armação dos búzios
Welcome to Búzios, the "Brazilian St. Tropez," a coastal gem that has captivated visitors for decades. Located 180 km from Rio de Janeiro, this charming fishing village became renowned in the 1960s thanks to Brigitte Bardot, who helped put it on the map. With its blend of charm, sophistication, and natural beauty, Búzios holds a special place in the hearts of many, including Valentina.
For Valentina, Búzios is more than just a beautiful destination; it's a cherished part of her childhood. From taking surf lessons in Geribá to savouring crepes on Rua das Pedras and, more recently, sharing these magical moments with Yves, Búzios has been a source of countless fond memories.
This guide is packed with our personal tips and recommendations, from the best beaches and trails to explore to the top restaurants, bars, and places to stay. Whether it's your first time or you're coming back for more, our guide will help you make the most of your visit to this charming coastal town.
We've also included a Google Maps link with all the highlighted spots to make your exploring easier.
Please note that this guide features our favourite places in Búzios and may not cover every attraction the town offers.
where to stay
We recommend staying in the centre of Búzios, Orla Bardot, Praia do Canto, or Praia dos Ossos. These areas provide convenient access to various amenities such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, all within walking distance, making them ideal locations for exploring the region.
Accommodations:
Below are hotel recommendations in different areas of Búzios and their distances from Valentina's family home (wedding venue) in Praia do Canto. Alternatively, we also recommend looking at Airbnb.
Casas Brancas: Located on Praia dos Ossos, near Rua das Pedras, this inn offers panoramic views of Orla Bardot with Mediterranean-inspired simplicity and elegance. The delicious Restaurant 74 makes it a top choice.
Distance: 1.5 km, about 21 minutes on foot or 7 minutes by car.
Vila da Santa Hotel Boutique & Spa: This hotel, also on Praia dos Ossos, features a timeless 1960s design. Highlights include the Mediterranean cuisine at La Gare restaurant and an exclusive spa.
Distance: 1.8 km, about 24 minutes on foot or 9 minutes by car.
La Pedrera Small Hotel & Spa: Offering great value, La Pedrera is a charming, rustic boutique hotel near João Fernandes Beach with ocean views, a spa, and an infinity pool. 5 minutes by car from Rua das Pedras.
Distance: 3.1 km, about 10 minutes by car.
Villa Balthazar: This charming, family-run boutique guesthouse with five rooms is located in Praia do Canto. It is surrounded by lush gardens and features a relaxing pool, cosy social spaces, and tranquil patios for a peaceful retreat.
Distance: Directly behind the venue.
Hotel PortoBay Búzios: A stylish hotel with spacious suites, lush gardens, and an inviting pool. It provides a peaceful retreat with luxurious amenities.
Distance: 1.6 km, about 22 minutes on foot or 7 minutes by car.
Abracadabra Pousada: This stylish and romantic pousada offers panoramic views of Baía da Armação, an infinity pool, and elegant rooms is ideal for a luxurious and intimate stay.
Distance: 2.1 km, about 7 minutes by car or 21 minutes on foot.
Insolito Boutique Hotel: Known for its unique design and stunning location, this boutique hotel offers luxury and personalized service. It features beautiful views and exclusive amenities.
Distance: 2.8 km, about 9 minutes by car
A Concept: This modern, high-end, exclusive villa with only 12 suites is located on Praia de Manguinhos. It features a modern design, luxurious spa services, and exquisite dining options. Ideal for those seeking privacy, it also offers windsurf equipment rentals.
Distance: 6.7 km, about 21 minutes by car.
Villa Rasa: An elegant beachfront hotel with direct access to Rasa Beach, offering spacious rooms, a spa, and two pools. The hotel features a tranquil, relaxed atmosphere with personalized service.
Distance: 8.4 km, about 23 minutes by car.
Vila Bela-Emília Guest House: A charming guest house offering a homey atmosphere and personalized service. The rooms are cosy, and the garden area is perfect for relaxing.
Distance: 95m away, about 1 minute on foot.
