As the summer sun finally graces the shores of Mar del Plata, the city is buzzing with activity, drawing in tourists eager to soak up the warmth. During the first half of January 2025, approximately 70% of the city’s hotel and alternative accommodations have been filled, with visitors typically staying for four to five days.
The second weekend of the month saw a significant influx of visitors, with over 2,500 cars per hour heading to the coast via Routes 2 and 11. This surge in arrivals coincided with a welcome rise in temperatures, reaching over 30 degrees Celsius.
Local tourism operators are optimistic about the season. While they acknowledge that this year may not be a record-breaking one, the sentiment is that it is far from disappointing. Many describe the current situation as “regular” or “good,” reflecting a steady demand across hotels, restaurants, and beach resorts.
Families choosing Mar del Plata this summer are enjoying an average stay of four to five days. The demand for central apartments is high, with properties quickly re-renting after guests depart. Hotels are experiencing stable occupancy rates, with minimal differences between weekdays and weekends.
According to Hernán Szkrohal from the Hotel and Gastronomic Business Association, the city is currently maintaining a steady 70% occupancy rate. “There are variations depending on the type of accommodation and the groups they cater to,” he explained, noting that occupancy dips slightly during the week but picks up on weekends.
The non-hotel sector mirrors this trend. Guillermo Rossi, president of the College of Real Estate Agents, reported that expectations were met as tourism increased after the holiday season. “This weekend is surpassing the 70% mark, and we believe this trend will continue,” he said.
Beach resorts are experiencing even higher occupancy rates, with some reporting averages of 85% due to improved weather conditions. Juan Salvi, a beach concessionaire, noted, “This weekend has brought a lot of people to our city, and we expect peak numbers today.”
The pleasant weather has encouraged more visitors to the beaches, while cloudy days see a shift in crowds towards commercial and dining areas. “The weather plays a crucial role in tourism projections,” Szkrohal added. “If conditions stabilize, it will influence visitors’ decisions to come.”
Looking ahead to the second half of January, there is a shared optimism among tourism operators. Historical trends suggest that the latter half of the month often outperforms the first. While the current season has not garnered overwhelming praise, the general sentiment remains positive, with expectations for increased occupancy and visitor numbers.