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Reserva de Lobos Marinos: A Coastal Spectacle

Observe a colony of South American sea lions up close at this unique and free nature reserve in Mar del Plata's bustling port.

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The Reserva de Lobos Marinos del Puerto de Mar del Plata is a unique nature preserve located on the southern breakwater. It's home to a colony of South American sea lions, easily observed in their natural habitat year-round, making it a must-see attraction in Mar del Plata.

A brief summary to Reserva de lobos marinos del puerto de Mar del Plata

  • Escollera Sur, Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires Province, AR
  • Visit website
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring a camera to capture the sea lions' playful interactions and impressive size.
  • Be prepared for a strong smell, as the sea lions are in their natural habitat.
  • Visit during the week to avoid larger crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the port to see the fishing boats and enjoy fresh seafood.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Playa Bristol, walk south along the coast on Avenida Luro. Continue until you reach the intersection with Avenida Constitución. Continue straight until you reach the coast. Turn left and walk along the shoreline for approximately 20 minutes until you reach Escollera Sur. The reserve is located at the end of the breakwater. This is a scenic walk with ocean views.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center (Plaza Colón), head to the nearest bus stop and take bus line 221 or 222 towards 'Escollera Sur'. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop named 'Escollera Sur'. Once you get off, walk approximately 5 minutes towards the coast, where you will find the reserve. A single bus fare is approximately ARS 50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Mar del Plata. Inform the driver you want to go to 'Reserva de Lobos Marinos' at 'Escollera Sur'. The ride will take around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. The estimated cost is ARS 4,164 for an 8km ride.

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Discover more about Reserva de lobos marinos del puerto de Mar del Plata

Located on the Escollera Sur (southern breakwater) of Mar del Plata's bustling port, the Reserva de Lobos Marinos offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens). This unique reserve is home exclusively to male sea lions, numbering around 800 during non-breeding seasons. These impressive creatures haul out on the rocks, offering visitors the chance to observe their behaviors from a surprisingly close distance. The sea lion colony has become an integral part of Mar del Plata's identity. The reserve was created to protect these animals, and in 1994, the species was declared a Natural Monument of Mar del Plata. Historically, sea lions inhabited much of the coastline, but as the city grew, they were gradually displaced, finding refuge in the port area. Today, they coexist with the fishing industry, often scavenging scraps from the fishing boats. Visitors can stroll along the renovated pathway on the breakwater, complete with balconies and viewpoints, providing excellent photo opportunities. The air is filled with the sounds of barking sea lions and the salty smell of the ocean, creating an immersive sensory experience. While the smell can be strong, it's a small price to pay for witnessing these magnificent animals in their natural environment. The reserve is open year-round and is free to visit, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all.

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