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8 of the best beach towns in Brazil


3 min read
26 February
Outdoor & nature
Beaches

There’s no shortage of beaches along the Brazilian coastline and the towns that border them deserve just as much attention. 

Restful and remote, this article covers eight of the best beach towns in Brazil – get ready for a tranquil escape. 

Paraty, Rio de Janeiro

If you’re looking for one of the best beach towns in Brazil, Paraty is an excellent place to explore.

Buildings complete the landscape here with latticed windows. Doorways are also adorned with colourful trim, lining the picturesque waterfront.

Take one of the available boat tours, before sailing off to the quiet coves and secluded beaches of Praia da Lula for some relaxation and snorkelling. 

While it’s easy to spend your days out on the water, Paraty is just as charming when you’re on a stroll. Explore the maze of cobblestone streets that weave through the town.

A sandy beach in Paraty, with gentle waves lapping at the shore under a clear blue sky
Admire the golden sands of Paraty

Trancoso, Bahia

Perched on Bahia’s UNESCO-protected shores, this Brazilian beach town can be found amongst a dense tropical forest. 

This 16th-century town is home to adobe houses and fishermen’s cottages, boutiques and eateries – the perfect way to fuel your adventures.

Trancoso Beach is equally a great place to unwind. Here, you’ll find sand that stretches on endlessly, framed by the aquamarine sea. 

Praia do Rosa, Santa Catarina

The clifftop Praia do Rosa is one of Brazil’s most picturesque surf towns. If you’re looking to venture from the metropolis of Florianópolis nearby, Praia do Rosa has all its neighbour’s beachy appeal and culture, with less of the bustle. 

Home to cinematic stretches of sand, try your hand at an early morning surf with one of the many surf schools. 

If you’re after a slightly more relaxed holiday, this spot is prime for simply enjoying the view of the cliffs and rocky outposts. 

Wander up to the town at sundown and find yourself a spot at the various eateries available. Enjoy steaming bowls of seafood and panoramic views.

Barra Grande, Bahia

Being one of the more remote beach towns, Barra Grande is certainly worth the journey. Located on a strip of land along Bahia’s lengthy coastline, you’ll find the small fishing town with an intimate atmosphere. 

Explore miles of beach in every direction and later recharge at one of the restaurants and sleepy inns. 

If you’re after a nautical getaway, be assured that boats play a pivotal role in the community. Rent a canoe and paddle out to the lagoons and desert islands around the town and coastline.

A flock of seagulls soaring above the ocean waves in Santa Catarina, capturing the essence of the coast
Few places guarantee quiet, empty beaches like Barra Grande

Jericoacoara, Ceará

Also known as ‘Jeri’, there’s a unique charm to this Brazilian beach town. At Jericoacoara, you’ll find the town’s beach, where hammocks hang from overwater along the coastline. Perfect for relaxation, you’ll be able to lie back with a book or watch the kitesurfers crest the waves in the distance. 

Beyond the beach, the town’s streets are all sand, meaning there’s little need for a change in attire as you head out for an early evening jaunt. 

The most spectacular part of the town however, is the nearby dunes. It’s a sensational sight any time of the day, but at sunset, the sand and sky turn a blushed peach, while the water boasts a royal blue colour.

A woman strolls along the beach in Ceará, enjoying the serene coastal scenery and waves
Experience desert-like scenery atop these beachside dunes

Praia dos Carneiros, Pernambuco

If you’re in search of some of the best Brazilian beaches, Praia dos Carneiros should most definitely feature on your list. 

This beach town boasts stretching shores and coastal views that look like something from a magazine. Relax amongst the light sands and warm, gentle waters – perfect for unwinding and losing track of time.

If you’re looking to get a real feel for the area, there are various boat tours available, so you can soak in all the views.

Taipus de Fora, Bahia

As a spot of unwavering natural beauty, Taipus de Fora’s clear waters and vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life.

So, if you’re looking for an action-packed break, this spot in Bahia is perfect for snorkelling. Explore the vibrant fish and reef pools of the coastal town on your sealife adventures.

Being one of the best beaches in Brazil, be assured that you’ll also find golden sands here – sure to set the scene for your trip.

Praia da Pipa, Rio Grande do Norte

If you’re looking for one of the best beach towns in Brazil for a day trip, look no further than Praia da Pipa

With a welcoming charm, this coastal town greets both tourists and locals alike – and with delicious eateries and picturesque settings, it’s no wonder it’s so popular.

This coastal town’s towering cliffs and powdery sands create a relaxing haven that you won’t want to leave.