Santos and South Coast Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, how to get around, and more in Santos and South Coast, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
- Introduction to Santos and South Coast
- List of Places to Visit in Santos and South Coast
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Santos and South Coast
- Best Things to Do in Santos and South Coast: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Santos and South Coast
- Food and Drink Scene of Santos and South Coast
- Where to Stay in Santos and South Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Santos and South Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Santos and South Coast
- Best Time to Visit Santos and South Coast
- Do’s and Don’ts of Santos and South Coast
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Santos and South Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Santos and South Coast
- Where to Go Next from Santos and South Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Santos and South Coast
Located in the state of Sao Paulo in Brazil, Santos and South Coast provide the perfect getaway from the bustling city life. The region boasts a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
List of Places to Visit in Santos and South Coast
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Museum of Coffee: Take a dive into the rich history of coffee production in the region through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
- Museu Pelé: Learn about the life and career of the legendary Brazilian footballer Edson Arantes do Nascimento popularly known as Pelé.
- Guarujá Fort: Explore the rich military history of the region through exhibits and impressive views from the fortress.
Natural Attractions of Santos and South Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Ilha Porchat: Enjoy panoramic views of the bay from atop this beautiful island.
- Jureia-Itatins Ecological Reserve: Take a hike and discover the stunning natural beauty of the Atlantic Rainforest.
- Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar: Get a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife in this protected area while hiking through trails.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Santos and South Coast
- Ecoturismo Guarujá: Offers a variety of nature hikes, bike tours, and water activities throughout the region.
- Caminhos do Mar: Take a bike ride along this historic route that connects Santos to the town of Cubatão, enjoying the stunning views of the Atlantic Rainforest along the way.
Best Things to Do in Santos and South Coast: Activities and Tours
- Boat Tours: Discover the beautiful coastline and beaches of Santos and South Coast through a guided boat tour.
- Beaches: Experience the beautiful beaches of Sao Paulo’s coastline, Praia do Tombo, Praia de Pernambuco, and Praia das Conchas to name a few.
- Nightlife in Santos: Take a stroll by the beachside and explore the local bars, restaurants or the nearby mall.
Week-Long Itinerary for Santos and South Coast
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Tour Museums - Museum of Coffee, Museu Pelé |
| 2 | Nature Trail - Jureia-Itatins Ecological Reserve |
| 3 | Bike Ride - Caminhos do Mar |
| 4 | Beach Tour - Praia do Tombo, Praia de Pernambuco, Praia das Conchas |
| 5 | Boat Tour |
| 6 | Visit Ilha Porchat |
| 7 | Nightlife in Santos |
Food and Drink Scene of Santos and South Coast
Must-Try Dishes
- Moqueca de Camarão: A savory seafood stew made with shrimp, coconut milk, palm oil, and a blend of spices.
- Bolinhos de Bacalhau: A savory fish cake made with salt cod, potatoes, and onions.
- Feijoada: A hearty stew made with black beans, beef, and pork, typically served with rice.
Local Beverages
- Caipirinha: Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça, sugar, and lime.
- Cerveja: Local beer, for example, Xingu Beer, a Black beer.
- Guaraná: A popular Brazilian soft drink made from the guaraná plant found in the Amazon rainforest.
Where to Stay in Santos and South Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Mendes Plaza Hotel: Located in Santos, this modern hotel features a rooftop pool and is only a short walk from the beach.
- Pousada Praia de São Vicente: A budget-friendly option located near the beach and some of the region’s top attractions.
- Parque Balneário Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in Santos with stunning ocean views and a wide range of amenities.
What to Buy in Santos and South Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Coffee: Take a bag or two of fresh coffee beans from the Museum of Coffee to enjoy the region’s unique taste back home.
- Cachaça: Bring back a bottle of cachaça, a distilled spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice, and a staple in many Brazilian cocktails.
- Handicrafts: Visit the town of Embu das Artes to find a variety of handmade crafts and art pieces to bring back home.
Local Culture and Customs of Santos and South Coast
The region has a vibrant culture that is heavily influenced by the coast’s history and the folk traditions of the Afro-Brazilian religions. Visitors can expect to see colorful celebrations and street festivals throughout the year, celebrating the region’s diverse cultural heritage and traditions.
Best Time to Visit Santos and South Coast
The region has a tropical climate, and the best time to visit is between April and September when temperatures are cooler and rain is less frequent. November and December are the months with the most rain, and it is recommended to avoid visiting during this time.
Do’s and Don’ts of Santos and South Coast
Do:
- Try the local cuisine and drinks
- Explore the natural beauty of the region
- Respect local customs and traditions
Don’t:
- Don’t litter or damage the environment
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent
- Don’t miss the traditional cultural events and festivals
Safety and Health
Safety in Santos and South Coast
The region is generally safe for visitors, but it is recommended to be cautious when walking alone at night and to avoid flashing valuables in public places.
Health in Santos and South Coast
Visitors are advised to have up-to-date vaccinations and to carry anti-malaria medication with them. Mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika and Dengue fever are prevalent in the region, so visitors should take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Getting to Santos and South Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Santos and South Coast
The nearest airport to Santos and South Coast is Sao Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), located approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from Santos by car or bus. Alternatively, Congonhas-São Paulo Airport (CGH) provides domestic flights and can be reached within an hour by car or bus.
Bus Stations Near Santos and South Coast
Santos Bus Station is the main bus terminal for the region, with connections to several cities in Sao Paulo and other nearby states.
Other Options
Private transfers and car rentals are also available for those who prefer more flexibility and convenience.
How to Get Around in Santos and South Coast
Public transportation options, including buses and trains, are available throughout the region with affordable fares. Visitors can also hire taxis or ride-hail services to get around.
Where to Go Next from Santos and South Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Sao Paulo City: Just a short drive away, the vibrant and bustling city of Sao Paulo offers endless options for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Ilhabela: A beautiful island off the coast of Sao Paulo, famous for its stunning beaches, hiking trails, and water activities.
- Paraty: A charming colonial town with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and history dating back to the 17th century.
Conclusion
Santos and South Coast offer a perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Brazil. From cultural attractions to stunning hiking trails, relaxing beaches, and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone.
