Swimming at Playa Isla Martillo is extremely dangerous and not permitted. The Beagle Channel waters are dangerously cold year-round (4-9°C), creating severe hypothermia risks within minutes. Swimming is also prohibited to protect the Magellanic and Gentoo penguin colonies that make this island famous. Visitors must maintain respectful distances from wildlife as part of conservation regulations. Tours are carefully supervised with strict rules about beach access. The beach experience focuses entirely on penguin observation and photography. All visitors should wear warm, layered clothing as weather conditions can be harsh even during summer months.

The best time for penguin viewing at Isla Martillo is from November through March, when Magellanic and Gentoo penguins are present during their breeding season. Peak activity occurs December through February when you'll see nesting pairs, eggs, and chicks. November marks penguin arrival and nest building, while March sees them preparing to depart. Tours operate primarily during these months. October and April are transition periods with fewer birds. Winter months (April-October) see penguins migrate away, and tours typically don't operate. Book tours well in advance for peak summer season as visitor numbers are controlled to protect the colony.

Access to Playa Isla Martillo is strictly through authorized tour operators departing from Ushuaia. You cannot visit independently. Tours involve a boat crossing of the Beagle Channel lasting 1-2 hours, sometimes combined with a land approach via Harberton Ranch for certain packages. Only licensed companies with permits can bring visitors to the penguin colony, and group sizes are limited for conservation. Tours must be booked in advance through operators in Ushuaia. Some packages include Harberton estancia visit. The crossing depends on weather and sea conditions, which can cause cancellations. Expect to spend 4-6 hours total on most excursions.

There are no facilities on Isla Martillo itself. All accommodation and dining must be arranged in Ushuaia, which offers comprehensive options from budget hostels to upscale hotels. The city has excellent restaurants specializing in king crab, Patagonian lamb, and fresh seafood. Most penguin tours include lunch or refreshments, either on the boat or at Harberton Ranch if your tour includes the estancia. Bring water and snacks for the excursion. Ushuaia's tourism infrastructure is well-developed given its role as a gateway to Antarctica and Tierra del Fuego National Park. Book accommodation early during peak summer season (December-February).

Strict regulations protect the penguin colony. Visitors must stay on marked paths and maintain designated distances from penguins (typically 2-3 meters, though penguins may approach you). Touching, feeding, or disturbing penguins is absolutely prohibited. Group sizes are limited and visit duration is controlled. Photography is allowed but without flash. Guides accompany all groups and enforce rules strictly. Drones are prohibited. You must follow instructions precisely to minimize disturbance to breeding birds. These regulations ensure sustainable tourism while protecting one of Argentina's most important penguin colonies. Violations can result in tour termination without refund and potential legal consequences.