Things To Do
in Macaé

Macaé is a coastal city located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant oil industry, it offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Portuguese colonization and indigenous communities.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, delicious local cuisine, and a lively nightlife scene.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Praia dos Cavaleiros, where you can relax on the sandy beach and enjoy the stunning ocean views.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Parque Natural Municipal da Serra da Cruz for a hike and enjoy the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant such as Restaurante do Léo, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Historical Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Museu de Arte de Macaé to learn about the city's history and admire local art.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the historical center, including landmarks such as the Igreja de São João Batista.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local bar in the Centro neighborhood, where you can enjoy live music and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🏨Hotel per night$50
🚍Public transport ticket$1
🍺Beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning beaches and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Vibrant nightlife and local cuisine
  • Tourist crowds during peak season
  • Limited public transport options
  • Some areas may feel less safe at night
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Macaé

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia dos Cavaleiros

This beach provides picturesque sunset views, perfect for capturing the vibrant colors of the sky.

Parque Natural Municipal da Serra da Cruz

A hiking trail with panoramic views of the coastline, ideal for landscape photography.

Igreja de São João Batista

This historical church offers beautiful architecture and is surrounded by charming colonial buildings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Macaé

Macaé offers a rich culinary scene that reflects its coastal heritage and cultural influences.

Macaé Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Feijoada

A hearty black bean stew with pork, typically served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira de Artesanato

A local craft fair where you can find homemade food items, fresh produce, and artisan goods.

Street Vendors at Praia dos Cavaleiros

Numerous vendors selling snacks like pastéis (fried pastries) and acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters).

Climate Guide

Weather

Macaé has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The summer months (December to February) are hot and humid, while winters (June to August) are mild and dry. Rainfall is more common from November to March, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella during these months. The temperature typically ranges from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or a friendly hug is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dress Code

Dress is generally casual, but smart attire is appreciated in restaurants.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is acceptable, but it's polite to inform someone if you're running behind.

Safety Guide

Safety

Macaé is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take common precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public, stay in well-populated areas, and use reputable transportation. Be cautious when walking alone at night, especially in less crowded neighborhoods.

Tipping in Macaé

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of 10% is customary in restaurants, but check if a service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm weather and a bustling beach scene; it's the peak tourist season.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures and fewer crowds make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures, but still pleasant; ideal for hiking and exploring cultural sites.

Spring (September to November)

Warm weather returns, and the landscape is lush and vibrant, perfect for outdoor photography.

Nightlife Guide

Macaé at Night

Macaé has a vibrant nightlife scene, primarily concentrated in the Centro area. Local bars often feature live music, ranging from samba to rock. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, allowing patrons to enjoy the warm evenings. Additionally, there are dance clubs where you can enjoy various music genres, making it a lively place to socialize after dark.

Hiking in Macaé

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha da Pedra do Elefante

A moderate hiking trail that leads to a rock formation resembling an elephant, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

Trilha da Serra do Macaé

This trail provides a challenging hike through lush forests, perfect for experienced hikers seeking adventure.

Airports

How to reach Macaé by plane.

Macaé Airport (MEA)

Located just 10 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and serves as the main entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Macaé's city center is quite walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy reach. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some beaches and parks may require transportation to access, so plan your route accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population is Brazilian, with a mix of indigenous, African, and European ancestry.

Tourists

Visitors from various parts of Brazil and abroad come to Macaé for its beaches and cultural attractions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Macaé, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Surfing

With its excellent beaches, surfing is a favored activity among locals and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Macaé can be congested during peak hours, particularly in the city center. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, with ride-sharing services also available. Consider using public transport or walking when possible to avoid traffic jams.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Macaé.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's best to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's advisable to communicate restrictions clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Macaé has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. The quality of care is generally good, with both public and private options available. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare can be costly for non-residents.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide