Once a quiet fishing village, Buzios has transformed into one of Brazil's most sophisticated and glamorous coastal destinations. Located in the Rio de Janeiro region, this stunning peninsula offers a perfect blend of high-energy nightlife, world-class surfing, and serene beaches that cater to every type of traveler.
Whether you are looking to paraglide over turquoise waters, explore bohemian boutiques along the iconic Rua das Pedras, or simply relax with a caipirinha while watching the sunset, Buzios provides an unforgettable escape. Discover the best activities and hidden gems that make this Brazilian paradise a must-visit on your next South American adventure.
Paraglide over Tucuns Beach
With immaculate landscapes, it’s no wonder that Rio locals enjoy hang-gliding and paragliding over this town. Panoramic flights depart the low Sierra behind Tucuns beach, out over the gentle coastline of the entire Buzios peninsula and the turquoise ocean. The tour includes an optional pre-flight hike through the forests and flights usually las for around 40 minutes, depending on the weather.
Learn to surf
Before it was a busy beach resort, Búzios was a secret surfing hangout. Professional surfers still visit regularly and four of the 20 beaches are highly ranked among the best surf beaches in Brazil, Tucuns, is a long sandy bay with big waves; Geriba, has a surf camp surf which offers classes for all ages and levels, including beginners who start their surf adventure by standing on their boards on the beach, learning about their balance.
Adrenalin sports
Found tucked behind Amores beach, there is an activity park that has plenty to please all ages. There’s go-karting, beach-buggy and hover-kart riding, shooting, paintball, wall-climbing and bungee trampolining. For the less active of us, there is a pool inside a giant plastic ball, walking on rope bridges suspended between posts or zipping down a modest zip-line. There is something for everyone in this adrenalin -filled park.
Rocka Beach Lounge
This incredible restaurant overlooks Praia Brava beach, attracting a more relaxed client after breakfast who generally stay for lunch, tea and dinner, drinking leisurely in between. It’s easy to see the appeal of this laid-back life, the food is excellent – spicy lobster-mosques stews, chimichurri sirloin, squid-ink paella and chocolate souffle. If you are looking for something lighter you can nibble on Brazilian petiscos (tapas) on snacks like cod balls, fresh scallops and oysters. To wash it all down, ask for a bottle of crisp Argentine white or an ice-cold, refreshing beer.
Rua das Pedras
Buzios still maintains its village-like vibe on Rua das Pedras, literally translated to “cobblestone street”. The old cottages of the 1960s have long since morphed into bohemian boutiques and cafes. Restaurants cluster over the water and are popular spots for sunset cocktails. Even if you just wander around, Rua das Pedras has a lovely, leisurely atmosphere. Things get a little busier when the cruise ships anchor and the streets become a lot more filled with visitors.
Party at Privilege
Under the same ownership as Privilege in Ibiza, Privilege Buzios is one of the most upbeat, party spots for miles around. Spread over two floors, with four bars where the in-crowd hang out, metres deep. You’ll find it on the Orla Bardot waterfront and is instantly recognised by the sound of deep house music. This is one of the best nights out in Buzios.
Praia da Tartaruga
With calm waters and unspoiled beaches, Praia da Tartaruga is on every visitor’s list. It’s an ideal place for snorkelling and one of the best places in Buzios to observe sea-turtles. There are seafront kiosks selling snacks, icy beers and strong caipirinhas that make for perfect beach days. Hang around until the sun sets and on Praia da Tartaruga you’ve got front-row seats for Buzio’s best views at sundown.
The Brigitte Bardot statue
One of the most scenic spots in Buzios is the Orla Bardot, a seafront walk that follows the spectacular coastline and everyone’s idea of the perfect afternoon stroll. At the end of the walkway is the statue of French film star Brigitte Bardot, created by Sao Paulo-born sculptor Christina Motta. Bardot helped shine the spotlight on the Buzios when she rocked up in 1964 for a quiet vacation.
Igreja de Sant'Ana church
This small church is perfectly -balanced on a hill above the Praia dos Ossos beach. It dates back to the 1700s and the colonial architecture is a reminder of Portuguese settlers who made their home here. The centuries have done little to diminish its attraction and the faithful come every Saturday afternoon for mass. If mass isn´t your thing, just sitting outside, relaxing in the sun, is a great way to while away an afternoon. This too is an excellent spot to see the stunning sunset.
