Find the perfect beach for your trip, with tips on access, structure and what to do in each region of the city
Ubatuba, on the north coast of São Paulo, is famous for its impressive diversity, home to more than 100 beaches along its coast. This variety, however, can be a challenge when planning your trip. To help with your choice, this practical guide presents the best beaches in Ubatuba for each type of traveler, whether you are a family with children, a surfer looking for the perfect wave or someone just looking for peace and contact with nature.
Planning your trip to Ubatuba
Before choosing your beach, some logistical information is essential to organize your itinerary. Ubatuba is a popular year-round destination, but planning makes all the difference.
- How to arrive: The main access is by car, via the Oswaldo Cruz Highway (SP-125) for those coming from Taubaté or via the Rio-Santos Highway (BR-101) for those coming from Rio de Janeiro or other cities on the coast of São Paulo. Bus companies also operate regular services to the city from the main capitals.
- Best time: Summer (December to March) is the high season, with hot days, greater movement and late afternoon rain. To avoid crowds and still enjoy the good weather, the months of autumn (April and May) and spring (September to November) are excellent options.
The best beaches in Ubatuba for each profile
With so many options, the secret is to choose the beach that best suits your style. We have divided the main recommendations by profile to make your decision easier.
For families with children
Beaches with calm seas, a good structure of kiosks and easy access are the most suitable for those traveling with little ones.
- Lázaro Beach: Famous for its calm waters that look like a swimming pool, it is perfect for children. It has a good range of kiosks and kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals.
- Almada Beach: Located in the far north, it has an extremely calm sea and a paradisiacal look. The structure is more rustic, but the restaurants right on the sand guarantee comfort.
- Perequê-Açu Beach: Being in the central region, it offers easy access and a waterfront with a bike path and many kiosks. The sea is generally calm, ideal for a family day without long journeys.
For surfers
Ubatuba is one of the main surf spots in Brazil, with waves for all levels.
- Itamambuca Beach: Considered the temple of surfing in the region, it hosts championships and offers constant, high-quality waves. The surrounding structure is excellent, with surf schools and charming inns.
- Red Beach of the North: Known for its strong, tubular waves, it is recommended for experienced surfers. The sea is rough and demands attention, but it guarantees high-level surfing.
- Felix Beach: Versatile, pleases different surfers. The right corner of the beach has calmer waves, good for beginners, while the left corner offers stronger and faster waves.
For those looking for peace and nature
If your idea is to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with nature, the most preserved beaches with access via trails are the right choice.
- Cedro do Sul Beach: Accessible by a short, easy trail from Praia da Fortaleza, it is a small paradise with crystal clear waters and white sand, ideal for snorkeling.
- Brava da Almada Beach: To get there, you need to take a trail of medium difficulty. The reward is a practically deserted beach, with wild nature and an environment of absolute peace.
- Justa Beach: A hidden refuge next to Praia do Ubatumirim. Access is on foot, crossing a small river. It is small, reserved and has an incredibly calm sea.
Practical tips to make the most of Ubatuba
- Accommodation: The city offers options for all budgets. The center is ideal for those looking for practicality. Itamambuca and Félix are perfect for those who want to be close to nature and surfing. The southern region, such as Lázaro and Enseada, has hotels and inns focused on families.
- Locomotion: Having a car is essential for exploring the different beaches, as the distances between the north, center and south regions are large. In high season, be prepared for traffic on Rio-Santos.
- Gastronomy: Rua Guarani, in the Itaguá neighborhood, is the city’s main gastronomic hub, with restaurants, bars and ice cream shops. Don’t forget to try the fresh seafood dishes.
- Protection: Insect repellent is an essential item at any time of year, especially when visiting beaches with more vegetation.
With this guide, it will be easier to understand that Ubatuba really has a beach for every taste. Planning your trip considering your profile is the first step to making the most of what this incredible destination has to offer, whether relaxing in calm waters, catching perfect waves or simply enjoying the tranquility of a deserted beach.