Top 15 Sao Paulo Beaches for Sun-Kissed Adventures

São Paulo, the vibrant heart of Brazil, dazzles visitors with its skyscrapers, cultural institutions, and buzzing gastronomy scene. But just outside the city, a whole other world awaits: long stretches of sunlit beaches where the Atlantic breeze promises the perfect coastal escape.

Are There Beaches in Sao Paulo?

Although Sao Paulo city itself doesn’t sit directly on the coast, it’s incredibly close to the Atlantic Ocean, offering easy access to dozens of stunning beaches. Coastal temperatures typically range from 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F) year-round, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. So, are there beaches in Sao Paulo? Technically, no ocean beaches exist right inside the city boundaries, but within a 1- to 2-hour drive, you’ll find over 15 wonderful beaches ready for day trips or quick getaways. These beaches are usually free to access, safe during the day, and offer countless activities — from surfing and paddleboarding to seafood tasting and beach volleyball.

In this guide to the best beaches near Sao Paulo, we’ll take you through 15 beautiful spots. Each Sao Paulo beach offers a different atmosphere — whether you seek a lively promenade or a peaceful natural cove.

Don’t forget: before setting out, you can lighten your load by storing your bags at Qeepl’s convenient locations throughout São Paulo. That way, you can hit the beach carefree and relaxed.

1. Praia do Gonzaga

Located in the municipality of Santos, Praia do Gonzaga is only about an hour from São Paulo. It’s one of the easiest escapes for city dwellers who crave the sea without a long trip.

The beach is free and offers a spacious, lively atmosphere. Wide bike lanes, colorful playgrounds, and plenty of shaded benches make this a family favorite. During weekends, expect to see musicians performing live and bustling food stalls selling everything from pastel to cold coconut water. Adults love the shopping malls and cinemas just steps from the sand, making it a full-day experience. Swimming is generally safe, and lifeguards are stationed along the beach during peak times. Whether you want a lazy nap under an umbrella or a stroll along the art deco beachfront gardens, Gonzaga delivers an easy, complete seaside day.

2. Praia do Tombo

In the bustling town of Guarujá, Praia do Tombo sits about 90 minutes from São Paulo and is a true treasure, known for its Blue Flag status — a guarantee of top-notch water quality and environmental care.

Tombo Beach is free to enter and is especially loved by surfers, thanks to its strong and consistent waves. For non-surfers, it still offers plenty: wide sands for volleyball, cozy bars for cold drinks, and stunning sunsets that attract photographers. Families often stay closer to the shore where waters are calmer, and attentive lifeguards keep things safe. Simple seafood restaurants and beach kiosks line the promenade, serving fried fish, grilled cheese, and icy caipirinhas. It’s an active beach with a laid-back spirit, perfect for those who love some action with their relaxation.

3. Praia de Pernambuco

Also in Guarujá, Praia de Pernambuco is a beautiful stretch of coast about an hour and a half from the capital.

This beach is free, offering a much quieter and upscale vibe compared to busier beaches nearby. Ideal for families or couples looking to escape crowds, it’s known for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Locals recommend arriving early to grab a shady spot near the rocky ends, where the sea is calmer and full of colorful fish. There are several charming restaurants within walking distance, serving excellent seafood dishes like moquecas and shrimp stew. During weekends and holidays, mobile lifeguard posts ensure safety, creating a comfortable environment for all.

4. Praia da Enseada

Praia da Enseada, also in Guarujá, is about 1.5 hours from São Paulo and stretches more than 5 kilometers along the coast.

The beach is free, and its wide open space makes it fantastic for families with children. The ocean here varies: near the center, waves are stronger for surfers, while the ends have calmer waters perfect for swimmers and kids. Colorful umbrellas line the beach, offering shady spots for relaxing with açai bowls or grilled corn. Lifeguards patrol designated swimming zones, and the beach is illuminated at night, making evening walks safe and romantic. A bike rental service also offers a fun way to explore the coast while catching some sea breeze.

5. Praia de São Pedro

Praia de São Pedro is tucked within a gated community in Guarujá, about two hours from São Paulo, offering exclusivity and preserved beauty.

Although free, visitors must check in with security to access this slice of paradise. The reward is a pristine, semi-private beach with calm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and gentle swimming. No shops or restaurants exist here, so packing a picnic is a must. Nature trails around the beach provide scenic views of the surrounding Atlantic rainforest, making it a dream for nature lovers. Safety is excellent during the day, and the vibe is peaceful and uncrowded.

6. Praia do Éden

Praia do Éden, located in Guarujá, is a hidden treasure about an hour and a half from São Paulo.

Getting to this beach involves a short but steep trail, rewarding adventurers with breathtaking, postcard-perfect scenery. The beach is free, and its clear waters invite snorkeling, cliff jumping, and simply floating under the sun. It’s a favorite among couples seeking romantic hideaways and young travelers looking for unspoiled beauty. There’s a small beach shack offering simple drinks and snacks. Lifeguards are sometimes present on weekends, but visitors should swim cautiously during rough conditions.

