The Green Coast route: São Paulo, Paraty, Rio de Janeiro and Búzios
Between mountains covered by the Atlantic Forest , deep blue waters and colonial towns frozen in time, lies one of the most beautiful and complete routes in Brazil : the Costa Verde .
This natural corridor stretches from the southern coast of the state of São Paulo to the north of Rio de Janeiro , bordering the Atlantic Ocean and combining picture-postcard beaches, history, gastronomy and a perfect climate for year-round travel.
The Costa Verde gets its name from the vibrant green that dominates the landscape, a result of the Atlantic Forest that descends from the mountains to meet the sea. Beaches alternate with crystal-clear bays, iconic South American tourist cities, and small towns that preserve the essence of Brazilian coastal life.
Traveling this route means exploring contrasts. Below, we tell you about this ideal trip for those seeking nature, culture, beaches, and a dose of tropical inspiration.
The Costa Verde route begins in São Paulo
Although many think of São Paulo solely as a megacity of business and culture, its coastline is the natural starting point of the Costa Verde (Green Coast ). Just a few kilometers from the city center, the landscape changes completely: long beaches, nature reserves, and coastal towns that blend excellent cuisine with outdoor activities.
Among the most outstanding beaches is Guarujá , known as the "Pearl of the Atlantic," with stretches like Enseada or Pitangueiras , ideal for families and water sports. Further south lies Ilhabela , a paradisiacal island with waterfalls, jungle trails, and beaches like Praia do Curral or Bonete .
For travelers seeking a blend of nature and culture, the Paulista coast offers excellent trekking routes through the Atlantic Forest , as well as charming beach towns like São Sebastião , with a relaxed atmosphere and increasingly sophisticated gastronomic offerings.
Paraty: Colonial history and crystal-clear bays
Halfway between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro lies Paraty , one of the most beloved destinations on the Costa Verde . Founded in the 17th century, the city boasts an impeccably preserved colonial historic center , recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , with cobblestone streets and white houses with colorful frames.
The region is surrounded by Paraty Bay , home to dozens of beaches and small islands with calm, crystal-clear waters. Some of the most famous are Praia do Sono , accessible by footpath or boat and surrounded by rainforest, and Trindade , a collection of beaches with clear waters and natural pools.
Another unmissable experience is sailing through Ilha Grande Bay , where boats explore beaches like Lula , Vermelha , and Saco da Velha , perfect for those seeking complete relaxation. If your trip includes adventure, Paraty also offers excursions to waterfalls, kayaking routes through mangroves, and the famous Gold Route , a colonial road surrounded by lush nature.
São Paulo, Paraty and Rio de Janeiro 9 days / 8 nights
Rio de Janeiro: The "Wonderful City"
Talking about the Costa Verde without mentioning Rio de Janeiro would be impossible. The “Cidade Maravilhosa” (Marvelous City) is one of the world's most famous tourist capitals, a place where the mountains meet the sea and where every corner looks like a postcard.
Its beaches are an essential part of the trip. Copacabana , with its famous wavy promenade, vibrates with life at all hours: from morning joggers to beach soccer games at sunset. Ipanema , sophisticated and modern, offers unparalleled views of Morro Dois Irmãos and sunsets that draw tourists and locals alike.
Besides its beaches, Rio de Janeiro boasts world-renowned attractions: Christ the Redeemer , Sugarloaf Mountain , the Santa Teresa neighborhood, Lapa at night, and the Botanical Garden , one of the most important in Latin America.
Búzios: The most charming stop on the Costa Verde
The final stretch of the Costa Verde route leads to Búzios , a peninsula with over 20 beaches and a sophisticated atmosphere, ideal for ending your trip in relaxation and style. Famous since the 1960s thanks to Brigitte Bardot , Búzios blends the best of the Brazilian coast: high-end cuisine, boutiques, sports, nightlife, and spectacular beaches.
Among its must-sees is Geribá , a favorite among surfers and young travelers for its perfect waves. Ferradura , on the other hand, is a tranquil bay, ideal for families and water sports like stand-up paddleboarding. For those seeking an unforgettable postcard-perfect scene, João Fernandes offers crystal-clear waters, beachfront restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere.
If the goal is to explore more secluded spots, the small beach of Azeda , accessible by a short walk, and its neighbor Azedinha are ideal options for swimming in calm waters surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, Rua das Pedras offers one of the most charming strolls on the peninsula, with iconic sculptures, cafes, boutiques, and views of the bay.
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