The “hand emerging from the sand” is more than just a Netflix sculpture!

The most famous attraction in the Uruguayan seaside town of Punta del Este is the “hand sticking out of the sand”, which is the first thing many people think of. Many people have seen it on social media: five giant gray fingers poking out of the golden sand, with the Atlantic waves in the background, it's so cool to look at and so visually striking to take pictures of. But in fact, this sculpture called The Hand is not only a photo mecca, but also the beginning of a story.

Many people think it's just some kind of “whim” of the artist, but it actually has a special meaning. 1982, the Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal was invited to participate in the International Sculpture Congress in Punta del Este, the theme of which was “The Place of Man in Nature”. The theme was “Man's Place in Nature”. He completed this work in just six days. He used cement, metal and plastic, with the aim of making it “like a human being, able to withstand the wind and rain”.

The hand is not just for the sake of “unique shape”, but also symbolizes the smallness and struggle of human beings in the face of the forces of nature. As you look at it half-buried in the sand, you will subconsciously associate it with “someone struggling to call for help”, and some people say it is like a reminder that the sea, although beautiful, is also dangerous. The deeper meaning is that it is hoped that those of us who look at the scenery, do not forget the earth under our feet and the nature behind.

The sculpture is quiet, but the tourists keep coming: the hottest place to take photos by the sea.

The Hand is located right on Brava Beach, the most lively part of Punta del Este, and the location is just too easy to find. You just have to walk to the entrance of the beach on the Brava side, and it's basically impossible to miss - even if you don't look at the map, follow the crowd, and see a bunch of people taking pictures of a bunch of fingers, then you're there.

This beach has the rough waves of Brava on one side and the calm and pleasant Mansa Beach on the other. Both sides are crowded, but the Brava side is especially busy all year round because of the sculpture. There are people taking tourist photos, wedding photos, promos, art photos, parody videos, whatever. You can even see people pretending to be grabbed by the “finger”, some people stand on the palm of the hand right above the balance of action, how to take pictures can be, how to play are funny.

The sculpture itself is small enough that it's forbidden to walk up from the foot (some people still sneak up), but it's okay to get close enough to take pictures and walk around it. Morning and evening are the best times to take photos, with soft sunlight and just the right amount of sea breeze. If you can catch the sunrise, the feeling of the light hitting your fingers is especially stunning, like a silent ceremony.

The neighborhood is full of amenities, so you don't have to worry about “coming and staying”.

As a popular spot in Punta del Este, the facilities in the area are really “up to scratch”. There is a parking lot nearby, and although you have to scramble for a spot during the peak season, it's pretty easy to find. The main street is just a short walk away, with food stalls, ice cream parlors, cafes, convenience stores, and souvenir stalls, so whether you want to grab a bite to eat or buy a hat, sunglasses, or flip-flops on the fly, you'll be able to do it all.

There are also makeshift showers and changing huts on the beach side. Especially in summer, many people come from the city by bike or on foot, get in the water, play around, take a shower and go back. There are also umbrellas and chairs for rent, which aren't exactly cheap, but are still quite convenient for tourists.

If you are planning to stay for the whole day, why don't you just rent a spot by Brava Beach, sunbathe, take in the sea breeze, watch this sculpture slowly change color in the sun, and then take pictures along the way. From here, you can also walk to Mansa Beach for a change of atmosphere, where the waves are smaller and more suitable for playing in the water.

And don't underestimate the location of this “hand”, it's basically on the edge of the city center of Punta del Este, so you don't have to drive to the outskirts of the city. It's just a twenty-minute walk from the bus stop in the center of town. If you're too lazy to walk, it's easy to call an Uber.

Don't skip these tips for a more fun and relaxing photo shoot!

Avoid the crowds: 7-9am and after 5pm are the prime times to take photos, not only is the light good, but there are also relatively few people. At noon that time crowded, shooting what are all heads.

Pay attention to the windy sand fly: Brava Beach this side of the wind, wear a hat remember to fasten, take pictures of the camera and cell phone is best to have sand protection. Especially in windy weather, sand is really “can paste your face”.

Don't step on the sculpture: Although many people climb up to take photos, but the official is actually prohibited. The main reason for this is the fear of damage and falling, especially on rainy days or when the beach is slippery.

Bring brightly colored clothes: if you want to shoot a blockbuster feeling, it is recommended to wear red, yellow or blue system, and the sculpture's gray tone and the sand's golden contrast, the effect is particularly good.

Take a side trip: If you're here, why don't you stop by the Punta del Este harbor, the lighthouse, the art museum, the casino, etc.? The city is not big, but everywhere is exquisite and different styles, not boring at all.

Note the high season prices: December to February is the high season and prices go up for everything, including food, lodging and transportation. If you don't like crowds, come in March or November, the weather will still be great and the cost will be much cheaper.

The Hand is not just a “Netflix spot”, it's actually more of a city card, or even a way of greeting Uruguayan tourists from all over the world. It's not the kind of attraction that you just look at and then leave, take a picture of and then forget about it, but rather the kind of place that when you take a picture of it, you think, “Eh, this place is kind of interesting”. It may look like a simple installation, but behind it lies Uruguayans' respect for nature, their passion for life, and an aesthetic that is not ostentatious but has substance. If you are planning to come to Uruguay, no matter if you like sunbathing on the beach, want to experience the South American seaside flavor, or simply want to take some interesting photos, this place is definitely worth stopping. Here, the sea breeze will gently tap you on the shoulder, and that big hand looks like it's beckoning to you, telling you, “It's nice here, you can take your time.”