When people think of São Paulo, Brazil, they often picture a sprawling metropolis filled with skyscrapers, bustling streets, and a vibrant cultural scene. However, a question frequently comes to mind for some foreigners upon landing in the city: Is there a beach in São Paulo? While the capital is indeed an inland city without its own beaches, the state of São Paulo offers beachgoers an exciting array of coastal destinations to explore. Just a short drive or bus ride away from the city, São Paulo’s beaches provide the perfect escape for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of Brazil’s coastline.
Getting To The Beaches Near The City of São Paulo
If you’re planning to visit a beach in São Paulo, it’s highly recommended to rent a car to navigate the scenic coastline of the state. This will give you the flexibility to explore and visit the best spots at your own pace, allowing you to make the most of your beach getaway. Whether you’re looking to discover hidden gems or popular attractions, it will make your trip more convenient and enjoyable.
Guarujá
Distance from São Paulo: Approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles)
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours by car
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Guarujá stands out as one of the most sought-after coastal destinations among São Paulo residents, thanks to its close proximity and convenient accessibility. Boasting a diverse array of beaches catering to every preference, from lively and bustling to serene and secluded, Guarujá presents itself as an ideal retreat from the urban rush, offering the perfect opportunity to bask in the sun and soak in the sea.
Where To Stay in Guarujá
From beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses, Guarujá offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every preference. If you’re planning to stay at Pitangueiras Beach with its lively atmosphere and plenty of shopping options along its beachfront promenade, consider the Ferraretto Guarujá Hotel & Spa or this lovely flat with ample facilities. If you’re seeking a more tranquil setting at Pernambuco Beach, there are two great hotel options in the area: Guest House Guarujá Hotel Boutique or Hotel Jequitimar Guaruja Resort & Spa by Accor.
Beaches to Explore in Guarujá
- Pitangueiras Beach: A lively beach with a bustling promenade filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
- Asturias Beach: A quieter alternative to Pitangueiras, Asturias Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere with calm waters, making it perfect for families.
- Tombo Beach: Known for its excellent surfing conditions, Tombo Beach attracts surfers from all over Brazil and beyond. The stunning cliffs and rock formations make it a picturesque spot for beachgoers.
- Pernambuco Beach: A secluded beach with pristine sands and clear waters, Pernambuco Beach offers a tranquil setting away from the crowds. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Activities and Attractions in Guarujá
Aside from sunbathing and swimming, Guarujá offers a variety of activities to keep visitors entertained.
- Water Sports: With its excellent surf conditions, Guarujá is a haven for surfers. Lessons and equipment rentals are available for those looking to catch some waves.
- Hiking and Nature Trails: The surrounding hills and forests offer numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of the coastline. It’s a great way to explore the natural beauty of Guarujá.
- Shopping and Dining: Guarujá’s vibrant promenades are lined with shops, boutiques, and restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood or gourmet fare, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Riviera de São Lourenço
Distance from São Paulo: Approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles)
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours by car
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Riviera de São Lourenço is a prestigious beach destination known for its upscale atmosphere. Located within easy reach of the city of São Paulo, it offers an exclusive beach experience that combines natural beauty with modern amenities, making it a favorite among those seeking a refined seaside getaway.
Where To Stay in Riviera de São Lourenço
Riviera de São Lourenço mainly boasts apartments rented seasonally and managed by private hosts. You won’t find many hotel options in the area, which makes it more exclusive to those who own beach apartments around there. If you’re planning a getaway to Riviera de São Lourenço, try staying at this beautiful apartment just a few steps from the beach.
Beaches to Explore in Riviera de São Lourenço
- Riviera Beach: The main beach in Riviera de São Lourenço is a pristine stretch of golden sand backed by upscale resorts and beachfront properties. This meticulously maintained beach offers a range of amenities, including loungers, umbrellas, and beach bars, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and indulgence.
- Juquehy Beach: Just a short drive from Riviera de São Lourenço, Juquehy Beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere with its charming village vibe. The beach is lined with coconut palms and dotted with rustic beach bars and restaurants, providing a relaxed setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside dining.
- Camburi Beach: Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty, Camburi Beach is a hidden gem located near Riviera de São Lourenço. The beach is surrounded by lush Atlantic rainforest, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature while enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.
Activities and Attractions in Riviera de São Lourenço
Aside from sunbathing and swimming, Riviera de São Lourenço offers a variety of activities to keep visitors entertained.
- Water Sports: The calm waters of Riviera Beach are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Equipment rentals are available on the beach, making it easy for visitors to try out different water sports.
- Golf Courses: Riviera de São Lourenço is home to some nice golf courses, offering challenging layouts and stunning ocean views. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf while soaking up the scenic surroundings.
- Shopping and Dining: The Riviera Shopping Center is a popular destination for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy. The center offers a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.
Ilhabela
Distance from São Paulo: Approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles)
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours by car and ferry
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Ilhabela, meaning “Beautiful Island” in Portuguese, lives up to its name as a tropical paradise nestled off the coast of São Paulo. Accessible by ferry, this stunning island boasts over 40 pristine beaches, captivating waterfalls, and lush rainforests, making it a haven for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
Where To Stay in Ilhabela
Ilhabela offers a variety of dining options, from beachside shacks serving fresh seafood to upscale restaurants offering gourmet cuisine. The island also boasts a range of accommodations, including beachfront resorts, cozy guesthouses, and eco-friendly lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Hotel Vila Kebaya, DPNY Beach Hotel & SPA Ilhabela, and Wyndham Ilhabela Casa Di Sirena are some great alternatives for your stay.
