Paraty is ringed by beautiful, exotic beaches.
The colonial and cultural jewel of Paraty might be known more for its quaint architecture and annual literature festival, but like the rest of coastal Brazil, this town has more than its fair share of beaches to brag about. In fact, some 50 sprawling beaches ring the coastline in and around Paraty, accessible by car, bus, and, in some cases, exclusively by boat.
Located on the Costa Verde, a lush stretch of Brazilian coast bordered by the Atlantic rainforest, halfway between the cities of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Paraty offers beachgoers a choice of sandy or rocky strands replete with breathtaking views, hiking and riding trails, and plenty of opportunities for scuba diving and suntanning. Visitors can even find beaches just steps from central Paraty: Praia do Jabaquara offers families calm water and simple diversions while Praia do Pontal serves up cold beer and hot bods.
To the east of town, a series of nearly inaccessible beaches skirt the jagged coastline. One can get to these sandy shores by hired launch, usually operated by local villagers who also sell delicious meals featuring fresh seafood and any number of Brazil’s succulent indigenous fruits. All the colors of paradise are represented at the various beaches here, from the red-tinged sands of Praia Vermelha to the powdery white strand at Praia Engenho d’Água to the turquoise waters of Praia Jurumirim.
Trindade is a small beach village located just a few miles to the south of town, and offers Paraty’s most remarkable beaches. Stunning vistas of sea and escarpment make beaches such as Praia Cachadaço and Praia do Meio destinations in themselves. Don’t miss the piscina natural – natural pools created by boulders located on the south edge of town, accessible by foot or a quick boat ride. And for an even more intimate, Blue Lagoon-like experience, hike over to Praia Brava and imagine yourself having a dip in the nude. But please keep your swimsuit on.
Be sure to head out to one of the area’s beautiful secluded beaches on a Paraty schooner cruise and snorkeling tour.
-Contributed by Ernest White II
