Baía de São Lourenço
A meticulously planned coastal gem, Riviera de São Lourenço offers pristine beaches, a family-friendly atmosphere, and upscale amenities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Baía de São Lourenço
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A meticulously planned coastal gem, Riviera de São Lourenço offers pristine beaches, a family-friendly atmosphere, and upscale amenities.
"Best beach on the island. Parking can be tricky. Waves are fun."
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Leave São Paulo early or late to avoid weekend rush hour . Consider weekdays for a smoother journey.
👟 Bring Water Shoes
The ocean floor can change; water shoes offer comfort and protection on the beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riviera Beach
São Lourenço
Expansive, clean beach with soft white sand and gentle waves, perfect for families and relaxation.

Oceanside Pool
Beachfront
A fun, family-friendly pool offering an alternative to the ocean, especially for younger children.

Scenic Drive
Access road to the bay
A beautiful drive down to the bay, offering impressive views of the surrounding escarpment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Riviera Escape
Getting to São Lourenço
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Leave São Paulo early or late to avoid weekend rush hour.
Consider weekdays for a smoother journey.👟 Bring Water Shoes
The ocean floor can change; water shoes offer comfort and protection on the beach.
☀️ Check Tides & Weather
Visit during the week and check tides and weather for optimal beach conditions.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky, especially during peak times. Be patient and aware of your surroundings.
Reviewing all the Hikes I did on my Madeira trip
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Leave São Paulo early or late to avoid weekend rush hour.
Consider weekdays for a smoother journey.👟 Bring Water Shoes
The ocean floor can change; water shoes offer comfort and protection on the beach.
☀️ Check Tides & Weather
Visit during the week and check tides and weather for optimal beach conditions.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky, especially during peak times. Be patient and aware of your surroundings.
🌊 Ocean's Mood
The ocean can change quickly, from calm to wavy. Be prepared for different conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Baía de São Lourenço for its beautiful, clean beach with soft sand and mild ocean entry, making it ideal for families. The scenic drive and the presence of an oceanside pool are also highlighted as positives. However, some reviews note a lack of diverse food options and potential parking challenges.
"My favorite Santa Maria beach! I’ve been two years in a row and stay in the bay there. It’s nice and clean. The Oceanside pool appears fun but we enjoy the clean ocean. There are great family owned food facilities on and just off the beach. I also recommend to bring water shoes. The ocean changes on a dime so I have experienced it with swells or flat. Sunrises here are magical.
Tips: visit during the week and check tides and SpotAzores for current weather conditions. Please do not speed going down to the bay since cars park in the road."
Christina Ernst
"Fantastic beach with also natural pool and super scenic drive down. Good waves. No good food options. Parking, toilets etc are available and free."
Wouter Brunia
"A wonderful half-circle escarpment, where stepwise unique vineyards once grew and gave rise to the “Bastardinho” wine, surround a beautiful bay with a beach and tide pool. Impressive from the top promontory viewpoints or up close and personal at the bottom."
Margarida Bernardo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car via the Rodovia Rio-Santos (BR-101). Traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends and holidays.
Public transport options are limited, so driving is often preferred for flexibility.While buses serve Bertioga, direct public transport to Riviera de São Lourenço can be infrequent. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider ride-sharing services if not driving.
Travelers suggest leaving São Paulo very early in the morning or late at night to bypass peak traffic congestion.
Weekday travel is also significantly less crowded.Taxis are generally available, but cell phone service can be spotty in the area, making it difficult to book one on the spot.
It's recommended to arrange transport in advance if possible.Riviera de São Lourenço is located just after Guarujá when coming from São Paulo, making it a convenient stop or destination after passing through Guarujá.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the beach itself is free. However, parking facilities may have associated fees, especially during busy periods.
Riviera de São Lourenço is a residential and tourist area, so it's generally accessible at all times. However, specific facilities like restaurants or shops will have their own operating hours.
Yes, especially if you plan to visit during peak season (summer holidays, long weekends), booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended due to high demand.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for visiting the beach. However, it's always good practice to respect local regulations regarding waste disposal and noise levels.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy Riviera de São Lourenço as a day trip from São Paulo or nearby cities, taking advantage of its beautiful beach and amenities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach sports like futevôlei,
and simply relaxing. The scenic drive down to the bay is also a highlight.Yes, the beach has a very mild entrance and the ocean is often calm, making it suitable for children. There's also a dedicated pool for little ones.
The drive down to the bay itself offers impressive views. While not explicitly mentioned, the escarpment surrounding the bay provides natural vantage points.
Generally, yes. The beach has a mild entrance and is often calm, but conditions can change. Always be aware of the ocean's state and supervise children closely.
The beach is characterized by soft white sand, making it pleasant for walking and lounging.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reviews mention family-owned food facilities on and just off the beach,
and a snack bar is noted as good for lunch. However, one review states there are 'no good food options', suggesting variety might be limited.Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted. This can be a cost-effective option, especially for families.
Expect typical beachside fare, likely including seafood, snacks, and casual dining options. Some family-owned establishments offer local flavors.
While not explicitly detailed, the presence of beachfront facilities suggests some dining options may offer ocean views.
As an upscale development, dining prices might be higher than in other coastal areas. Bringing your own food or opting for snack bars can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach itself, with its soft sand and gentle waves, is a prime spot. The scenic drive down to the bay and the surrounding escarpment also offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Early mornings are ideal for capturing magical sunrises
and softer light. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour shots.The unique half-circle escarpment
and the contrast between the planned urban development and the natural coastline offer interesting photographic subjects.Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and ensure you have any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the ocean and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting, consider packing water shoes for the kids, as the ocean floor can be uneven. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is also a good idea to keep little ones happy. Visiting during the week can mean fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting as a day trip rather than staying overnight to manage costs. If driving, factor in potential parking fees. While there are dining options, they might be pricier, so packing a picnic is a smart move.
couples
Consider visiting during the week for a more intimate experience. Enjoying a meal at one of the family-owned eateries or simply relaxing by the ocean can be a perfect way to spend time together. The scenic drive down to the bay also offers beautiful views to share.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Urban Planning of Riviera de São Lourenço
The planning extends to the integration of the community with its environment. While it's a modern development, there's an effort to maintain the coastal charm. The layout is designed for convenience and aesthetics, with wide avenues, well-maintained parks, and direct access to the beach. This foresight in urban design is a key factor in why Riviera de São Lourenço is considered a premier destination for those seeking a well-organized and pleasant coastal experience.
Travelers often note the clean and organized nature of the Riviera, which is a direct result of its comprehensive planning. This attention to detail creates a serene atmosphere, distinct from more organically developed coastal towns. The project's success lies in its ability to offer a high quality of life and leisure within a structured and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Experiencing the Beach Life
Beyond swimming, the beach is a hub for various activities. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, beach sports, and simply soaking in the coastal ambiance. The presence of a snack bar provides convenient options for refreshments and light meals. For those seeking an alternative to the ocean, an oceanside pool offers a fun and accessible option, particularly for younger swimmers.
To make the most of your beach day, consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. Checking tide times and local weather forecasts, as suggested by reviewers, can help you plan for the best conditions. Bringing water shoes is also a practical tip, as the ocean floor can change.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit