
Praia de Ubatuba
Ubatuba, Brazil's 'Surf Capital,' boasts over 100 stunning beaches, from bustling surf spots to secluded island paradises.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Praia de Ubatuba
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ubatuba, Brazil's 'Surf Capital,' boasts over 100 stunning beaches, from bustling surf spots to secluded island paradises.
"If you want to experience the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, Ubatuba Beach in Brazil offers an incredible view."

🚗 Beat the Traffic
Getting to and from Ubatuba can be challenging. Plan your travel times carefully to avoid major traffic jams.
🚤 Island Hopping Adventures
Boat tours are a fantastic way to explore Ubatuba's numerous islands and remote beaches. Book in advance!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ilha das Couves
North Coast
A pristine island paradise with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Perfect for snorkeling and soaking up nature's beauty.

Praia de Santa Rita
Enseada
Famous for its picturesque staircase leading to the beach, offering a unique photo opportunity and stunning ocean views.

Praia do Félix
North Coast
Often cited as a favorite, this beach offers ample shade from trees and serves as a gateway to other secluded coves.

Praia das Palmas
Ilha Anchieta
A long stretch of crystalline, shallow waters ideal for a refreshing dip, accessible via boat tours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Beach Hopping Adventure
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Getting to and from Ubatuba can be challenging. Plan your travel times carefully to avoid major traffic jams.
🚤 Island Hopping Adventures
Boat tours are a fantastic way to explore Ubatuba's numerous islands and remote beaches. Book in advance!
🥽 Snorkel & Dive Gear
Many beaches offer incredible snorkeling opportunities. Bring your own gear or rent it locally to explore the underwater world.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
The Brazilian sun is strong. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Getting to and from Ubatuba can be challenging. Plan your travel times carefully to avoid major traffic jams.
🚤 Island Hopping Adventures
Boat tours are a fantastic way to explore Ubatuba's numerous islands and remote beaches. Book in advance!
🥽 Snorkel & Dive Gear
Many beaches offer incredible snorkeling opportunities. Bring your own gear or rent it locally to explore the underwater world.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
The Brazilian sun is strong. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Help preserve Ubatuba's natural beauty by taking all your trash with you. Many beaches are pristine and rely on visitors' respect.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ubatuba is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, with countless pristine beaches offering stunning ocean views and clear waters. Visitors praise the friendly vendors and the overall tranquil atmosphere. However, the journey to and from Ubatuba can be a significant challenge due to heavy traffic.
"If you want to experience the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, Ubatuba Beach in Brazil offers an incredible view. It's the perfect place to take pictures and enjoy the scenery, and you can even swim in the ocean. If you are in São Paulo, Brazil, be sure not to miss it."
Oscar We trust God
"The water is warm and clear. The waves drift sideways and once you go last the break it is so tranquil and lovely. The vendors on the beach are friendly and helpful. They go out of there way to get you what you want."
Becca Lindsay
"Nice beach however to get there and get out is just hell. Don't even try it."
Ricardo Fonseca
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Ubatuba from São Paulo is by car, taking approximately 3-4 hours via the Rio-Santos highway (BR-101). Buses are also available from São Paulo's Tietê Bus Terminal.
While Ubatuba has local buses, having a car offers the most flexibility to explore its many beaches. Ride-sharing services are also available, but coverage can be spotty in more remote areas.
The BR-101 (Rio-Santos highway) is the main route. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak season and weekends.
The closest major airports are in São Paulo (GRU and CGH). From there, you would need to arrange ground transportation to Ubatuba.
No, Ubatuba does not have its own airport. All air travel requires connecting to ground transportation from São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most beaches in Ubatuba are public and free to access. However, some private islands or specific attractions might have entrance fees or require boat tour bookings.
Beaches are generally accessible 24/7. However, facilities like restrooms or kiosks may have specific operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon.
Generally, no special permits are required for visiting the beaches. However, for specific activities like camping in certain areas or visiting protected natural parks, permits might be necessary.
Costs vary greatly depending on accommodation, dining, and activities. Beach access is free, but boat tours, island rentals, and dining can add up.
Yes, booking boat tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Ubatuba has over 100 beaches! Popular choices include Praia Grande, Praia do Félix, Ilha das Couves, Praia de Santa Rita, and Praia das Palmas.
