El Emir

El Emir is a beach and reef break that produces both left and right-hand waves, with a notable left-hand point break forming near a submerged wreck. The break is known for hollow, fast waves that typically range from under a foot to six feet or larger. It requires intermediate to advanced skills and is best during autumn and winter months, particularly June, when southern swells combine with north-northwest winds for the most favorable conditions. The narrow bank-dependent nature of the beach means wave quality fluctuates considerably.

El Emir has served as the primary venue for Uruguay's national surf championships, establishing itself as the country's competitive hub. The spot regularly hosts major events including the Toyota Full Moon Festival, an annual nighttime championship where Uruguayan champions like Sebastián Olarte have earned multiple national titles. The beach has maintained consistent competitive activity over at least the past decade.

Located on the Atlantic-facing side of Punta del Este's peninsula, El Emir is an urban beach with easy access via buses, local roads, and a nearby paid parking lot. The break is known to draw heavy crowds and remains the preferred local spot for regular surfers who want consistent, accessible waves without traveling to more remote breaks like Montoya.