Paraty, Brazil, Is a Beach Paradise Worth the Detour

Forte Defensor Perpétuo

A great first-day activity is a short and easy hike up to the former 17th-century fort turned museum overlooking Paraty’s bay. The museum is a quick study of Paraty’s history and offers amazing views of the town and, on a clear day, many of the surrounding islands (grab your binoculars to see even more of them.)

Praia do Pontal or Jabaquara

Known as the “city beaches,” both are great spots to grab a cachaça cocktail or Brazilian beer from a kiosk and lounge on the sand to watch the harbor traffic. The unique clay mud feels a little weird on the feet but is rumored to have beneficial powers for your skin.

Colonial walking tour

Stroll along the cobbled streets counting the painted doors and festive flags hanging between the buildings. There are several historic buildings and churches to visit. Wear sunscreen—the sun sneaks up on you.

Fazenda Bananal

Take an early-morning birdwatching tour at the conservation area at Fazenda Bananal, located in the Atlantic Forest just outside of the city center. The Atlantic Forest is one of the most biodiverse biomes in the world and you’ll have the opportunity to see and hear a variety of native and endemic species, and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot a sloth in the tall trees.

Sem Pressa

This one-of-a-kind private culinary and boating experience created by chef Gisela Schmitt is a must. Spend five hours gourmet eating, drinking, and boating on a locally made traditional wooden boat through the Baia do Paraty, stopping for swims and paddleboarding in between.

Rent a bike

Paraty has a wonderful (and flat) bike/walk path along the canal with many locals biking to and from the city daily. It’s a great way to explore beyond the city center. There are several local companies and, for the experienced bikers, more options for mountain biking in the area.

Kayak

The Baia do Paraty is a great place for kayaking or canoeing with options for either early-morning sunrise or late-afternoon sunset tours. The water is generally calm, which makes kayaking an all-ages activity, and you’ll pass by some of the 65 islands in the bay, many full of mangroves and wildlife.

Fugu Paraty

Get your sushi fix at Fugu where the fish is caught daily and the service is exceptional. Sit at the bar and you’ll be able to watch Chef Eduardo at work. Make sure to order one of the “boxes,” a fun, sushi-filled take on the traditional bento box.

Refugio

Located just steps from the water, Refugio serves traditional Brazilian seafood fare. Sit outside under the umbrellas if the weather allows. If you like shrimp, order the Camarão no Catupiry—everyone at my table wishes they’d ordered it.

Banana da Terra

Be ready for a lot of sumptuous coastal-inspired dishes that use bananas at Banana da Terra (the name isn’t hiding the love), but if bananas aren’t your jam, there are plenty of options to avoid them. Situated in a colonial home, it’s a renowned dining spot among locals and visitors alike.

Gastromar

If you can’t fit the Sem Pressa boat trip in your schedule, you can still enjoy Chef Gisela’s menu at her restaurant Gastromar. Enjoy a craft cocktail and nautical menu with a view of the marina and back towards Paraty city center.

Marina Restaurante

Situated at the end of the Praia do Pontal, Marina is a low-key spot with a great menu, wonderful view of the beach, and a cozy atmosphere.