Things To Do
in Garuva

A seafood stew made with fish or shrimp, coconut milk or palm oil variations, peppers and herbs — find it at family restaurants and beach kiosks.

Must-Try!

Fresh-caught fish simply seasoned and grilled over charcoal, commonly available at the fishing port restaurants and seaside grills.

Shrimp prepared in several ways—fried, in stews or grilled—are a regional highlight in many local eateries.

Although more typical of northeastern Brazil, you can find fried snacks, pastries and savory street options sold at kiosks and markets.

A good place to see the morning catch, buy fresh seafood directly from fishermen, and sample simple preparations nearby.

Small kiosks along the beach sell snacks, fried seafood, pastel-like pastries and cold drinks — ideal for casual bites.

Brazilians are generally warm and use handshakes or light cheek kisses among acquaintances; a friendly 'olá' or 'bom dia' is a polite opener.

Beachwear is fine on the sand but cover up when entering shops, restaurants or churches; being relaxed yet respectful goes a long way.

Informal social events may have relaxed time norms, but services and tours typically run on schedule — confirm times in advance.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially fishermen at work or private property; many locals are happy to be photographed if asked respectfully.

Restaurants sometimes include a 10% service charge; if not included, leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated. For small services (taxi drivers, porters, guides) tipping is discretionary — round up or leave a small amount for good service.

Credit and debit cards are accepted at many restaurants and stores, but smaller kiosks, markets and remote services often prefer cash. Carry some Brazilian reais for small purchases and check acceptance before relying on cards. ATMs are available but may be limited in smaller towns.

Warm to hot temperatures, high humidity and peak beach season; towns are livelier with domestic tourists, and services and kiosks are fully open. Expect afternoon showers at times; sunscreen and hydration are essential.

Temperatures gradually cool and rainfall remains moderate; beach crowds thin out, making this a pleasant time for nature outings and photography with softer light.

Milder, cooler conditions with the lowest temperatures of the year but generally mild compared with inland areas; fewer tourists and quieter services — good for budget travel but water may be cooler for swimming.

Warming weather, blooming coastal vegetation and increasing activity before summer; good for birdwatching and outdoor exploration as conditions improve.

Short hikes across sand dunes and along the shoreline offer panoramic coastal views and easy walking for most fitness levels.

Gentle, guided trails and informal paths through mangrove fringes are ideal for birdwatching and learning about local ecology.

Short hikes into nearby Atlantic Forest remnants give a taste of regional biodiversity — check local conservation areas or park signage for permitted routes and guided options.

Moderate trails to small coastal hills or lookouts provide sunrise/sunset vantage points and are often accessible as half-day excursions from town.

Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in larger cities; request rice, beans, salads, vegetable stews and cheese-based dishes at restaurants, and plan to explain preferences since menus focus on seafood and meat.

Vegan choices are modest — bring snacks or plan visits to larger nearby towns for more variety; many beach kiosks can prepare simple salads and rice if requested.

Gluten-free options are available (rice, grilled fish, salads), but cross-contamination can occur; communicate needs clearly and prefer freshly prepared traditional foods over processed items.

Seafood is pervasive — if you have shellfish or fish allergies, be explicit and consider eating at establishments that can guarantee separate preparation, or dine in nearby larger towns with more options.