Búzios

A peninsula resort town east of Rio with more than twenty bays and beaches, nightlife on Rua das Pedras and island-hopping boat trips — known as the Saint-Tropez of Brazil.

Búzios (Armação dos Búzios) lies on the Costa do Sol (Lakes Region) in the east of Rio de Janeiro State, about 170 km from central Rio. It sits on a small peninsula jutting into the Atlantic, with more than twenty bays and beaches, large and small, strung along 8 km of coastline. Originally a whaling and fishing village, it shot to fame after French film star Brigitte Bardot vacationed here in 1964, and today it is known as the Saint-Tropez of Brazil, celebrated for its chic resort atmosphere, seafood and nightlife. The town has three main areas. First, the center: the pedestrian Rua das Pedras and the Orla Bardot waterfront promenade are packed with shops, restaurants and bars, and schooner island-hopping trips from the pier are a must. Second, the small bays along the north shore — Praia dos Ossos, Azeda and Azedinha, João Fernandes and others — with clear, calm water for swimming and snorkeling. Third, the larger south-shore beaches such as Geribá, Ferradura and Tucuns; Geribá is the hub for surfing and beach parties, while Manguinhos is the kitesurfing base. Classic day trips include Arraial do Cabo, about 30 km southwest, whose Caribbean-blue waters you can explore by boat to Ilha do Farol and the Gruta Azul, and Cabo Frio, about 25 km away, with its long city beach, 17th-century fort and sand dunes. The climate is warm year-round. December–March is the hot summer high season, when crowds and room rates peak — book well ahead for New Year's and Carnival. April–November brings pleasant temperatures and lower prices; winter swells are good for surfing, though the sea is a little cooler. Getting there: direct buses from Rio's long-distance bus station take about 3 hours, or you can hire a private car or join a day tour. Around town, get between beaches on foot, by bus, taxi or water taxi. Plan on 2–3 days, or 3–4 days including a day trip to Arraial. Wear sunscreen, keep an eye on your phone and valuables on Rua das Pedras at night, and watch the lifeguard flags, as some beaches have strong surf.

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