Buzios
Travel Guide
Plan for Buzios with Local Expertise
Buzios at a glance
Buzios is one of the most beautiful places in Brazil, if not the world. Often making it into the top ten of the planet’s most stunning areas, Buzios, whose full name is Armação dos Búzios, started life as a quaint fishing village. It was initially settled by European pirates and slave traders but rose to fame when it Brigitte Bardot visited the town in 1964, putting its incredible beauty on the world stage. Since then, Buzios has transformed into the popular destination that it is today. Located on Brazil’s southern Atlantic coast, Buzios’ beaches are its biggest draw.
Our Buzios Travel Experts Recommend:
- Spot turtles at Praia da Tartaruga beach
- Get entertained by the locals on Rua das Pedras
- Fine wining and dining at Porto da Barra
- Take pictures & reminisce with the Brigitte Bardot statue
- Visit the Igreja de Sant’Ana Church
- Dig your feet deep into red sand at Praia do Forno
- Explore the surroundings of Buzios on a boat trip
25 tropical beaches dotted around this small peninsula draw both locals and foreigners all year round, who come to experience the variety of coastal enclaves that make up Buzios’ collection of idyllic beach spots. Each beach has its own unique character, so visitors are spoilt for choice. Manguinhos beach enjoys calm, tranquil waves, and many come here to learn how to sail and windsurf. The neighboring Geriba Beach draws surfers, windsurfers, and boogie-boarders to its long stretch of coastline, while Ferradura, or "Horseshoe" beach, is closer to the main town of Buzios and is ideal for snorkeling, a leisure activity found on all parts of the peninsula. The busiest beaches are Joao Fernandes and Joao Fernandinho, and this is where people go to see and be seen, chilling out in the many cafes, bars, and restaurants that line the beaches’ shores. One of the most coveted spots for sunbathing is at the enchanting Praia da Tartaruga, perhaps the area’s most unmissable beach.
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What not to miss
Buzios’ natural environment is one of unparalleled beauty, with lush green hills, islands and coastal alcoves contrasting against a cloudless azure sky and a blinding sun that beams all day long. It is the perfect place to relax and get away from the rest of the world, and visitors can unwind on a soothing boat trip that will take you into hidden beaches that are sheltered by the rocky cliffs. For those looking for fun and nightlife, there is plenty to keep you busy in Buzios, as downtown Buzios bustles with live music coming from bars and clubs, with dancing aplenty to be found almost everywhere, especially on the Rua das Pedras (Street of Stones). Foodies will delight in Buzios’ culinary scene, which draws on cuisine from all over the world. Interestingly, world cuisine in Buzios often has Brazilian flavors and ingredients at its core, so there is something of a fusion to be experienced when eating out in the area. Buzios is also known for its romantic atmosphere, which is perfect for a candlelit dinner or special occasion.
Fast Facts on Buzios
USEFUL TRAVELER INFORMATION
This section is a quick overview to help in planning your trip to Buzios.
When to go
Luckily for people planning on traveling to Buzios, the sun shines all year round, so there is no bad time to visit. Temperatures average 77ºF (25˚C) annually, so the weather is perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the many beaches that proliferate in this beautiful part of Brazil. Summer sees larger crowds coming into the area, so if you prefer a more quiet beach holiday, avoid visiting in December to March. Brazil’s school holidays fall in July, so this is another busy time of year for locals. Between April and August, crowds are smaller, and because this is low season, the prices are also more affordable than in the summer months. The ideal time to visit is perhaps between September and November between low and high season.
How to get there
Many international travelers visiting Buzios will fly into Rio de Janeiro, which is around 111 miles (180km) east of the city. Lots of international airlines operate direct flights from Europe and the US to Rio. There are also lots of domestic and regional flights that arrive in Rio, and all internal flights and transfers will be arranged for you as part of your itinerary. Buzios has its own airport, the Cabo Frio Airport, which is located about 18m from Buzios itself. A transfer from the airport to your hotel can be arranged for you, or alternatively, you can get a taxi. Once in Buzios, water taxis are the most efficient way to explore the many beaches and coves in this picturesque area.
Infrastructure
Because of Buzios’ popularity as a tourist destination, it is well equipped to cater for tourists, whether they are looking for high-end resorts or rustic cabins. The area’s luxury hotels offer stunning views of the ocean, and even the more affordable lodgings have panoramic vistas towards the sea. Regarding food, grab a delicious yet affordable bite on the beach, or treat yourself to a gourmet meal at one of the area’s top-class restaurants. All tastes are catered for, whether you are looking for local fare or international cuisines, with seafood always high on the menu. Fans of retail therapy will delight in the shopping options to be found on Buzios’ beaches, from independent boutiques to artisan market stalls.
