Laid-back surfer hostel in Punta del Diablo steps from the beach. Dorm rooms, hammocks, communal kitchen, and bonfire area create relaxed vibe. Surf lessons and board rentals available. Young, social atmosphere.
La Casa del Diablo Hostel stands on Calle de la Virgen in Punta del Diablo, a rustic beachside village on Uruguay's northeastern Atlantic coast near the Brazilian border, roughly 300 km from Montevideo. The village retains a low-key fishing settlement character despite growing popularity among backpackers and surfers; the electricity supply can be intermittent, there are no ATMs, and most businesses operate on cash only. The hostel is steps from Playa del Diablo, a long crescent-shaped beach with consistent left and right breaks that attract surfers of beginner to advanced level from late October through April.
Accommodation consists of mixed dormitories in wooden bungalow-style structures sleeping four to eight guests, with hammock sleeping also available on covered porches for the most budget-conscious travellers. A small number of private double rooms with shared bathroom are available for couples. The communal kitchen is the social centre of the property during meal times; gas burners, a basic refrigerator, and cooking equipment are provided, and a morning market on the main street sells fresh fish, vegetables, and bread.
A fire pit area is used for evening bonfires throughout the season, and the atmosphere is consistently informal and social. The hostel arranges introductory surf lessons with a local instructor and rents soft-top foam boards by the hour or day; a selection of shortboards, fins, and wetsuits for cooler water are also available. Wi-Fi is provided via satellite connection and can be unreliable during stormy weather — the property is intentionally low-tech.
Parque Nacional Santa Teresa, one of Uruguay's largest protected coastal areas, begins at the northern edge of the village and offers hiking, camping, and a historical fortress.
Amenities
- kitchen
- bonfire area
- surf rentals
- free wifi
- hammocks
Location
Calle de la Virgen, Punta del Diablo, Uruguay
-34.0050, -53.5470 View on map
Highlights
- Direct access to Playa del Diablo's surf breaks with board rental and introductory lessons available on site
- Fire pit and social bungalow atmosphere in a genuine fishing-village setting far from resort-style tourism
- Gateway to Parque Nacional Santa Teresa, Uruguay's primary coastal national park, minutes from the hostel
Tips for visiting
- Bring cash in Uruguayan pesos; Punta del Diablo has no ATMs and card readers at local businesses are unreliable
- Electricity cuts are common in peak season — charge devices and power banks fully before arriving
- The village gets crowded in late January and early February; book two to three weeks in advance for those peak dates
When to visit
November to April for surf and beach season. January–February is peak with maximum activity. March and April offer good surf with fewer crowds.
Accessibility
Bungalow structures have steps and uneven ground. Not suitable for wheelchair users. The beach involves soft sand terrain.