With the opening in 1965 of the bridge over the Maldonado stream connecting La Barra with Punta del Este, the town began to take on its current character as an upscale seaside resort. Various developments comprising the so-called coastal country estates, plots of at least five hectares, have been established both along National Route No. 10, which runs through the resort, and along Route No. 104, which connects it to Route No. 9 farther north. These properties are being purchased for the construction of mansions for international jet-set figures.
The beach west of Manantiales is known as Playa Bikini and is one of the busiest during the summer season. The beach to the east is known as Playa El Chorro. Farther west, adjacent to La Barra, is Playa Montoya.
Internal reference: Tera-40146
