Things To Do
in São Sebastião
São Sebastião is a sun-soaked coastal municipality in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, perched between lush Atlantic forest and a string of pristine beaches. It blends a traditional caiçara fishing heritage with growing resort and surf culture, creating a lively yet laid-back vibe. The town serves as a gateway to the nearby Ilhabela archipelago, offering boat trips, snorkeling, and breezy seaside dining.
In peak season, the area buzzes with visitors from across Brazil and beyond, while quieter months reveal a more relaxed pace and affordable beach experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in São Sebastião and check into your beachfront accommodation. Spend the morning soaking in the sun and enjoying the soothing ocean waves. Grab a beachside brunch at a local café to get a taste of fresh Brazilian cuisine.
Take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront promenade, visiting local shops and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Consider booking a boat tour to explore nearby coves and secluded beaches. Relish the beauty of the coastline and capture stunning photos.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant renowned for its seafood dishes. Sample regional delicacies while breathing in the ocean air. Enjoy a relaxing evening walk on the beach, illuminated by the moonlight.
Visit the historical center of São Sebastião, where colonial architecture tells the story of the city's rich past. Stop by the Church of Saint Benedict, an important landmark, and explore local artisan shops. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Brazilian coffee at a quaint café nearby.
Head to the local market to discover vibrant crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs. Engage with friendly vendors and try local treats, such as pastéis and coxinhas. Spend some time at the nearby cultural center featuring rotating art exhibitions and performances.
Attend a traditional Brazilian music show, taking in the rhythms of samba and bossa nova. Savor dinner at a restaurant offering a mix of local specialties and international flavors. Afterward, enjoy a nightcap at a cozy bar, mingling with fellow travelers and locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥤Soft drink (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🧃Water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with clear water
- Casual, laid-back vibe and friendly Caiçara culture
- Good value for water-based activities
- Tourist crowds in peak season
- Some beach areas have strong currents and rip tides
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
- "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept card?
- "Pode me chamar de…?" - Can you call me by…? (name)
Places to Visit in São Sebastião
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic lighthouse spot with expansive ocean views and dramatic sunsets over the open sea.
Long stretch of sand and consistent surf framed by lush green hills—great for wide-angle beachscapes.
Rock formations, clear water, and soft light perfect for nature and seascape photography.
Marina lights, boats, and reflections along the harbor provide moody harbor photography.
Wide, palm-fringed beach with soft sand and gentle waves ideal for long exposure shots.
Food in São Sebastião
São Sebastião Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coconut-milk fish stew seasoned with herbs and served with rice and farofa, a regional take on seafood stew.
Must-Try!
Grilled whole fish with toasted cassava flour (farofa) and dende oil, a common coastal preparation.
Shrimp cooked in a pumpkin shell, a visually appealing and tasty seaside specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling fish market and produce hub where you can sample fresh seafood and local produce.
Casual street bites like pastel, tapioca, and fried fish served hot from beach kiosks along several beaches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde' and a handshake or kiss on the cheek among friends; in formal settings, address by title and surname.
Respect local beaches and modest dress in town centers; swimwear is for the beach, not urban streets.
Casual timekeeping is common; polite conversation and small talk about family and football are normal social starting points.
Safety
Tipping in São Sebastião
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically not included by law in Brazil; a 5-10% tip is common in nicer restaurants if service is not already added, and smaller tips are appreciated in casual spots.
Cash and cards (credit/debit) are widely accepted; some smaller vendors prefer cash. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February brings hot, humid days with frequent tropical showers and vibrant beach crowds. Sea temperatures rise and waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. Expect higher prices and busier beaches.
March to May offers milder days and less crowding; surf remains good on many beaches and hotel rates start to fall.
June to August is cooler and drier with comfortable daytime temperatures; evenings can be chilly, especially near the coast. Still great for hiking and exploring without the peak-season heat.
September to November brings warming temperatures, improving water clarity for snorkeling and continued good surfing conditions.
São Sebastião at Night
Hiking in São Sebastião
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep coastal trail to a summit with panoramic ocean views; best with a guide.
Forest waterfall hike that pairs well with a coastal coastline route.
Numerous forested trails offering viewpoints, waterfalls, and beaches; accessible by ferry from São Sebastião.
Airports
How to reach São Sebastião by plane.
Main international gateway for São Paulo; about 180-200 km from São Sebastião; transfer by road or bus.
City-focused airport in São Paulo; similar distance and convenient for domestic flights.
Smaller regional airport about 60-90 km away; convenient for some routes and smaller aircraft.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Caiçaras families with deep ties to fishing and coastal living.
A large seasonal influx, particularly for beaches like Maresias and Juquehy.
Popular mix across beaches with family-friendly options and surf culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Maresias and other beaches offer reliable waves and a thriving surf culture.
Common on beaches and in clubs; many locals and visitors partake.
Coastal waters provide accessible snorkeling and paddling opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Sebastião.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on rice, beans, salads, grilled vegetables, and à la carte veggie options; ask for no dendê oil in dishes where possible.