Ubatuba: beaches, Atlantic rainforest and nature on the Brazilian coast

Ubatuba is one of those destinations where nature takes over. Atlantic rainforest, wild beaches, and a relaxed pace make the trip more about enjoying than rushing. It is ideal for those looking for sea, greenery, and a more direct connection with the environment.

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Ubatuba: beaches, Atlantic rainforest and nature on the Brazilian coast

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What to see and do in Ubatuba
What to eat in Ubatuba
Where to stay in Ubatuba (2026)
7 Beaches Trail (Trilha das 7 Praias)
Tips and characteristics
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7 Beaches Trail (Trilha das 7 Praias) - The most famous trekking route in Ubatuba. A 10 km (one way) hike crossing hills and beaches.
Beaches of Ubatuba - Ubatuba has more than 100 beaches, from calm family-friendly ones to wild surf spots. Some of the best known are Praia do Félix, Praia Itamambuca, and Praia Domingas Dias. Each has its own personality and is worth exploring.
Surfing in Itamambuca - Itamambuca is one of the most famous surf beaches in Brazil. It has consistent waves, a young vibe, and a very natural setting. Even if you don’t surf, it is a great place to spend the day.
Trails and nature - The Atlantic rainforest surrounds the city and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints. There are short and accessible walks combining forest, rivers, and hidden beaches.
Boat trips and nearby islands - From Ubatuba you can take excursions to small islands and beaches that are difficult to reach by land. It is a great way to discover quieter and less crowded spots.
Town center and local life - The center has restaurants, markets, bars, and a relaxed atmosphere, especially in the late afternoon and evening. It is not a big city, but it has everything needed for a comfortable stay.

It is said that Ubatuba has more than 100 beaches. The variety is incredible: family beaches like Lázaro or Enseada with calm waters; surf beaches like Itamambuca or Praia Vermelha with strong waves; and hidden beaches only reachable by hiking or boat.

The city is nicknamed 'Ubachuva' ('chuva' means rain in Portuguese). Because of the mountains and rainforest, it rains quite often. That is what keeps everything so green and lush, so it is always good to bring a rain jacket or be patient when clouds appear.

Ubatuba’s cuisine combines seafood and classic Brazilian flavors:

Fish and seafood: moqueca, grilled fish, and fresh shrimp
Beach snacks and pastries: perfect for quick bites between beaches
Açaí: very popular and refreshing in the heat
Classic Brazilian dishes: rice, beans, farofa, and meats
Natural juices: passion fruit, mango, pineapple, and coconut

The traditional cuisine of Ubatuba is defined by caiçara culture, a mix of Indigenous, Portuguese, and African influences, using local resources such as fresh fish, shrimp, hearts of palm, and banana.

The most important decision is whether you prefer convenience (restaurants and shops nearby) or waking up in front of a specific beach, since the city is very spread out and traffic can be heavy in high season.

Central area and surroundings (Convenience & nightlife)

Itaguá: The best-infrastructure neighborhood. Its beach is not suitable for swimming, but it has Rua Guarani (the gastronomic hub), the TAMAR Project, and the aquarium. Ideal for travelers without a car and those who want restaurants nearby every night.
Praia Grande: The most famous and crowded beach. Full of apartments, kiosks, supermarkets, and services. Ideal for families with teenagers or groups looking for constant activity.
Perequê-Açu: North of the center, mixing swimmable beach with more affordable and youthful accommodations.

Northern beaches (Surf & wild nature)

Itamambuca: (My favorite) The surf hub. Rustic vibe, dirt roads, and dense vegetation. Ideal for surfers, eco-friendly couples, and those seeking total peace in nature.
Praia do Félix: One of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Accommodation here is mostly boutique inns or private rentals hidden in the hills.

Southern beaches (Calm & families)

Enseada and Lázaro: Calm, pool-like waters. Lázaro has great infrastructure and easy walking access to nearby beaches like Domingas Dias. Ideal for families with small children.
Lagoinha: Starting point of the 7 Beaches Trail. A quiet and safe residential area.

