The state of São Paulo is the most economically developed and the most populated in Brazil. During summer vacation and weekends, people from the big cities of the states, such as São Paulo and Campinas, go to the shore in order to relax and take a tan in touch with nature.

The beaches from the south of the state, are more urbanized due to it’s proximity with the big cities.

However, in the northern shore, you still find beaches where buildings are forbidden and human occupation is controlled, giving the region a charming and rustic atmosphere. The region, squeezed between the mountain range and the ocean also guards one of the largest and best preserved reserves of Atlantic Rain Forest. (see attractions)

There are four main cities in this part of the state: São Sebastião, Ilhabela, Caraguatatuba and Ubatuba. This region, squeezed between the ocean and a long mountain range, covered by one of the largest preserved reserve of Atlantic Rain Forest, creates an amazing landscape of small white sand beaches, each one with its own characteristics that we are showing you bellow.

Heading north form Sao Paulo, São Sebastião is the first city of the northern shore. It is the place of the luxury condominiums and frenetic nightlife. The city has many beaches, some are good for surfing, frequented by young and beautiful people, like Maresias and Cambury. Others are calmer, good for families or couples who want to relax.

Up north, after crossing the São Sebastião channel by Ferryboat (20 minutes), you find Ilhabela, which in Portuguese means “Beautiful Island”. During the 18th century, this amazing island had suffered many pirates attacks, what has created legends there are still treasures hidden over the island. Strong winds make this place awesome for a sailing experience. Its bay is also famous for providing good dives in shipwrecks or also in the coast, with a great variety of marine life. More than 90% of the island is protect by a State Park where you find more them 300 cascades and many trails that allow you to visit the rich Rain Forest.

Caraguatatuba is the most populated city. The main beach, Martin de Sá, is located in the city. It has a good infrastructure, with soccer fields, skating areas, parks and bars close to the sand. During the season the city provides many concerts of Brazilian famous bands that also attract people from the neighbor towns, such as like Ubatuba and São Sebastião.

Ubatuba is very frequented by young people, families, and also international tourists. There are more than 70 beaches along its coast, some of them you can easily find close to the road, but others… You find beaches great for surfing, like Itamambuca (WQS circuit)… other very remote, good for relaxing, with gorgeous landscapes and also beaches close to the accommodation with the entire infrastructure you need. Some of the most beautiful beaches and cascades in Ubatuba request some effort on trails to be visited. The night life is very animated during the seasons and holidays. You have options since walking through the coastline or going to a disco on the beach where you have a marvelous sight of sun rising.