Things To Do
in Santa Mariana
Santa Mariana is a sun-kissed coastal town in southern Brazil where small-scale fishing boats share the harbor with modern cafés and colorful façades. The city blends colonial charm with a lively waterfront scene, offering easy access to beaches, mangroves, and gentle river journeys. Visitors will find a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and a strong focus on seafood and local produce.
With convenient access to nature, culture, and waterfront dining, Santa Mariana makes for a well-rounded Brazilian escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy delicious Brazilian pastries and strong coffee. Afterward, take a guided walking tour of Santa Mariana's historic center, visiting landmarks such as the Church of São Sebastião and the charming colonial architecture. Capture the vibrant street art that brings the city to life as you stroll through its picturesque streets.
Savor a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can taste regional dishes like feijoada or moqueca. Post-lunch, explore the Museu Histórico de Santa Mariana to delve into the rich history and culture of the region. Spend some time at the local artisan market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, dine at a rooftop restaurant offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Try some local delicacies while listening to live Brazilian music, which enhances the vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the city square, enjoying the lively ambiance and perhaps stopping for a dessert at an ice cream shop.
After an early breakfast, head to the Parque Estadual de Vila Velha for a morning immersed in nature. Begin your hike on one of the well-marked trails, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of local wildlife. Be sure to take plenty of photos of the stunning rock formations and unique sandstone towers that define the park.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning backdrop of the park, taking in the breathtaking views around you. In the afternoon, continue exploring the park’s diverse trails, perhaps visiting the famous Furnas and Vôo do Cão, natural wells that offer a glimpse into the area's geological history. Keep your eyes peeled for native bird species as you hike.
Head back to Santa Mariana and unwind at a casual eatery with a focus on regional cuisine. As you enjoy your meal, reflect on the day's adventures in nature and the beauty you experienced. If you're in the mood, stop by a local bar to enjoy a refreshing caipirinha while mingling with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee or breakfast | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transit day pass | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or small gift | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact city with easy access to beaches and mangroves
- Friendly locals and approachable coastal cuisine
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Occasional coastal humidity and tropical showers
- "Oi" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu falo um pouco de português" - I speak a little Portuguese
Places to Visit in Santa Mariana
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic square near the lighthouse with iconic coastal views and colorful architecture—perfect for sunrise shots.
A walls-and-street-art corridor that offers bold colors and dynamic textures against old buildings.
The long wooden pier provides silhouettes of boats against a warm sunset backdrop.
A hilltop overlook with sweeping views of the harbor, mangroves, and distant beaches.
Food in Santa Mariana
Santa Mariana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish stew cooked in coconut milk, dendê oil, and peppers, best enjoyed with fresh farinha and rice.
Must-Try!
A comforting porridge made from cornmeal or cassava flour served with fish or seafood.
Coconut-flavored rice paired with grilled fish, a staple at seaside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Coastal market where you can grab fresh fish, tropical fruits, and ready-to-eat snacks like pastéis and tapiocas.
A cluster of stalls offering fritters, grilled skewers, and sweet treats—great for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact; among friends, a brief kiss on the cheek is common. Address elders formally in public.
Portuguese is the primary language. In tourist areas, many staff speak basic English; learning a few phrases helps a lot.
Avoid loud behavior in quiet public areas; dress modestly when visiting churches and formal venues.
Social events tend to have a relaxed start time; plan with a flexible approach but be on time for business appointments.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Mariana
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a service charge of 5-10% is common; if included in the bill, tipping is optional. For good service, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is appreciated.
Cash and cards are widely accepted. PIX is popular for quick transfers; many vendors accept contactless payments, but smaller stalls may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent tropical showers. Expect busy beaches, lively evenings, and late sunsets by the water.
More temperate days and cooler nights. Lower humidity makes outdoor exploring very pleasant.
Mild to cool days with cooler evenings; beach visits are comfortable with light layers.
Warming temperatures and occasional rain showers; great for hiking and street markets as flowers bloom.
Santa Mariana at Night
Hiking in Santa Mariana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate coastal hike with ocean views and a shaded forest path, ending at a lookout point.
A rainforest trail offering birdwatching opportunities and a cooler microclimate.
Airports
How to reach Santa Mariana by plane.
Small regional airport with domestic flights and seasonal international charters; typically connects to major Brazilian hubs.
Larger nearby airport offering domestic and some international routes; good for longer connections via major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and young professionals who migrated to the coast for lifestyle and work opportunities.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to seafood cuisine, beaches, and waterfront culture.
Nearby campuses and exchange programs add a youthful dynamic to the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region loves football, with local leagues and informal games on beach fields.
Popular in the afternoons and weekends, with pickup games at several public beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Mariana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for moqueca de abobrinha (zucchini moqueca) or pirão with vegetables; request olive oil-based dressings and avoid fish-based broths. Most market stalls and larger restaurants can prepare vegetarian options on request.