Ubatuba is very 'feet in the sand' style. No need for fancy clothes; people walk around in flip-flops, swimsuits, and a relaxed mood. It is the perfect place to disconnect from the city and reconnect with waves and birds.

This is Ubatuba’s signature trek because it lets you discover untouched beaches only accessible on foot or by boat.

It is a ~10 km one-way hike crossing the heart of the Atlantic Forest. The unique thing is that you move from beach to beach: walking through jungle, dropping down to the sand for a swim, then climbing again to the next viewpoint.

The route (step by step)

Best start: Praia da Lagoinha (flatter terrain) and finish at Praia da Fortaleza.

1 - Lagoinha: Starting point, very family-friendly.
2 - Oeste and Peres: Small, rocky beaches with fishermen’s houses.
3 - Bonete: Home to a traditional caiçara community with rustic kiosks.
4 - Grande do Bonete: The widest beach, perfect for a long break.
5 - Deserto: Literally empty, just sand and sea.
6 - Cedro do Sul: The most beautiful, emerald water perfect for snorkeling.
7 - Fortaleza: End point, calm waters where you can wait for transport.

Technical info:

Difficulty: Moderate. Not extreme, but there are uphill sections with roots and mud.
Time: 3 to 5 hours (including beach stops).
Cost: Free access; return transport is the main expense.
Best season: May to August (less rain and mosquitoes), but summer offers warmer water.

Tips:

Most people return by boat taxi from Cedro or Fortaleza back to Lagoinha.
Beware of “borrachudos” (tiny biting mosquitoes). Local citronella-based repellents work best.
No trash bins on the trail: carry everything back with you.
Signal can be weak at Fortaleza, so plan transport in advance.

Recommended gear:

Hiking shoes with grip (not flip-flops)
At least 1.5L of water per person
Snacks (nuts, energy bars)
Waterproof bag for phone/camera

Currency: Brazilian real (BRL)
Transport: Car recommended between beaches; local buses also available
Prices: Mixed; budget and upscale options available
Climate: Tropical and humid; frequent rain, especially in summer
Safety: Generally safe with normal precautions
Travel tip: Bring a rain jacket and don’t underestimate distances between beaches

Itaguá (central area) has Rua Guarani, full of shops, bars with live music, and ice cream shops. It is lively and safe for walking at night.

Ubatuba is a paradise for beach lovers. Imagine a place where the Atlantic rainforest seems to fall directly into the blue ocean.

Ubatuba, located on the northern coast of the state of São Paulo, is one of the most natural destinations on the Brazilian shoreline. With more than 100 beaches surrounded by Atlantic rainforest, it offers a very different experience compared to more urban beach cities in Brazil. It is a place to move slowly, explore beaches, walk trails, and enjoy the surroundings.

It is located in the north of the state of São Paulo. It is not a flat coastal city with skyscrapers; it is a mountainous region full of bays and hidden corners. It is famous as the 'Surf Capital' of Brazil, but also for having beaches that look like they belong in the movie Cast Away.

What to see and do in Ubatuba

7 Beaches Trail (Trilha das 7 Praias) - The most famous trekking route in Ubatuba. A 10 km (one way) hike crossing hills and beaches.
Beaches of Ubatuba - Ubatuba has more than 100 beaches, from calm family-friendly ones to wild surf spots. Some of the best known are Praia do Félix, Praia Itamambuca, and Praia Domingas Dias. Each has its own personality and is worth exploring.
Surfing in Itamambuca - Itamambuca is one of the most famous surf beaches in Brazil. It has consistent waves, a young vibe, and a very natural setting. Even if you don’t surf, it is a great place to spend the day.
Trails and nature - The Atlantic rainforest surrounds the city and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints. There are short and accessible walks combining forest, rivers, and hidden beaches.
Boat trips and nearby islands - From Ubatuba you can take excursions to small islands and beaches that are difficult to reach by land. It is a great way to discover quieter and less crowded spots.
Town center and local life - The center has restaurants, markets, bars, and a relaxed atmosphere, especially in the late afternoon and evening. It is not a big city, but it has everything needed for a comfortable stay.

What to eat in Ubatuba