduce. The months with the most whale sightings in Puerto Madryn are from August to November.

How to get to El Doradillo

Departing from the city of Puerto Madryn heading north on Av. Kenneth Woodley, which becomes Provincial Route 1. Then, travel 11 kilometers until turning east onto Provincial Route 2. From there, it's nearly 20 kilometers straight until reaching the junction with Provincial Route 42. There, head south for 5 kilometers, then west for 14 kilometers to reach Las Canteras. Shortly after, you'll reach El Doradillo.

Typically, you leave Madryn via Route 1 and soon turn northeast onto Route 42. It's a little over 5 kilometers to reach El Doradillo and 11 to Las Canteras. Currently, Route 42 is under construction and not passable.

What to know before going to El Doradillo and Las Canteras Beach?

The Protected Natural Area can be visited year-round. Las Canteras Beach has a park ranger operations center. There are chemical toilets, and park rangers are present from 8 am to 8 pm. Here you'll also find informative and environmental interpretation signage, boardwalks for people with reduced mobility, seating for resting, and USB ports for charging phones. There are no dining facilities, so it's advisable to bring your own food for the day and remember to take your trash with you.

For those wishing to stay overnight, camping is only allowed at the first, second, and third access points of El Doradillo Beach. All water activities such as surfing, kitesurfing, diving, and sailing, among others, are permitted from December to March, outside the whale season. "During the season, the area is specifically designated to protect the southern right whale, so no activity that could interfere with the whales in the water is allowed," Cabrera informs, adding that kitesurfing is permitted at Bañuls Beach, very close to Las Canteras.

Another important note is that fires cannot be built directly on the ground. Only designated fire pits at Bañuls Beach, Casino Beach, El Doradillo (second access point), and Manara Beach can be used.

Climate in Puerto Madryn

Generally, it has a temperate desert climate, with warm summers and cool winters. In summer (December to February), average temperatures range from 17°C to 25°C, while in winter (June to August), average temperatures vary between 5°C and 14°C. The city receives little precipitation throughout the year, with more frequent rainfall in winter.

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