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, snorkeling, diving, boat tours, hiking to viewpoints, and exploring the vibrant marine life.
Yes, Ubatuba is known as the 'Surf Capital of Brazil' with many beaches offering excellent waves for surfers of all levels, especially Praia Grande.
Absolutely! Many beaches are accessible via short, scenic trails, and there are longer trails offering stunning coastal views.
Boat tours are the most popular and efficient way to explore Ubatuba's numerous islands, such as Ilha das Couves and Ilha Anchieta.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ubatuba offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachside kiosks serving fresh seafood and snacks to restaurants offering regional Brazilian cuisine.
Yes, given its coastal location, Ubatuba has many excellent restaurants specializing in fresh seafood. Look for local recommendations near the main beaches.
Try fresh grilled fish, shrimp dishes, and traditional moqueca (fish stew). Many places also offer acarajé and other Bahian-inspired snacks.
While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for options.
Prices can range from affordable snacks at beach kiosks to mid-range and higher prices at more established restaurants. Expect to pay more for seafood specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic staircase at Praia de Santa Rita, the colorful boats at Pincinguaba, and the panoramic views from various viewpoints are highly photogenic.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for beach photography. Midday can be harsh but good for capturing the vibrant blue waters.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near protected natural parks or private condominiums. Always check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive beach scenes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant details. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable for beach activities.
Many west-facing beaches offer stunning sunset views. Praia Grande and beaches on the southern coast are often recommended for their sunset vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, prioritize beaches with good infrastructure, such as kiosks for snacks and restrooms. Beaches like Praia do Ubatumirim offer gentle waves suitable for younger swimmers. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection, snacks, and entertainment for the kids. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a sunset stroll along Praia do Félix or a private boat tour to a hidden cove. The tranquility of beaches like Praia da Justa offers a peaceful backdrop for quality time. Enjoying fresh seafood dinners at beachfront restaurants can also add to the romantic ambiance of your Ubatuba getaway.
🏄♀️ Surfers & Water Sports Enthusiasts
Beyond surfing, Ubatuba offers opportunities for windsurfing and other water sports. Many beaches have rental shops and surf schools where you can get equipment and lessons. Exploring the coastline by kayak or stand-up paddleboard is also a fantastic way to experience the water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ubatuba's Diverse Beaches
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, many beaches are reached by short, scenic hiking trails. Praia do Cedrinho requires a 10-minute trek, while Praia da Justa can be accessed by a 10-15 minute trail or by water. These trails often lead to hidden paradises, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views and a sense of discovery. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for varying terrain, especially after rain.
When planning your beach itinerary, consider the type of experience you're looking for. Surfers will flock to Praia Grande, while snorkelers will love the clear waters of Ilha das Couves. For a truly unique photo opportunity, the Praia de Santa Rita staircase is a must-see. Regardless of your choice, always practice responsible tourism by respecting the environment and taking your trash with you.
Navigating Ubatuba: Transportation and Access
For those without a car, local buses operate within Ubatuba, connecting different neighborhoods and some of the more accessible beaches. Ride-sharing services like Uber are available, but their availability can be limited, especially in more remote locations. Boat tours are an essential mode of transport for accessing many of Ubatuba's stunning islands and secluded beaches, such as Ilha das Couves and Ilha Anchieta. Booking these tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
When accessing beaches, be prepared for varied terrain. Some, like Praia Grande, are easily accessible, while others, such as Praia do Cedrinho, require a short hiking trail. Praia da Justa can be reached by a trail or by water. Always wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan on hiking, and be mindful of slippery conditions after rain.
Whale Watching in Ubatuba
Several tour operators in Ubatuba offer dedicated whale watching excursions. These tours typically depart from the main marinas and provide an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. It's advisable to book these tours in advance, as they are popular during the season.
Beyond the whales, Ubatuba's rich marine biodiversity makes it a fantastic destination for snorkeling and diving. The clear waters around islands like Ilha das Couves are teeming with colorful fish, offering excellent underwater exploration opportunities.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit