Things To Do
in Saquarema

Saquarema is a charming coastal town located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant surfing culture. The town offers a mix of natural beauty, historical architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. With its rich cultural heritage and warm climate, Saquarema serves as an ideal getaway for those looking to relax or engage in outdoor activities.

The town is also recognized for hosting various surf competitions, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Beaches and Culture
morning
:

Start your day at Praia de Itaúna, a popular surfing beach, where you can enjoy the waves or relax on the sand.

afternoon
:

Visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Nazareth, a historic church with beautiful architecture, followed by a stroll through the local artisan market.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a guided stand-up paddleboarding tour on the nearby lagoon, where you can observe local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Explore the natural beauty of the nearby Parque Natural Municipal de Saquarema, hiking along the scenic trails.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife at one of Saquarema's beach bars, enjoying live music and dancing.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10-$20
Cup of Coffee$2-$5
🛒Grocery Shopping (weekly)$30-$50
🏨Hotel Night$50-$100
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$3-$7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning beaches and natural scenery.
  • Vibrant surf culture and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and rich cultural heritage.
  • Limited options for nightlife outside peak season.
  • Public transportation may be unreliable.
  • Some areas can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Saquarema

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia de Itaúna

Known for its stunning sunsets and surf culture, this beach is perfect for capturing vibrant beach scenes.

Lagoa de Saquarema

A serene lagoon surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for tranquil landscape photography.

Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Nazareth

The church's beautiful architecture and hilltop location provide great panoramic views for stunning photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saquarema

Saquarema boasts a diverse culinary scene that celebrates both traditional Brazilian dishes and fresh seafood, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Saquarema Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Feijoada

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

Must-Try!

Moqueca

A flavorful fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices, traditionally served with rice.

Acarajé

Deep-fried ball of black-eyed pea dough, typically filled with shrimp and served with spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Praça da Igreja

A lively market area where you can find local street food vendors offering snacks like coxinhas and pastel.

Feira de Artesanato

An artisan market featuring local crafts and food stalls, perfect for sampling regional delights.

Climate Guide

Weather

Saquarema has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Summers can be hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild, averaging about 20°C (68°F). The rainy season occurs from December to March, with occasional heavy showers, while the dry season runs from April to November, providing plenty of sunshine.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a hug is common; Brazilians are generally warm and welcoming.

Dress Code

Beach attire is acceptable at the beach, but more formal clothing is expected in restaurants.

Respect for Culture

Show appreciation for local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Saquarema is generally safe for tourists, but it's recommended to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public, especially on the beach. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night and to use registered taxis or rideshare services for transportation.

Tipping in Saquarema

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of 10% is customary in restaurants; some places may include it in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot weather and crowded beaches, ideal for water activities and festivals.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a great time for hiking and exploring.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures, but still pleasant for beach walks and cultural events.

Spring (September - November)

Warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the local flora.

Nightlife Guide

Saquarema at Night

Saquarema offers a lively nightlife scene, particularly during weekends. Beach bars and clubs come alive with music, dancing, and socializing. Live bands often perform, and the atmosphere is vibrant, attracting both locals and tourists. Dance the night away at popular spots like 'Bar do Zé' or enjoy a quieter evening at a beachfront café.

Hiking in Saquarema

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro da Cruz

A scenic trail leading to a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Saquarema and the coastline.

Parque Natural Municipal de Saquarema

Features various trails through lush vegetation and wildlife, suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers.

Airports

How to reach Saquarema by plane.

Aeroporto de Cabo Frio (CFB)

Located approximately 30 km from Saquarema, this airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Saquarema is quite walkable, particularly in the town center and along the beachfront. Most local attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, although some areas may lack adequate pedestrian crossings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Brazilian families and individuals who have lived in the area for generations.

Tourists

Visitors from Brazil and abroad, especially surfers and families, frequent Saquarema during peak seasons.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

Saquarema is renowned for its surfing spots, attracting surfers from all over the world.

Beach Soccer

Beach soccer is a popular pastime among locals, with games often happening on the sandy shores.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Saquarema is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns, but schedules may vary. It's advisable to check local transportation options in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saquarema.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to ask for modifications when needed.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are limited, fresh fruits, seafood, and salads are generally safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Saquarema are accessible, with several clinics and a hospital available for emergencies. While major medical needs may require travel to larger cities like Rio de Janeiro, basic healthcare services are reliable. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide