Answer
Yes, you can see whales near Punta del Este: from July to October, animals that come to breed can be spotted in these waters. This is a seasonal natural feature of the coast, not a year-round guarantee.
This refers to the southern right whale, which reaches almost 15 metres in length and weighs up to 60 tonnes. Its size makes an encounter impressive even when it is observed from a distance, especially if you are lucky enough to see one from shore or during a boat trip.
This species was among those most affected by human hunting, so it should be observed from a respectful distance. The best approach is to plan a trip during the season without building the entire itinerary around a guaranteed sighting: the sea remains unpredictable.