7. Praia Branca

Situated in northern Guarujá, Praia Branca offers a rustic and charming escape reachable after a 20-minute hike through forested paths.

There’s no fee to enter, and visitors are greeted by a chilled-out scene: surfers riding steady waves, artisanal vendors selling crafts, and local eateries cooking fish on wood-burning stoves. Basic amenities like bathrooms and showers are available at some restaurants, but the beach retains a wild, natural feel. It’s a place where you can kick off your shoes, hang your hammock, and enjoy slow living by the sea.

8. Praia de Maresias

Located in São Sebastião, Praia de Maresias is about 2.5 hours from São Paulo and is Brazil’s iconic surf destination.

Access is free, and the beach buzzes with surfers, joggers, and sunbathers. The water can be strong, so beginners stay near calmer sections. Along the beach, stylish kiosks serve caipirinhas, grilled cheese sticks, and poke bowls. At night, the village of Maresias lights up with trendy clubs and beach bars, offering a different type of seaside adventure for those who want to dance by the waves. Lifeguards monitor active zones, and the crowd is lively but respectful.

9. Praia de Juquehy

Praia de Juquehy in São Sebastião is just over two hours from São Paulo, beloved for its blend of nature and comfort.

The beach is free, boasting calm, turquoise waters that families with children appreciate. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and banana boat rides are popular here, while the fine white sand invites beach volleyball and relaxed sunbathing. Upscale restaurants and boutique stores create a sophisticated vibe without losing its natural charm. Safety is excellent, with lifeguard stations dotted along the shore. It’s a fantastic spot for a peaceful but chic beach day.

10. Praia de Camburi

Also in São Sebastião, Praia de Camburi is about 2.5 hours from São Paulo and draws an artsy, bohemian crowd.

There’s no entry fee, and the beach is famous for its energetic surf and youthful atmosphere. Yoga classes, surf schools, and artisan markets give Camburi a unique character. There are several lively bars and seafood restaurants just a short stroll from the sand. It’s a place where families, backpackers, and surfers blend harmoniously, sharing sunny afternoons and colorful sunsets.

11. Praia de Barra do Sahy

Praia de Barra do Sahy is a small, picturesque beach in São Sebastião, located about two hours from São Paulo.

The beach is free and shaped like a crescent, making it visually striking. Calm waters invite paddleboarding and family swimming, while fishermen’s boats lend a traditional charm. Quiet beachfront cafes serve pastel de camarão (shrimp pastries) and cold beer under shady palms. It’s less crowded than other beaches, offering a peaceful and authentic coastal experience.

12. Praia da Baleia

Praia da Baleia, neighboring Barra do Sahy in São Sebastião, is an elegant, laid-back spot known for its tranquil beauty.

Entry is free, and the beach is often nearly empty on weekdays. Paddleboarders, early-morning joggers, and beach yoga groups frequent the sands. Facilities are minimal, so visitors usually bring their own beach gear. The scenery, however, is unbeatable: smooth white sands merging seamlessly into clear blue waters under the expansive Brazilian sky.

13. Praia do Félix

In the municipality of Ubatuba, Praia do Félix is around three hours from São Paulo, and well worth the trip.

The beach is free to enjoy, with both surfing zones and calm swimming areas separated naturally by the coastline. It’s a prime snorkeling location thanks to its transparent waters and coral reefs nearby. Rustic kiosks offer fresh juices, snacks, and coconut water. Hikers can also explore hidden trails leading to nearby beaches and lookout points.

14. Praia de Itamambuca

Praia de Itamambuca, also in Ubatuba, is a beloved surfers’ beach and a nature preserve at heart.

This free-entry beach is surrounded by dense Atlantic Forest and bisected by a freshwater river perfect for kayaking. Surfers dominate one half of the beach, while the other offers gentle swimming and a kid-friendly zone. It’s also a nesting ground for sea turtles during certain seasons, giving it an ecological importance that visitors respect.

15. Praia Grande

Praia Grande in Ubatuba is bustling and festive, with colorful umbrellas, bustling food carts, and families enjoying sunny weekends.

The beach is free, and its wide sands are ideal for beach sports. Vendors sell beachwear, souvenirs, and all sorts of local delicacies. It’s a lively place that captures the joyful, energetic side of Brazilian beach culture. Lifeguards keep watch, and evening street markets often pop up along the beach road.

Best Beaches in Sao Paulo

Qeepl’s experts carefully reviewed all 15 beaches and selected the top 3 beaches near Sao Paulo based on accessibility, safety, natural beauty, and activity variety:

• Praia do Gonzaga: Best for a quick, easy escape. Just one hour from São Paulo, Gonzaga combines lively city vibes with wide sandy beaches and excellent safety measures.
• Praia de Maresias: Best for surfers and night owls. Maresias delivers adventure, vibrant nightlife, and perfect surfing conditions, ideal for an energetic escape.
• Praia de Juquehy: Best for families and relaxation. Its calm waters, sophisticated eateries, and quiet atmosphere offer an upscale yet welcoming seaside experience.