Looking for things to do in Arraial do Cabo? Arraial do Cabo is a destination brimming with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful natural landscapes. In this tropical paradise, you can enjoy everything from peaceful walks on breathtaking beaches to thrilling dives in clear waters teeming with fish, corals, turtles, and other marine species.
Best things to do in Arraial do Cabo
If you’re seeking activities that blend leisure, beautiful beaches, nature, and adventure, this guide to the 11 best tours and attractions in Arraial do Cabo is perfect for you. Get ready to discover stunning landscapes, explore magnificent trails, and sail through paradise-like waters.
Where to Stay in Arraial do Cabo
1. Boat Tour in Arraial do Cabo: The City’s Most Popular Excursion
The boat tour in Arraial do Cabo is the most popular activity in the city. It’s the easiest and most practical way to explore the main beaches of Arraial do Cabo. In addition to visiting these beaches, you’ll enjoy unique landscapes, sail through crystal-clear waters, and dive into paradisiacal spots. Moreover, the boat tour is the only way to reach Farol Beach (Praia do Farol), one of the most beautiful beaches in Arraial do Cabo.
The boats for this tour depart from Anjos Beach (Praia dos Anjos) and make stops for swimming and snorkeling at places like Forno Beach (Praia do Forno), Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia, and Farol Beach.
2. Visit Praia do Farol: The Best Beach in Arraial do Cabo
Farol Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Arraial do Cabo and has even been recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. It has earned the title of a perfect beach due to the crystal-clear purity of its waters, the fine quality of its sand, and its enchanting surroundings.
This beach is located on an island managed by the Brazilian Navy, and access is restricted to protect its unique ecosystem. The only way to reach Farol Beach is by boat, and visitors are limited to a maximum stay of 45 minutes to ensure the preservation of its natural beauty.
3. Explore Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia: The Most Beautiful Beach in Arraial do Cabo
Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia is one of Arraial do Cabo’s main attractions, captivating visitors with its unparalleled beauty, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant turquoise waters.
This beach stands out for its calm, clear waters, fine white sand, and the unique scenery where the turquoise blue of the sea harmoniously blends with the lush green of the tropical vegetation.
4. Discover Praia do Forno: The Natural Beach with the Best Infrastructure
Forno Beach is a uniquely beautiful beach and a must-visit destination in Arraial do Cabo. This beach features calm, crystal-clear turquoise waters, good infrastructure, and a 500-meter stretch of white sand. Additionally, it is located in a region surrounded entirely by forest, making the landscape even more stunning.
5. Underwater diving in Arraial do Cabo: The Best Way to Experience Marine Life
Underwater diving is one of the best tours in Arraial do Cabo. The waters here are perfect for beginners, with excellent visibility due to their clarity. Moreover, the region boasts an abundance of marine life, including a variety of fish, corals, turtles, and other species. If you love diving, this experience is perfect for you.
6 – Visit Lago do Amor: A Hidden Gem
Lago do Amor (Love Lagoon) is a popular spot in Arraial do Cabo, especially among Brazilian visitors. This small natural pool with crystal-clear waters is located at the Pontal do Atalaia lookout. The lake is famous for its beauty, the color of its waters, the stunning ocean views it offers, and the beautiful photos you can capture there.
The only way to reach Lago do Amor is by a trail, which, although light, can be dangerous. There have been various accidents at this site, ranging from minor to severe. It is recommended to take this trail only with an accredited guide, and you should respect weather conditions. The trail should not be attempted during rainy days or high tides.
7. Take a Buggy Tour in Arraial do Cabo: A Fun Adventure
If you’re looking for a less conventional activity in Arraial do Cabo, a buggy tour is a fun and different way to explore the city and its fine sand dunes and beautiful landscapes. This tour is ideal for those seeking a bit of adventure during their trip. A buggy tour offers the opportunity to discover incredible landscapes that are often missed in traditional itineraries, such as Pontal Beach, Lagoa do Foguete (Rocket Lagoon), Deserto da Praia Grande (Desert of Praia Grande), Pedreira, and Lagoa Vermelha (Red Lagoon).
8. Watch the Sunset: A Must-Do for Nature Lovers
The sunset in Arraial do Cabo is a breathtaking spectacle that enhances the city’s natural beauty. As the sky turns shades of yellow and orange, reflecting on the stunning landscape, this is a must-do activity in Arraial do Cabo. If you’re planning a trip, watching the sunset is an experience you should definitely include in your itinerary.
Praia Grande and Pontal do Atalaia are among the best spots to enjoy this magical moment. At Praia Grande, you can watch the sunset right from the sand or choose the Janela do Céu (Window to the Sky) for a more panoramic view of the region.
9. Explore the Beaches: The Main Attraction in Arraial do Cabo
The beaches are the main attraction in Arraial do Cabo. Besides the most famous beaches like Forno Beach, Farol Beach, and Pontal do Atalaia, take the time to explore other beaches in the area. Spend a day at the vibrant Prainha and don’t miss a visit to Graçainha Beach (Praia de Graçainha). Enjoy the stunning sunset at Praia Grande, and also check out Pontal Beach (Praia do Pontal), which is less touristy but equally charming.
10. Visit Cabo Frio: A City with Beautiful Beaches
Cabo Frio is a neighboring city of Arraial do Cabo, easily accessible by bus or Uber/Taxi. It’s an excellent option for a day trip if you’re spending several days in the area.
Known for its magnificent beaches, Cabo Frio uniquely blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Praia do Forte (Forte Beach), with its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, is the city’s postcard-perfect beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Also, don’t miss the charming “Bairro da Passagem”, the oldest neighborhood in the city, where you can enjoy well-preserved colonial architecture and a variety of local restaurants. You can visit Cabo Frio as a day trip or, if you prefer, spend a few days in the city.
11. Visit Búzios: The Most Touristic City with the Best Infrastructure in the Region
Búzios is the most touristic city in the “Região dos Lagos” and is just an hour away from Arraial do Cabo. Originally a fishing village, Búzios is known for its stunning beaches, top-notch gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife filled with bars and clubs. The city also offers a variety of tourist tours and exclusive shopping opportunities. With enchanting landscapes and a wide range of hotels and spas, Búzios is the perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation in a paradise-like setting.