Praia Grande (São Paulo) Travel Guide

Discover the best of Praia Grande (São Paulo), from natural attractions to cultural landmarks and a vibrant food scene. Explore this beautiful city on foot or bike and relax at the best hotels. Plan your itinerary with our week-long guide and discover nearby destinations.


Introduction to Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Praia Grande is a popular seaside resort city located in the Santos and South Coast region of São Paulo state, Brazil. It boasts 22 kilometers of beautiful beaches and a lively cultural scene, making it a top destination for both local and international travelers. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, or just a relaxing beach vacation, Praia Grande has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cidade da Criança: This theme park is the first one in Brazil exclusively dedicated to kids. Enjoy an array of activities here, and spend a long day here with your family.
  • Palácio das Artes: This cultural center hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year, ranging from theater productions to musical concerts.
  • Fortaleza de Itaipu: This historic fort dates back to the 19th century and is a great example of the local Portuguese architecture.
  • Mercado de Peixes: This large fish market is a great place to taste fresh seafood and local delicacies, and it also gives a glimpse into the everyday life of Praia Grande’s residents.

Natural Attractions of Praia Grande (São Paulo): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Praia do Forte: This is one of the most popular beaches in Praia Grande, with clear waters and soft sands. It offers a variety of activities for all ages.
  • Parque das Montanhas: This park has beautiful hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of Praia Grande and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an excellent place to enjoy local fauna and flora.
  • Pedra Que Engole: Hike up to the top of this amazing rock formation, where you’ll find a natural pool with crystal-clear water. This is one of the most picturesque natural attractions in Praia Grande.
  • Morro do Maluf: This hill offers a breathtaking view of Praia Grande, and is a popular spot for hiking, paragliding, and mountain biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Praia Grande has an extensive network of bike lanes and pedestrian trails that offer a unique way to explore the city. The most popular routes include:

  • Ciclovia Orla da Praia: This is the primary bike lane running parallel to Praia do Forte. It is an easy-going pathway that offers great sea views.
  • Trilha do Parque das Montanhas: This 2.5km long hiking trail offers fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby mountains.
  • Pista do Portinho: This bike route runs through the forested area of Praia Grande, offering a nice natural setting and shade.

Best Things to Do in Praia Grande (São Paulo): Activities and Tours

  • Beach hopping: Praia Grande has over 20 km of beaches, and you can spend a few days visiting them all and enjoying beach activities like swimming, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
  • Helicopter Tour: Take a helicopter tour over the city to enjoy the breathtaking views of the coast, the hills, and the parks.
  • Boat trip: Enjoy a boat ride along the coast of Praia Grande and explore hidden beaches and coves.
  • Street Culture Tour: Explore the local artistic and cultural scene in Praia Grande on a walking tour with a local guide, visiting public art installations and design studios.

Week-Long Itinerary for Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Day 1: Relax on Praia do Forte and watch the sunset. Day 2: Hike up to Pedra Que Engole and enjoy a swim in the natural pool. Day 3: Visit Cidade da Criança with your kids, and enjoy lunch at Mercado de Peixes. Day 4: Take a helicopter tour around Praia Grande and nearby cities. Day 5: Explore the Centro Cultural Palácio das Artes and learn about local culture. Day 6: Rent a bike and visit Parque das Montanhas, have a picnic and enjoy a beautiful sunset. Day 7: Shop for souvenirs and locally-made products to bring home.

Food and Drink Scene of Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Feijoada: This is a typical Brazilian dish made with black beans, beef, and pork. It’s usually served with rice and farofa and is often considered the national dish.
  • Coxinha: This is a popular Brazilian snack made with shredded chicken and dough, shaped like a drumstick and deep-fried.

Local Beverages

  • Caipirinha: This is a traditional Brazilian drink made with cachaça (a distilled spirit made from sugar cane), lime, sugar, and ice.
  • Cerveja: Brazil has a vibrant beer culture, and it’s easy to find a variety of good-quality local beers.

Where to Stay in Praia Grande (São Paulo): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Praia Grande: This is a high-quality hotel located near Praia do Forte, with beautiful sea views and excellent amenities.
  • Pousada São Francisco: This guesthouse is located in a quiet residential area, offering a more peaceful retreat while still being close to the beach.
  • Hostel Praia Grande: This hostel has a prime location near the best beaches in Praia Grande and is perfect for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Praia Grande (São Paulo): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade jewelry: Praia Grande has a vibrant crafts scene, and you can find unique handmade jewelry and accessories at local markets.
  • Souvenir t-shirts: There are plenty of shops selling souvenir t-shirts with funny phrases and images related to Praia Grande.
  • Local sweets and snacks: Try some of the locally-made sweets and snacks, like homemade biscuits and caramelized nuts.

Local Culture and Customs of Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Praia Grande’s culture is heavily influenced by the sea, and locals are proud of their fishing heritage. It’s common to see fishermen selling fresh seafood early in the morning. The city also has a prominent artistic community, with many galleries and cultural centers hosting exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Praia Grande (São Paulo)

The best time to visit Praia Grande is during the summer season, between December and March when temperatures are higher and the beaches are busier. However, if you’re looking for a quieter and more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the low season, between May and September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions;
  • Use sunscreen and drink plenty of water while spending time on the beach.
  • Try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Brazilian dishes.
  • Take care of the environment and avoid littering.

Don’t:

  • Swim at unguarded beaches;
  • Leave your belongings unattended on the beach.
  • Ignore the red or yellow flag on the beach - these indicate dangerous currents.
  • Order drinks or food from beach vendors with no official license or permit.

Safety and Health

Safety in Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Praia Grande is a relatively safe city, but it’s always important to take precautionary measures. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods and keep an eye on your belongings while in crowded areas.

Health in Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Praia Grande has good access to hospitals and health clinics, and basic medical care is easily available. However, it’s always recommended that you have health insurance in case of emergencies.

Getting to Praia Grande (São Paulo): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Praia Grande (São Paulo)

The nearest major airport to Praia Grande is São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport, located about 100 km away.

Bus Stations Near Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Praia Grande has a bus station with regular connections to major cities in the region, including São Paulo and Santos.

Other Options

If you’re coming from São Paulo, the best option is to rent a car or take a private transfer. This will give you more flexibility and allow you to explore the region at your leisure.

How to Get Around in Praia Grande (São Paulo)

Praia Grande has an extensive network of bike lanes and pedestrian trails that offer a unique way to explore the city, so renting a bike or walking is a great way to get around. You can also use local buses and taxis, which are affordable and safe.

Where to Go Next from Praia Grande (São Paulo): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Praia Grande is ideally situated to explore nearby destinations, including:

  • São Paulo: This is the largest city in Brazil and is known for its vibrant culture, museums, and nightlife.
  • Santos: This coastal city is just a few kilometers away from Praia Grande and is well-known for its beachfront gardens, museums and historic sites.
  • Ilha Bela: This beautiful island is located about 200 km away from Praia Grande and is popular for its pristine beaches, waterfalls and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Praia Grande is a vibrant and exciting destination, offering a unique blend of cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and a beautiful seaside. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a cultural experience, Praia Grande has something for you. Plan your next trip today and discover everything this amazing city has to offer.