Saquarema(Brazil) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Saquarema, recommend staying at Pousada Praia do Sambaqui, a seaside resort located on the tranquil Sambaqui Bay. This family-oriented pousada offers private beach access, a children’s pool, and spacious family suites. With traditional Brazilian architecture and modern amenities, it’s just steps from local markets and seafood restaurants.

Another excellent choice is Vila dos Sonhos Pousada, nestled on a hillside with panoramic ocean views. It features an infinity pool and healthy dining options, ideal for families seeking tranquility and nature. Both properties are close to the São Miguel Church and historic center, making cultural exploration easy. The surrounding Iguaçu River Mouth Natural Reserve also offers kid-friendly eco-tours like canoeing and birdwatching.

The best areas to stay in Saquarema are the downtown (Centro) and the Sambaqui Bay region. Downtown offers convenient access to São Miguel Church, local markets, and historic buildings—perfect for travelers who enjoy cultural immersion.

Sambaqui Bay, meanwhile, boasts serene white-sand beaches and clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water activities. This area hosts numerous boutique pousadas and seaside cottages, such as Pousada da Praia and Casa das Palmeiras, offering warm hospitality and authentic regional cuisine. Nearby, the Iguaçu River Mouth Natural Reserve provides opportunities for kayaking and wildlife observation, blending leisure with adventure. Both zones offer a balanced mix of accessibility and natural beauty.

Visitors to Saquarema should not miss visiting the São Miguel Church (Igreja de São Miguel), a 18th-century colonial-era church showcasing Portuguese-Brazilian architectural fusion.

Additionally, attend the annual Festival da Praia, held during summer, which blends music, dance, and traditional craft fairs celebrating local fishing culture and indigenous art.

Explore the local fishing villages, participate in a hands-on fish sorting workshop, and savor authentic "Moqueca de Peixe" (Brazilian fish stew). These immersive experiences provide deep insight into community life while supporting sustainable tourism and local heritage.

Must-try dishes in Saquarema include "Moqueca de Peixe", a rich fish stew cooked in coconut milk, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs, traditionally served with cassava rice. Its bold flavors reflect coastal culinary traditions.

Another highlight is "Baião de Dois", a classic Brazilian dish made from beans, rice, and dried meat, often enjoyed at family gatherings.

Don’t miss street vendors along the beach selling grilled corn, fried shrimp balls, and Caipirinha (Brazilian citrus cocktail), especially at sunset. For a true taste of local life, visit the Mercado Municipal de Saquarema, where century-old stalls serve homemade meals and handmade desserts—ideal for experiencing authentic regional cuisine.

Yes, the beaches in Saquarema are generally safe for swimming, particularly Sambaqui Bay, which features gentle waves, soft sand, and calm waters—ideal for families and beginners.

Lifeguards are stationed at key points, and safety buoys mark designated swimming zones. Facilities include shaded lounges, rental services (bikes, surfboards), and restrooms.

For a quieter experience, explore Praia do Coroa or Praia de Itaúna, less crowded and surrounded by lush vegetation. However, be mindful of tidal changes—some areas may have hidden currents. Always follow local signage. Overall, Saquarema’s beaches combine safety with scenic beauty, making them perfect for relaxation and water sports.

Near Saquarema, must-visit natural attractions include the Iguaçu River Mouth Natural Reserve, a wetland ecosystem rich in biodiversity, perfect for birdwatching and canoeing—home to herons, kingfishers, and even American crocodiles.

Also explore the Cachoeira do Rio São João waterfall cluster, hidden in dense forest trails leading to multi-tiered cascades. Ideal for light hiking and photography.

For panoramic views, hike to Morro do Curió, a hilltop offering 360-degree vistas of Saquarema Bay and the coastline—excellent for sunrise and sunset photography. All sites feature well-maintained paths and guided tours, with most open free to visitors. Perfect for eco-adventures and nature lovers.

For a romantic getaway in Saquarema, consider Pousada Vivero do Mar, a boutique seaside retreat on Sambaqui Bay known for its glass-walled rooms, infinity pools, and private terraces with ocean views. Each suite offers a secluded atmosphere, ideal for couples.

The hotel arranges intimate beachside dinners with chef-prepared seafood and live acoustic music. Special touches include stargazing sessions and nighttime yoga.

Another top pick is Casa das Palmeiras Boutique Hotel, perched on a hillside with tropical gardens and palm trees. Its elegant rooms feature outdoor showers and freestanding bathtubs, perfect for honeymooners. Both properties emphasize privacy, luxury, and personalized service—ideal for anniversaries or quiet escapes.

In Saquarema, public transportation is primarily via bus from Rio de Janeiro, taking 1.5 to 2 hours with frequent departures from the Rodoviária de Saquarema terminal.

Within the city, renting motorcycles or bicycles is popular for short trips to beaches and landmarks. Some pousadas offer shuttle services, especially to remote resorts.

For accessing nature reserves like the Iguaçu River Mouth Natural Reserve, hiring a private car or joining a guided tour is recommended due to limited public transit.

Note: Saquarema Airport is a small general aviation airfield used only by private aircraft and not open to commercial flights. Overall, biking and buses are the most practical options for local travel, while buses remain the best choice for intercity journeys.

The best time to visit Saquarema is from May to October, when the weather is dry and mild, with temperatures ranging from 20–26°C (68–79°F)—ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

This period features low rainfall, abundant sunshine, and calm seas, perfect for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. The annual Festival da Praia and local farmers’ markets also take place during these months, offering cultural immersion.

Avoid November to April, the rainy season, when sudden downpours and high humidity can disrupt plans and some trails may be closed. For fewer crowds and pleasant conditions, choose May or September—offering the best balance between weather, events, and tranquility.

In Saquarema, visit the Mercado Municipal de Saquarema, a historic market with over 100 stalls selling handmade jewelry, ceramics, embroidered fabrics, and local specialties like coconut candy and sea salt.

Many vendors are family-run, featuring indigenous motifs and ocean-inspired designs—great for unique souvenirs.

For contemporary finds, explore independent boutiques in the downtown district, offering limited-edition Brazilian fashion, artisanal perfumes, and eco-friendly goods.

Don’t miss the eco-market at Sambaqui Bay, where sustainable products like bamboo utensils and recycled fabric bags are sold—supporting local artisans and environmental causes. Shopping here combines authenticity, quality, and meaningful impact.