Things To Do
in Maricá
Maricá is a laid-back coastal city in Rio de Janeiro state known for its expansive lagoons and relaxed pace. It blends traditional Brazilian beach culture with nature-rich escapes just outside Rio de Janeiro proper. The town offers quiet beaches, wildlife-rich trails, and seafood-forward dishes that reflect its maritime roots.
Visitors can experience a less-touristy side of Brazil while still enjoying warm hospitality and scenic Atlantic views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Maricá's historic center, where colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Stop by the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Amparo, a beautiful church that dates back to the 18th century, and admire its stunning facade. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee from a local café as you take in the vibrant atmosphere of the town square.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your exploration by visiting the Museu de Arqueologia e Paleontologia, where fascinating exhibits showcase the region's rich history. Spend some time browsing the artisan shops, where you can find unique handcrafted souvenirs from local artists. As the day winds down, relax in the nearby Praça Conselheiro Macedo, a perfect spot for people-watching.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby restaurant to indulge in traditional Brazilian cuisine, savoring dishes such as feijoada or fresh seafood. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, where the sound of waves crashing creates a soothing ambiance. End your evening at a local bar, enjoying live music that captures the spirit of Maricá.
Start your beach day at Praia de Maricá, where golden sands meet clear blue waters perfect for swimming. Rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm bay, enjoying the warm Brazilian sun as you glide along the shoreline. Don't forget to grab a light breakfast from a beachside kiosk serving fresh fruits and pastries.
After a morning of activity, relax under an umbrella with a good book or take a dip in the ocean to cool off. Join a local beach volleyball game for some fun and friendly competition with fellow beachgoers. For lunch, sample some delicious grilled fish from a beachside restaurant, accompanied by refreshing coconut water.
As evening approaches, find a comfortable spot on the beach to witness a spectacular sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors. Afterward, head to a nearby beachfront bar for a caipirinha, Brazil's national cocktail, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Cap off your day with a beach bonfire, sharing stories with new friends under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🛥️Local activity (e.g., boat tour) | $20-40 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $40-60 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic staples) | $15-30 per week |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastlines and lagoons
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Good value for a beach destination near Rio
- Rich birdlife and nature trails
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Less English widely spoken outside tourist spots
- Some areas are car-dependent for easy beach access
- Seasonal crowding around peak beach times
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Maricá
Visit one of these nice places.
A vast, shallow lagoon with a mosaic of reeds and boats, perfect for wide-angle sunset shots.
Elevated viewpoints over the coastline and town provide sweeping panoramas and dramatic skies.
Long sandy beach lined with palm trees, ideal for sunrise silhouettes and seascapes.
Colorful façades, daily life scenes, and market activity offer vibrant street photography opportunities.
Food in Maricá
Maricá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish stew with coconut milk and dendê oil, typically served with rice and fresh lime.
Must-Try!
Creamy shrimp puree cooked with cassava (manioc) and coconut milk, offering a rich, smooth texture.
CrabShell baked with a creamy crust of crab meat, spices, and cheese, a seaside specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and prepared street foods; great for sampling snacks and ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; close friends may greet with a hug or cheek kiss. In formal settings, address people politely with senhor/senhora.
Portuguese is the primary language; learning a few basic phrases helps with interactions and shows respect.
Be mindful in religious sites and particularly in more traditional neighborhoods; ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Maricá
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory. In casual eateries, 5-10% is common if service is good; in nicer restaurants, 10-15% is typical unless a service charge is included.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments and PIX are increasingly common; some smaller markets may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; excellent for beach days and lagoon exploration; expect weekend crowds yet plenty of blue skies.
Warm days with cooler nights; comfortable for outdoor activities and scenic light without the peak humidity.
Milder daytime temperatures; evenings can be cooler; surf season is active; occasional rain can occur.
Pleasant temperatures and sea breezes, with blooming landscapes and good conditions for outdoor adventures.
Maricá at Night
Hiking in Maricá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate loop around the lagoon with water views and birdwatching opportunities.
Scenic route along coastal cliffs offering panoramic ocean vistas.
Airports
How to reach Maricá by plane.
Main international gateway; about 60-90 minutes by car from Maricá depending on traffic.
City airport serving domestic flights; convenient for quick domestic connections.
Regional airport closer to northern Rio state; primarily domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many locals are family-oriented and enjoy weekend lagoon and beach trips with children.
A significant portion of residents and visitors engage in coastal recreation.
Some residents choose Maricá for its climate and relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Brazil and widely played in parks and beaches.
Common on beaches and in community centers, especially during weekends.
Nearby beaches cater to varying skill levels and surf schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maricá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy salads, fruit, grains, legumes, and vegetable dishes; request moqueca or bobó without seafood, or opt for rice and beans with sautéed vegetables.