Beaches to Explore in Ilhabela
- Bonete Beach: A remote and untouched beach accessible by boat or a challenging hiking trail, Bonete Beach offers breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
- Curral Beach: One of Ilhabela’s most popular beaches, Curral Beach offers golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a range of beach bars and restaurants, making it perfect for sunbathing and beachside dining.
- Castelhanos Beach: Renowned for its powerful waves, Castelhanos Beach is a favorite among surfers. The beach is surrounded by lush rainforest, offering visitors a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty.
- Praia do Jabaquara: A tranquil beach with calm waters and picturesque views, Praia do Jabaquara is ideal for families and those looking to relax away from the crowds.
Activities and Attractions in Ilhabela
- Snorkeling and Diving: The crystal-clear waters of Ilhabela are perfect for snorkeling and diving, allowing visitors to explore vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs.
- Hiking and Waterfall Tours: The island’s lush rainforests are home to numerous hiking trails and stunning waterfalls, offering opportunities for adventure and exploration.
- Sailing and Boat Tours: With its scenic coastline and secluded coves, Ilhabela is a popular destination for sailing and boat tours, allowing visitors to discover hidden gems and pristine beaches.
Ubatuba
Distance from São Paulo: Approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles)
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours by car
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Ubatuba, located on São Paulo’s northern coast, is a gem celebrated for its extraordinary biodiversity, stunning beaches, and lush Atlantic rainforest. With over 100 beaches to explore, Ubatuba offers a paradise for sun-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and water sports aficionados alike.
Where To Stay in Ubatuba
Ubatuba boasts a range of accommodations, including beachfront hotels, eco-friendly lodges, and budget-friendly guesthouses. Catalina Hotel is a standout accommodation in the area.
Beaches to Explore in Ubatuba
Praia Grande: One of Ubatuba’s most popular beaches, Praia Grande boasts golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a range of water sports activities, including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.
Itamambuca Beach: A favorite among surfers, Itamambuca Beach offers excellent waves and a stunning natural setting surrounded by lush rainforest. The beach hosts international surfing competitions and provides opportunities for both experienced surfers and beginners to catch some waves.
Félix Beach: Alluring visitors with its emerald-green waters, white sands, and dramatic cliffs, Félix Beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside picnics.
Praia do Bonete: Accessible by boat or a challenging hiking trail, Praia do Bonete is a secluded beach that offers untouched beauty and a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Activities and Attractions in Ubatuba
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Ubatuba’s clear waters are teeming with marine life, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and even shipwrecks.
- Hiking and Nature Trails: The surrounding Atlantic rainforest offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of waterfalls, mountains, and the coastline. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in nature and discover the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
- Tamar Project: Ubatuba is home to the Tamar Project, a sea turtle conservation initiative. Visitors can learn about the conservation efforts and even participate in guided tours to witness these magnificent creatures up close.
Maresias
Distance from São Paulo: Approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles)
Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours by car
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Maresias is a coastal paradise renowned for its pristine sands, incredible waves, and vibrant beach scene. Located on São Paulo’s northern coast, this trendy beach town offers a lively atmosphere, making it a favorite destination among surfers, beach lovers, and those seeking a laid-back coastal escape.
Where To Stay in Maresias
From beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses and surf camps, Maresias offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury amenities, or a unique surfing experience, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from in this beach town. Duke Beach Hotel Maresias is a great place to stay, just a few steps from the beach.
Beaches to Explore in Maresias
Maresias Beach: The main attraction of the town, Maresias Beach boasts a long stretch of golden sand, clear waters, and excellent surfing conditions. The beach is lined with beach bars, restaurants, and surf schools, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Paúba Beach: A quieter alternative to Maresias Beach, Paúba Beach offers a more relaxed setting with its tranquil waters and picturesque landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for families and those looking to unwind away from the crowds.
Santiago Beach: Known for its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves, Santiago Beach offers breathtaking views and a more secluded beach experience. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the beauty of the coastline.
Activities and Attractions in Maresias
- Surfing: Maresias is considered one of Brazil’s premier surfing destinations, with consistent swells that attract surfers from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the beach offers waves suitable for all skill levels.
- Hiking and Nature Trails: The surrounding hills and forests provide numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline. It’s a great way to explore the natural beauty of Maresias and discover hidden gems along the way.
- Waterfalls and Natural Pools: Maresias is home to several waterfalls and natural pools, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the beach. It’s a perfect opportunity to cool off and reconnect with nature.
So, is there a beach in São Paulo? As you can see, there is no lack of great options in the state of São Paulo. While the capital of São Paulo may not be a coastal city, its proximity to Guarujá and Riviera de São Lourenço provides beach-lovers with an opportunity to experience Brazil’s stunning coastline without straying too far from the city. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, enjoy water sports, or simply relax and unwind, there’s surely a beach in São Paulo state waiting for you!
