Things To Do
in Itanhaém
Itanhaém is a historic coastal town in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, where colonial charm meets wide sandy beaches. Founded in the 16th century, it preserves a compact historic center anchored by the church Nossa Senhora da Conceição and old waterfront lanes. The town is known for fresh seafood, calm shores, and a family-friendly vibe that appeals to relaxed travelers.
Its natural setting includes nearby mangroves, restinga forests, and easy access to coastal scenery and cultural sights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Itanhaém and settle into your chosen pousada near the beach. Head to Costa do Sol for a morning swim or stand-up paddle session amid gentle waves. Take in the coastal breeze and watch local fishermen preparing their boats.
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a beachfront barraca serving moqueca and ceviche. Relax on the golden sand while reading a book or playing beach volleyball with locals. Cool off with a coconut water and explore small craft stalls along the shore.
Climb up to Pontal da Praia for a stunning Atlantic sunset panorama. Sample regional dishes like camarão na moranga at a lively restaurant by the water. Stroll along the illuminated Avenida Beira-Mar and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
Begin the day in the Centro Histórico exploring the colonial architecture along Rua Siqueira Campos. Visit the Igreja Matriz de Sant’Anna and admire its baroque details. Chat with local artisans showcasing handcrafted souvenirs in quaint storefronts.
Enjoy lunch at a traditional botequim serving feijoada with caipirinha. Head to the Casa Paroquial museum to learn about Itanhaém’s centuries-old heritage. Wander through shady squares and discover colorful murals depicting local legends.
Watch a live presentation at the Teatro de Seraphim Gonzaga featuring folk dances. Taste tapioca pancakes from street vendors under the soft glow of lanterns. Unwind with a walk along the Don Pedro I pier listening to the gentle lapping of waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚎Public transport fare | $1-2 |
| 🏨1 night in budget hotel | $40-70 |
| 🛍️Souvenir / groceries | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and a historic center
- Excellent seafood and a relaxed vibe
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds during holidays
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
- "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Itanhaém
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial church in the historic center with a white façade and a classic bell tower, ideal for daytime and golden-hour shots.
Narrow streets, colorful doors, and traditional façades perfect for architectural and street photography.
Long sandy beach framed by mangroves and fishing boats; great for wide-angle coastal photography at sunrise.
Coastal viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic, ideal for sweeping horizon shots.
Food in Itanhaém
Itanhaém Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A light fish stew with vegetables, typically served with rice and pirão, enjoyed at seafood restaurants near the harbor.
Must-Try!
Fragrant fish stew made with coconut milk, peppers, and dendê oil, common along the coast.
Whole fried fish served with rice, beans, and salad; a staple at beachfront eateries.
Shrimp sautéed with garlic and herbs, often paired with cassava or rice.
Comforting fish soup popular on cooler evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and regional snacks.
Beachfront stalls serving fried fish, pastel, coconut water, and other casual bites along the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with bom dia / boa tarde / boa noite; use senhor or senhora when addressing adults.
Be respectful at religious sites; modest dress is advisable; remove hats indoors where appropriate.
Keep noise reasonable in residential areas and on public transport; avoid blocking doorways or aisles.
Safety
Tipping in Itanhaém
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% at restaurants if service is good; some venues include a service charge.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; smaller vendors may prefer cash; check card acceptance at kiosks and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dec-Feb: hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; bring sun protection and stay hydrated; beach time is peak season.
Mar-May: warm days with cooler nights; pleasant for hiking and exploring outdoor markets.
Jun-Aug: milder temperatures; sunny days are common; evenings can be cool; still comfortable for beach visits on sunny days.
Sep-Nov: warming weather with occasional rain; ideal for outdoor activities and photography without peak heat.
Itanhaém at Night
Hiking in Itanhaém
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal restinga hike along the Guaraú area with mangrove viewpoints.
Atlantic forest hike with potential wildlife and viewpoints; guided tours available.
Airports
How to reach Itanhaém by plane.
Major international hub about 140-180 km from Itanhaém; best for international flights and long-haul connections.
City airport with primarily domestic flights; about 120-150 km away; convenient for short trips.
Regional airport with domestic flights; about 150-180 km away; alternative access point.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit Itanhaém for beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
A steady flow of weekend visitors from nearby cities.
Descendants of traditional coastal communities with fishing roots.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in town; local matches and pickup games are common.
Beaches along Itanhaem attract surfers, especially in summer and autumn.
Water sports available on calmer days along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Itanhaém.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most places; order rice, beans, salads, and veggie sides; ask for substitutions as needed.