Búzios

An upscale beach town on a peninsula with 17 beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and a charming promenade with excellent seafood restaurants. It's known for its sophisticated atmosphere, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Things to do

• Praia de Manguinhos — A calm, family-friendly beach with golden sand and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and water sports.
• Orla Bardot Promenade — The iconic waterfront walkway lined with upscale restaurants, bars, and shops where you can stroll and watch the sunset.
• Praia da Tartaruga — A scenic beach known for its clear turquoise waters and sea turtle sightings, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
• Boat Tours Around the Peninsula — Guided boat trips departing from the marina that visit hidden coves, remote beaches, and offer opportunities for swimming and dolphin spotting.
• Praia Brava — A dramatic, secluded beach on the peninsula's east side with rougher waves, popular with surfers and adventurous swimmers.
• Chapel of Santa Ana — A historic 16th-century chapel perched on the peninsula offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Búzios' colonial past.

Food to try

• Moqueca de Peixe — A traditional Brazilian seafood stew made with fresh fish, coconut milk, palm oil, and dendê, served with rice and farofa.
• Grilled Red Snapper (Pargo à Grelhada) — Fresh locally-caught red snapper seasoned simply with lime and herbs, grilled whole and served at waterfront restaurants.
• Pastel de Camarão — Crispy fried pastries filled with seasoned shrimp, served as an appetizer or snack at beachside stands and bars.
• Seafood Risotto (Risoto de Frutos do Mar) — Creamy arborio rice cooked with fresh local shrimp, fish, and sometimes lobster, finished with white wine and fresh herbs.
• Ceviche à Buziana — Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice with local fruits, peppers, and coconut milk, reflecting the town's sophisticated culinary style.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Code Consciousness — Búzios is an upscale destination where beachwear transitions to resort casual in the evening; dress smartly for dinner at better restaurants along the Orla.
• Peak Season Awareness — December to February and school holidays see significant crowds and higher prices; visiting in shoulder seasons offers better value and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Portuguese Greetings Matter — Learning basic Portuguese phrases like 'Oi' and 'obrigado' is appreciated in this upscale but still quintessentially Brazilian town.
• Beach Culture and Sunsets — Brazilians gather on beaches during late afternoon for social time and to watch the sunset; joining this ritual is a true local experience.