When we think about beaches in Rio de Janeiro, iconic spots like Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach usually come to mind. However, even within the city itself, there are other hidden paradises such as Grumari Beach and Prainha Beach in Rio de Janeiro, which has already been featured in beachesinrio.
As soon as we explore the beaches of the Marvelous City, we start thinking about more distant destinations, like those beaches of Ilha Grande, or the stunning coast of the Região dos Lagos, including the beaches of Búzios and the beaches of Arraial do Cabo, often referred to as the Brazilian Caribbean.
The truth is, the coastline of Rio de Janeiro is filled with incredible opportunities for beach lovers. While some beaches are world-famous, others remain lesser-known and hide unique natural beauty. One destination you definitely need to discover is Saquarema. Known as Brazil’s Surf Capital, it is located approximately 115 km (about 71 miles) from Rio de Janeiro and just a short distance from cities like Cabo Frio, Arraial do Cabo, and Armação dos Búzios.
In the photo below, you can admire the crystal-clear waters and powerful waves of Praia de Itaúna, often called the “Maracanã of Surf” for hosting major international competitions such as the World Surf League.
🔎 Did you know? The Maracanã Stadium is the most famous football stadium in the state of Rio de Janeiro and hosted the finals of the 1950 and 2014 FIFA World Cups. Saquarema is often called the “Maracanã of Surf” as a reference, due to its importance in the world of surfing and its role in hosting major international competitions.
Saquarema is part of the Região dos Lagos, a coastal area known for its beautiful ocean beaches and scenic lagoons. In the image below, you can see the stunning Lagoa de Saquarema at Praia da Barrinha, located right in front of the city’s most iconic landmark, the Paróquia Nossa Senhora de Nazareth.
One of the most important tourist attractions in the Região dos Lagos, with significant historical value, is the Paróquia Nossa Senhora de Nazareth in Saquarema. The first small chapel on this site was built in 1630, while the current structure dates back to 1837. The church enjoys a privileged location between the ocean and the Lagoa de Saquarema, creating a stunning setting that offers incredible photo opportunities.
In the photo, you can admire the Paróquia Nossa Senhora de Nazareth in the background, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean in Saquarema. The powerful waves crashing against the rocks are a signature feature of this iconic and scenic landmark in the Região dos Lagos of Rio de Janeiro.
Besides Praia de Itaúna, another nearby beach popular among surfers is Praia da Vila. With its crystal-clear blue waters, beautiful waves, and soft white sand, it’s an ideal spot for both surfing and relaxing. The beachfront is well-developed, offering kiosks, hotels, restaurants, and a promenade. In the photo below, you can appreciate the beauty of this beach during a sunny Brazilian winter day.
Best Beaches in Saquarema – Map & Directions
Getting to the main highlights of Saquarema is simple and convenient. The map is centered on the city’s most iconic landmark, the Paróquia de Nossa Senhora de Nazareth, located near the beautiful Lagoa de Saquarema. From this central point, you can easily explore some of the best beaches in the area, including Praia de Itaúna and Praia da Vila. By using navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze, you can quickly find the best routes and plan your visit with ease.
Best Time to Visit Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Saquarema is a year-round tourist destination. In Rio’s Lakes Region, winter can be surprisingly pleasant — many visitors even prefer it to summer. It’s common to enjoy sunny days, blue skies, and temperatures reaching up to 30 °C, even during the cooler months. Summer in Saquarema, on the other hand, is the busiest season, with crowded beaches, events, and lots of energy. Winter offers a quieter atmosphere and idyllic scenery, making it perfect for those seeking peace and closer contact with nature. The best time to visit depends on each traveler’s profile: those looking for excitement and nightlife usually choose summer, while those who prefer tranquility and natural beauty tend to enjoy winter more. And there are also those who fall in love with Saquarema and Lakes Region and end up visiting all year long.
Places to Visit Near Saquarema: Arraial do Cabo, Búzios and Cabo Frio
Saquarema is located in the Região dos Lagos, a coastal area in the state of Rio de Janeiro known for its stunning beaches and seaside towns. The region is close to destinations such as Búzios, known for its charming peninsula, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque beaches, Cabo Frio, famous for the beautiful Praia do Forte, and Arraial do Cabo, often referred to as the Brazilian Caribbean due to its incredibly clear waters. All of these places are just a short drive away, making it easy for visitors to explore several remarkable destinations during the same trip.
Arraial do Cabo: The Brazilian Caribbean
If you are visiting Saquarema, it is definitely worth taking a short trip to nearby Arraial do Cabo. Often called the Brazilian Caribbean, the destination is famous for its incredibly clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and dramatic coastal landscapes. Just a short drive away, Arraial offers visitors the chance to experience some of the most breathtaking beaches in Brazil, making it a perfect addition to any itinerary in the Lakes Region.
You can read a detailed article with more photos and a map to discover more about the Brazilian Caribbean in the state of Rio de Janeiro.
👉 Pontal do Atalaia, Arraial do Cabo: The Brazilian Caribbean with Crystal-Clear Beaches
Búzios: The Charming Peninsula
In the Lakes Region, you simply cannot miss visiting Armação dos Búzios. Known for its charming atmosphere and stunning coastline, Búzios offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and sophistication. With its crystal-clear waters, picturesque beaches, and vibrant dining and nightlife scene, the destination has become one of the most sought-after getaways in Brazil.
You can read a detailed article with more photos and a map to discover more about Búzios in the state of Rio de Janeiro.
👉 Exploring The Best Beaches Along the Búzios Coast
Cabo Frio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
During your visit, don’t miss the chance to visit Praia do Forte and the iconic Forte São Mateus—one of the oldest buildings in the Lakes Region of Rio.
Built during the colonial period, the fort was constructed with the purpose of protecting the Brazilian coast. Its location occupies a strategic position that once guarded the entrance from the sea toward the Araruama Lagoon, an important access route at the time. With its stone walls, historic cannons, and panoramic views, São Mateus Fort is more than just a tourist attraction — it’s a true journey into Brazil’s past. Considered one of the oldest structures in the Lakes Region, a visit to the fort is an invitation to step back in time while admiring the natural beauty of Cabo Frio.
🔎 Did you know? In Portuguese, the word “forte” refers to a “fort” in English — a fortified structure built to protect coastal areas or strategic points. Many forts in Brazil date back to colonial times and still stand today as historical landmarks.
Discover 🏖️ Praia do Forte, Cabo Frio: top beaches in Rio’s Lakes Region
How Far Is Saquarema from Rio de Janeiro by Car? Distance and Travel Time
If you’re visiting Rio de Janeiro, consider extending your trip to include Saquarema, Arraial do Cabo, Búzios, and Cabo Frio —these stunning beach towns located in the Região dos Lagos (Lakes Region), just a few hours from the Rio de Janeiro city. Saquarema is approximately 115 km (about 71 miles) from Rio de Janeiro and takes around 2 hours to reach by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.
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Stay tuned—we’ll be diving deeper into each of these stunning spots in upcoming articles. Until then, enjoy the sun, catch some waves, and we’ll see you on the next beach! 🌊☀️