The Green Coast: Experience the Charm of Paraty, Ilha Grande, and Búzios
If you’re seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Rio de Janeiro, look no further than the picturesque town of Paraty. This historic colonial gem offers charming cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and a unique blend of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Ilha Grande, three hours from Rio de Janeiro, is home to a unique eco-system of pristine beaches and lush forest covered hillsides. For those looking to discover paradise a little more off the beaten track Ilha Grande is the perfect choice for you. You can spend your days discovering the island on foot (as there are no cars on the island!) taking in the numerous beaches, bays and perfect waters for snorkelling.
Alternatively, to the east of Rio, Búzios is a coastal treasure with much to offer. Known for its lively yet laid-back atmosphere, Búzios boasts over 20 pristine beaches, a paradise for snorkelling, surfing, kite surfing, and sailing. Whether you're looking for a lively beach with plenty of bars and restaurants or a quiet, secluded cove, you’ll find the perfect spot to relax, while the town itself offers a range of stylish bars, seafood restaurants, and chic boutiques.
Why The Green Coast?
These destinations along Brazil’s Green Coast combine rich history, beautiful beaches, lush nature, and vibrant local culture. From the cobbled streets of Paraty to the lively nightlife and pristine shores of Búzios, and the tranquil natural beauty of Ilha Grande, the region offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it the perfect getaway. Whether you seek cultural exploration, outdoor activities, or a peaceful retreat, these coastal gems provide an unforgettable experience.
Brazil
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Real (BZL)
Snorkelling Boat Tour
When is the best time to go to Buzios and The Green Coast?
You can visit Paraty, Búzios, and the Green Coast year-round, but for the best weather, we recommend going between September and April. During this period, you’ll experience pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, perfect for exploring Paraty’s colonial charm, Ilha Grande’s pristine beaches, and Búzios’ vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastline. This is the ideal time to enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities that the Green Coast has to offer.
About The Green Coast and things to do
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or water sports, culture or nature, Brazil’s Costa Verde has something to offer everyone.
The historic seaside town of Paraty is best for cobbled streets, colonial architecture and culture. Illa Grande is ideal for exploring the spectacular white-sand beaches, hiking trails along jungle-clad hills and excellent snorkelling opportunities. Armação dos Búzios is more lively, known for its chic atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and over 20 beaches, each offering a unique experience. Together, these destinations offer the perfect mix of relaxation, outdoor adventure, and cultural exploration, making the Green Coast an unforgettable part of your Brazil journey.
Things to Do in Paraty, Ilha Grande, and Armação dos Búzios:
Boat Trips Around Paraty: Explore Paraty’s beautiful bay and its nearly 300 islands, many of which are uninhabited. Arrange a boat tour to discover hidden beaches, snorkelling spots, and pristine waters.
Ilha Grande: Just a short boat ride from Paraty, Ilha Grande is an island paradise. Hike through lush jungles, relax on the stunning Lopes Mendes beach, or take a boat trip to Blue Lagoon for unforgettable snorkelling and swimming experiences.
Armação dos Búzios: Head further up the coast to Búzios, a chic beach town with a mix of luxury and laid-back charm. Explore its over 20 beaches, stroll along Rua das Pedras for shopping and dining, and enjoy vibrant nightlife at its beachfront bars and clubs.
Water Activities: Paraty, Ilha Grande, and Búzios offer plenty of options for snorkelling, diving, kayaking, fishing, and paddle-boarding.
Trindade Day Trip: Take a short trip from Paraty to the bohemian village of Trindade, known for its tranquil beaches and lush natural surroundings. It's a perfect escape for those seeking peace and beauty in nature.
- Schooner Tours from Búzios and Ilha Grande: Explore the stunning coastline with a schooner tour from Búzios or Ilha Grande. Sail to hidden beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the spectacular views of lush landscapes and vibrant marine life.
Hiking and Walking Tours: Paraty offers the famous Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro), a historic route used during colonial times. Explore the trail through Serra da Bocaína National Park, home to waterfalls, wildlife, and lush landscapes. On Ilha Grande, explore hiking trails leading to scenic viewpoints and secluded beaches.
Twilight Film Location: Movie fans can visit the cove where Bella and Edward filmed their honeymoon in Twilight: Breaking Dawn. A scenic hike from Miram will lead you to this beautiful spot, offering panoramic views and crystal-clear waters.
Shopping and Dining: Paraty’s old town is a hub for artisan shops selling unique handcrafted goods and local Cachaça. In Búzios, explore its boutique shopping scene. Enjoy Brazilian cuisine at local restaurants or beachside eateries in both Paraty and Búzios, with many offering live music for a lively evening.
Nature and Snorkelling: Paraty’s crystal-clear waters offer excellent snorkelling with vibrant coral reefs and sea turtles. Ilha Grande also boasts some of Brazil’s best snorkelling spots, where you can swim alongside marine life in stunning surroundings.
Nightlife: Paraty’s nightlife centres around Praça da Matriz, with live music at bars and a relaxed atmosphere in its beachside restaurants. In Búzios, enjoy the vibrant nightlife on Rua das Pedras, with trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants that offer a chic yet relaxed ambiance.
Highlights of Buzios and The Green Coast
Experience the Charm and beauty of Paraty
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Buzios and The Green Coast Travel FAQs
Where is Búzios and how do I get there?
Búzios is a chic coastal town located around 3 hours east of Rio de Janeiro by road. Known as Brazil’s answer to Saint-Tropez, it’s easily accessible via private transfer or coach from Rio. The Green Coast (Costa Verde), which includes destinations like Angra dos Reis and Paraty, lies southwest of Rio and is similarly reachable in 3–4 hours by road.
What is Búzios best known for?
Búzios is best known for its crystal-clear waters, quaint cobbled streets, and an atmosphere that blends rustic charm with cosmopolitan flair. It became famous in the 1960s thanks to Brigitte Bardot, and today offers over 20 beaches, excellent seafood restaurants, and a lively yet laid-back vibe.
What is the Green Coast (Costa Verde)?
The Green Coast is a lush, mountainous stretch of Atlantic coastline between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, characterised by jungle-clad hills, colonial towns, and secluded islands. It’s home to charming destinations such as Paraty, a beautifully preserved 17th-century port, and Ilha Grande, an island with no cars and miles of hiking trails and beaches.
How many days should I spend in Búzios or the Green Coast?
We recommend spending 2 to 4 days in either destination. Búzios offers a beach-focused escape with boutique charm, while the Green Coast is perfect for combining nature, history, and relaxation. Many travellers include a few nights in both regions when exploring Brazil beyond Rio.
What kind of activities can I enjoy in Búzios and the Green Coast?
In Búzios, you can enjoy beach hopping, boat trips, snorkelling, windsurfing, or simply relaxing at seaside cafés. Along the Green Coast, popular activities include hiking in the Atlantic Forest, exploring waterfalls, taking schooner cruises around Ilha Grande, and strolling the colonial streets of Paraty.