North Coast (São Paulo) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to North Coast (São Paulo) with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore cultural and natural attractions, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and safety tips.


Introduction to North Coast (São Paulo)

North Coast (São Paulo) is a beautiful region in Southeast Brazil, known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Located in the state of São Paulo, this coastal region boasts a warm tropical climate, making it a perfect destination for year-round travel.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or a foodie, North Coast (São Paulo) has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we will provide you with all the necessary information to plan your trip to this enchanting region.

List of Places to Visit in North Coast (São Paulo)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museu de Arte Sacra de São Sebastião

Built in the 17th century as a church, Museu de Arte Sacra de São Sebastião is now a fascinating museum that houses a vast collection of sacred art. The museum has an impressive display of religious artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and furnishings.

Casa da Cultura de São Sebastião

Casa da Cultura de São Sebastião is a historic house that dates back to the 18th century. The house exhibits a variety of art and artifacts that depict the history and culture of the region.

Natural Attractions of North Coast (São Paulo): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ilhabela

Ilhabela is a beautiful island off the coast of North Coast (São Paulo). This island offers many outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. The island has a unique ecosystem and is home to many species of birds and animals.

Serra do Mar State Park

Serra do Mar State Park is a vast conservation area that covers over 315,000 hectares of land. The park has breathtaking views of the Atlantic Forest and is home to many species of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, and monkeys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Coast (São Paulo)

Whether you’re a recreational hiker or an experienced adventurer, North Coast (São Paulo) has a variety of hiking and biking trails for you to explore. Here are some of the popular routes:

Caminho do Mar

Caminho do Mar is a historic trail that was used in the 18th century to connect the cities of Santos and São Paulo. The trail covers over 110 km of stunning scenery and offers an excellent opportunity for hiking.

Ecological Reserve of Tupinambás

Ecological Reserve of Tupinambás has an extensive network of trails that run through the Atlantic Forest. The reserve is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers alike.

Best Things to Do in North Coast (São Paulo): Activities and Tours

Beach Hopping

North Coast (São Paulo) has some of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. Beach hopping is a popular activity here, and you can spend your day exploring different beaches, each with its unique charm.

Water Sports

North Coast (São Paulo) is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy activities such as surfing, kiteboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Coast (São Paulo)

Here is an example of a week-long itinerary for North Coast (São Paulo):

  • Day 1-2: Relax and explore the beaches of São Sebastião.
  • Day 3: Hike the Caminho do Mar trail.
  • Day 4: Take a boat trip to Ilhabela island and explore the island’s outdoor activities.
  • Day 5: Visit the Ecological Reserve of Tupinambás for some more hiking or mountain biking.
  • Day 6: Explore the historic sites and museums of São Sebastião.
  • Day 7: Spend your last day re-visiting your favorite beaches or trying out some new water sports.

Food and Drink Scene of North Coast (São Paulo)

Must-Try Dishes

The food scene in North Coast (São Paulo) is rich and diverse. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Barreado: a stew made with beef and cassava flour.
  • Moqueca: a fish stew made with coconut milk and dendê oil.
  • Pastel de camarão: a shrimp filled pastry.

Local Beverages

North Coast (São Paulo) is also famous for its delicious drinks. Some of the popular local beverages include:

  • Caipirinha: a cocktail made with cachaça, sugar, and lime.
  • Cerveja artesanal: locally brewed craft beer.

Where to Stay in North Coast (São Paulo): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

São Sebastião

São Sebastião has a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the popular hotels are:

  • Hotel Ilha de Toque Toque
  • Unique Garden Hotel & Spa
  • Hotel Spa Nau Royal

What to Buy in North Coast (São Paulo): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cachaça

Cachaça is a Brazilian distilled spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice. North Coast (São Paulo) has a vibrant cachaça industry, and visitors can buy cachaça directly from local distilleries.

Local Culture and Customs of North Coast (São Paulo)

North Coast (São Paulo) is a cultural melting pot, and there are many customs and traditions to explore, such as:

  • Festival de Inverno de São Sebastião - a winter festival that celebrates classical music.
  • Festa de São Benedito - a festival that celebrates the Patron Saint of fishermen in Ilhabela.

Best Time to Visit North Coast (São Paulo)

The best time to visit North Coast (São Paulo) is between July and September, which is the dry season. The weather is warm and sunny, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Coast (São Paulo)

Do:

  • Pack sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Take time to experience the culture and traditions of the region.

Don’t:

  • Leave your valuables unattended on the beach.
  • Swim in dangerous areas marked by warning signs.
  • Engage in illegal activities, such as drug use.

Safety and Health

Safety in North Coast (São Paulo)

North Coast (São Paulo) is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take precautions such as:

  • Use reputable transportation services.
  • Keep your valuables safe and out of sight.
  • Don’t walk alone at night.

Health in North Coast (São Paulo)

Tap water in North Coast (São Paulo) is safe to drink, but it’s always best to stick to bottled water. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Zika virus are prevalent in some parts of Brazil, so it’s essential to use insect repellent and protective clothing.

Getting to North Coast (São Paulo): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Coast (São Paulo)

The closest international airport to the North Coast (São Paulo) is São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car and drive to North Coast (São Paulo).

Bus Stations Near North Coast (São Paulo)

There are several bus stations in São Paulo city that offer transportation to the North Coast (São Paulo). The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Other Options

Another option is to rent a car and drive to North Coast (São Paulo) from other parts of Brazil.

How to Get Around in North Coast (São Paulo)

The best way to get around North Coast (São Paulo) is by car. You can rent a car at the airport or in the city center. There are also local buses that connect the various towns and cities in the region.

Where to Go Next from North Coast (São Paulo): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Santos

Santos is a vibrant coastal city located approximately 50 km from North Coast (São Paulo). The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many historic landmarks and museums.

São Paulo City

São Paulo City is one of the largest cities in the world and is known for its museums, art galleries, and culinary scene. The city is located approximately 150 km from North Coast (São Paulo).

Conclusion

North Coast (São Paulo) is an enchanting region in Brazil that offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. With this comprehensive guide, you will have all the necessary information to plan your trip and make the most of your stay in this breathtaking region.

Campos do Jordão, a very popular destination of the region. Campos do Jordão, a very popular destination of the region. Vermelha do Sul beach in Ubatuba. Vermelha do Sul beach in Ubatuba. São José do Barreiro, part of the ''Historical Valley Circuit''. São José do Barreiro, part of the ''Historical Valley Circuit''. Pedra do Baú in São Bento do Sapucaí. Pedra do Baú in São Bento do Sapucaí.


    Aparecida
    Campos do Jordão
    Caçapava
    Cruzeiro
    Cunha
    Guaratinguetá
    Pindamonhangaba
    Santo Antônio do Pinhal
    Serra do Mar State Park
    Taubaté