Brazil is a land of unparalleled coastal beauty, boasting over 7,000 kilometers of pristine shoreline that caters to every type of traveler. From the vibrant, high-energy sands of Rio de Janeiro to the secluded, eco-conscious paradises of Ilha Grande and Trancoso, the country offers a diverse tapestry of beach experiences.
Whether you are seeking the rhythmic pulse of Afro-Brazilian culture in Salvador or the tranquil, crystal-clear pools of Praia Espelho, our 12-day Beaches Abound Tour is designed to immerse you in the very best of Brazil's tropical treasures. Discover your own slice of paradise along this vast and breathtaking coastline.
Rio de Janeiro
What hasn’t been said about Rio de Janeiro? When you think about beaches in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana and Ipanema are probably the first stretches of sand to enter your mind. These lively beaches buzz with activity, filled with local families, energetic football enthusiasts, hip young things, relaxed retirees, and excited tourists who all come here to enjoy the surf and sunshine. Grab a caipirinha cocktail from a beach kiosk and revel in the energy of the Ciudad Maravillosa. Rio isn’t just beaches, however. You will also visit impressive world-famous landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and other iconic Rio landmarks on this Beaches Abound tour.
Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande remains a lush tropical getaway thanks to its troubled past. This isle was once a leper colony and then a high-security prison, which is why this piece of paradise avoided rampant development. Today, Ilha Grande embraces its position as an eco-friendly hub for outdoor adventures. More than 100 stunning beaches ring a leafy interior that’s crisscrossed by nature trails; famous Praia Lopes Mendes is a perfect white-sand crescent framing a small cerulean bay. Ilha Grande is also known for excellent surfing and quiet streets – motorized vehicles are prohibited from this laid-back island. Lopez Mendes beach is a great place to relax, especially in the shade of nearby almond trees, where you can find your own perfect paradise.
Salvador
The essence of Africa thrives in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil’s third-largest city. Bahians love to eat acarajé bean patties, what Yoruba Nigerians call “akara". Enjoy the Afro-Brazilian martial art dance of capoeira which was also born in Bahia. Woven into the ebb and flow of life here are days spent surfing, sunning, and swimming on beautiful beaches. Praia Porto da Barra and Praia do Farol da Barra are popular sandy spots. For a quieter beach experience, heed the advice of the great Vinicius de Moraes and head to Itapuã. In his song Tarde em Itapuã, he hails the neighborhood as a serene place to spend an afternoon, listen to the sea, and talk about love.
Arraial D Ajuda
Not too far from Porto Seguro, is the charming and peaceful village of Arraial D Ajuda. Covered with shady trees sheltering a set of winding roads and lanes, the streets are lined with little restaurants and pousadas where you can indulge in a variety of food while enjoying the sweet smell of tropical vegetation that is always in the air at Arraial. A walk down Rua do Mucugê will take you to Praia do Mucugê, the closest beach to Arraial where you will enjoy walking on the soft white sands. There are other beaches like Apaga-Fogo and Araçaipe where you will find pousadas that will offer a variety of water sports equipment for rent, including kayaking and windsurfing.
Trancoso
Trancoso is an authentic yet sophisticated fishing village surrounded by beautiful beaches. Local life revolves around the old village square that dates from the same period. There are a handful of top quality, stylish, boutique luxury hotels as well as some great dining options and trendy boutique shops. Trancoso’s main attraction, however, is the miles of un-spoilt and often deserted beaches. The location of Trancoso is what makes it so desirable. A relatively small bay hemmed in by a dense, impassable tropical forest, the sleepy Trancoso is isolated, making it an ideal off-the-beaten-track vacation spot.
Praia Espelho
The contrast between Rio de Janeiro and Espelho could not be more contrasting. Espelho is the definition of a remote paradise. Just a short distance from Trancoso, Prai Espelho´s lovely pools and clear blue sea add to the picture-perfect setting of this sandy beach. Divers will see coral in the reef pools and on surfacing will see the backdrop of coconut palms and cliffs. There are tents, deck chairs, and mats available, for sunbathing while the nearby small village of Vila do Outeiro offers shopping, bars, restaurants, and accommodation. Seafood is a must when you go out for dinner, after all, when in Rome!
Book the Beach Abound tour of Brazil with Va expeditions here!
