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Beach · La Paloma, Rocha
Playa La Balconada
Open-sea beach west of La Paloma's lighthouse, where locals and tourists often gather late in the afternoon to watch the sun set over the sea and applaud.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Playa La Balconada
La Balconada is one of the most popular beaches in La Paloma. It lies west of Cabo Santa María, facing the open sea, with wide sand and waves that vary with the wind. It is also where an old resort custom takes place: late in the afternoon, people gather on the beach to watch the sun set over the sea and applaud when it disappears.
The town has about 20 km of beaches, and each has its own character. El Cabito, next to the cape, usually has calmer water and appeals to families with small children. Los Botes and Bahía Grande are on the bay side; Bahía Grande has accessibility facilities. To the east, La Aguada and Costa Azul form a long stretch of sand.
La Paloma's coastline offers surf conditions throughout the year. Fishing is also part of the scene: at the end of the day artisanal fishermen arrive with nets of corvina, sole and other fish.
In summer there are lifeguards on some beaches and beach kiosks serving food and drinks. Out of season, the waterfront is almost empty and the south wind can be strong.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
An evening for the sunset; all day if it's for going to the beach.
Best time
From December to March, when the sea is more pleasant and services are open. Sunset is the busiest time, especially in January and February. On south-wind days, the bay's beaches are usually more sheltered.
How to get there
It's about 1 km west of the lighthouse, following the shore on foot or by car from La Paloma's historic center.
Tip
Arrive before sunset to find a spot on the sand or the bluff. To swim, respect the lifeguards' flags; for small children, El Cabito is usually the calmer option.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Playa La Balconada
Why do people applaud the sunset at La Balconada?
It's an old custom of those who visit La Paloma: at the end of the day, people gather on the beach and applaud when the sun disappears into the sea.
Is La Balconada good for children?
It faces the open sea, with variable waves. For small children, El Cabito, beside the cape, is usually the calmer option.
Is there surfing in La Paloma?
Yes. The town's coastline has surfable conditions year-round, with waves that vary depending on the wind.
What other beaches are there in La Paloma?
El Cabito, Los Botes, Bahía Grande, La Aguada, Costa Azul and Anaconda, among others, with profiles ranging from calm water to strong surf.