Arraial do Cabo is a beach-lovers paradise, thriving fishing village and wildlife-spotting wonderland all rolled into one. Its natural beauty ranges from a coastline of fine, sugar-like sand and perfect turquoise water, to lagoons, rolling dunes and hills clad in Atlantic forest. Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci established a trading post in Arraial do Cabo in 1503. It is often called the Brazilian Caribbean.
Within a short walk from the city center, which sits on a peninsula, you’ll be able to feel the sand between your toes and plunge into the warm ocean. The closest beaches are Dos Anjos Beach and the sprawling Grande Beach. Witness time-honored fishing traditions at Forno Port and then hike over the headland to Forno Beach. Bathe in the calm waters and kick back at the waterfront bars at Prainha Beach.
Bike, drive or hike to Atalaia Viewpoint, which affords superb views toward the southern tip of the city’s peninsula. Continue from here past Brava Beach to Pontal do Atalaia Beach. Find more coastal pleasures at Cabo Frio Island, just a short boat ride from Forno Port. Spot dolphins and stingrays from the shoreline and go snorkeling and scuba diving at Gruta Azul.
Be sure to dedicate time to discovering the city’s historical attractions. Our Lady of Remedies Church dates back to 1506 and was the site of Brazil’s first indoor mass service. Near here is a memorial to the arrival of Amerigo Vespucci. Another landmark is Arraial do Cabo Municipal City Hall.
Find bars, restaurants, market stalls and nightclubs set on and around Daniel Barreto de Marco Square (Praça do Cova). Browse exhibitions of art and fishing artifacts at Manoel Camargo Cultural Center. Hermes Barcellos Public Park has a children’s playground and an ornamental lake.
Arraial do Cabo is about 100 miles (160 kilometers) east of Río de Janeiro where buses depart regularly from the Novo Rio Bus Terminal. Expect mild temperatures year round and heavy downpours in summer. Visit in April for the Calamari Festival or from June to September to watch humpback whales swim by.
