Things To Do
in São Sebastião
São Sebastião is a picturesque coastal city located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Known for its stunning beaches and lush tropical landscapes, it attracts both tourists and locals looking to enjoy the sun and sea. The city offers a rich cultural experience with its historical architecture and vibrant local markets.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities, from surfing to hiking, making São Sebastião a perfect destination for adventure seekers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Praia de Maresias, known for its beautiful waves and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachside café with fresh fruits and acai bowls.
Visit the historic center of São Sebastião, including the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, and explore local artisan shops. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Brazilian cuisine.
Watch the sunset at Praia do Camburi, followed by dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and local drinks.
Hike the trails of the Serra do Mar State Park, taking in the breathtaking views of the coastline. Pack a picnic to have in the midst of nature.
Spend the afternoon at Praia das Conchas, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Grab a light lunch at a beach kiosk.
Experience São Sebastião's nightlife at a local bar, enjoying live music and mingling with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🏖️Beach chair rental | $5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $5-15 |
| 🛒Groceries (per week) | $30-50 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches and natural beauty
- Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine
- Various outdoor activities for adventure lovers
- Crowded during peak tourist seasons
- Limited public transport options
- Some areas may not be as well-maintained
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
- "Onde fica a praia?" - Where is the beach?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in São Sebastião
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its clear waters and scenic beauty, it's a perfect spot for capturing stunning sunset photos.
The historic center features colonial architecture and charming streets, ideal for capturing the essence of São Sebastião.
A lookout point offering panoramic views of the coastline, perfect for breathtaking landscape photography.
Food in São Sebastião
São Sebastião Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Brazilian fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, often served with rice.
Must-Try!
A crispy pastry filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or vegetables, commonly sold as street food.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local craft fair featuring artisan foods, crafts, and fresh produce, held every weekend.
Various stalls serving local snacks like coxinhas and empadas, perfect for a quick bite on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or cheek kisses are common as greetings, especially among locals.
Dress casually, but it's advisable to dress nicely when dining out or attending events.
Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it’s polite to engage in conversation during meals.
Safety
Tipping in São Sebastião
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, but check if a service charge is already included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry cash for small purchases and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and busy beaches, making it the peak tourist season.
Temperatures start to cool, and crowds thin out, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
While still mild, it's the coolest season, often with more rain. Ideal for indoor cultural activities.
Temperatures rise again, and the landscape blooms, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
São Sebastião at Night
Hiking in São Sebastião
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading from Camburi to the nearby beach of Praia do Capricórnio, featuring beautiful views of the coastline.
A challenging hike that rewards climbers with panoramic views of São Sebastião and surrounding areas.
Airports
How to reach São Sebastião by plane.
Located about 80 km from São Sebastião, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest major airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time locals and newcomers, contributing to a vibrant community with diverse backgrounds.
Visitors from Brazil and abroad, particularly during summer, who come to enjoy the beaches and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Surfing is a major sport in São Sebastião, particularly at beaches like Maresias, attracting surfers from all over.
Soccer is widely popular among locals, with various amateur teams and leagues playing throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Sebastião.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like grilled vegetables and salads, but it's advisable to check with the staff.
While some dishes are naturally gluten-free, such as fish and rice, it’s best to inquire about specific menu items.