Selina Búzios: A trendy hotel perfect for younger travellers. It offers private rooms, shared dorms, a lively social scene, and various activities.
Distance: 0.6 km, about 8 minutes on foot.
activities
Surfing Lessons at Geribá Beach: Learn or improve your surfing skills at Geribá with lessons from experienced instructors catering to all levels.
Water Taxi from Praia dos Ossos: Rent a water taxi from Praia dos Ossos to explore Búzios' beautiful hidden beaches. A full-day rental takes you to Azeda, Azedinha, João Fernandes, João Fernandinho, and Tartaruga. Book through your hotel or with the boatmen directly at the beach near Rua das Pedras.
Orla Bardot Seafront: Stroll along this scenic promenade named after Brigitte Bardot. Enjoy ocean views, bronze sculptures, and a relaxed evening ambience.
Rua das Pedras: This vibrant street is the heart of Búzios' nightlife and shopping. Explore a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Don't miss local brands like Lenny, Farm, and Osklen, and consider dining or having a drink at the classic Bar do Zé.
Visit Porto da Barra: Located in Manguinhos, this waterfront area offers a variety of restaurants and bars. Enjoy seafood and live music while watching the sunset. The area is dog-friendly and perfect for a casual, scenic dining experience.
Spend a Day at Praia Brava: Relax on this picturesque beach known for its stunning views and pink-hued sand. Enjoy a full day at Rocka Bar, which provides beachside lounging, delicious food, and beautiful sunset views.
Explore Ferradura and Ferradurinha: Ferradura Beach is known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere. Ferradurinha is a smaller, quieter beach nearby with a similar shape. Both offer great spots for relaxation and swimming.
Snorkelling and Paddleboarding at Praia da Tartaruga: Its clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a great place to relax and enjoy refreshments from local kiosks while catching a stunning sunset.
Ponta do Pai Vitório: Hike a short, steep trail for panoramic views of the surrounding area. At the top, you'll find a serene beach with turquoise water, perfect for a peaceful escape.
where to eat
Bar do Zé: A local favourite for its delicious seafood pasta, this cute spot by the waterfront offers fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a must-visit in Búzios.
74 Restaurant: Located in the upscale Casas Brancas Boutique Hotel, it provides a sophisticated dining experience with contemporary Brazilian cuisine and stunning bay views.
Porto da Barra: A lively area in Manguinhos with restaurants, bars, and shops. Enjoy a shrimp pastel at Bar dos Pescadores or Donna Jô, along with live jazz and a cold beer. Arrive early to get a good spot for sunset views.
Nami Gastro Bar: Known for its inventive fusion of Brazilian, Asian, and Mexican cuisine. It is a great spot to have a late lunch and watch the sunset.
Rocka: Located on Praia Brava, it offers a full-day beach experience. Arrive early to relax at the beach lounge, then head to the main restaurant for lunch. Enjoy fresh seafood while spending a relaxing afternoon by the sea.
Farinatta: A hidden gem for authentic Italian cuisine featuring homemade pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Gisele:
An authentic Brazilian restaurant in the heart of Manguinhos, known for its relaxed atmosphere. Try the Portuguese sardines and shrimp pastel.
Mistico: The restaurant at Abracadabra Pousada is known for its cosy ambience and fresh local ingredients. Perched on a hill, it offers great ocean views and is ideal for a relaxed dinner.
Chez Michou:
Famous for its lively environment and delicious crepes (not the typical French ones), both sweet and savoury, it’s a fun and casual place to enjoy a variety of creative crepe options.A Concept:
Situated in a chic hotel, it serves exceptional Thai dishes in an elegant setting, ideal for a special dining experience.
beaches
Búzios offers different types of beaches, and the “best” one depends on your preferences and the activities you're looking for. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:
The northern part of the peninsula has generally warmer waters because the Atlantic currents, known for cooling the seas, are blocked by the land. The beaches here also tend to be calmer due to lower wind exposure, except for Manguinhos Beach.
Praia da Azeda and Azedinha: These two small, adjacent beaches are known for their crystal-clear, calm waters, perfect for swimming. Azedinha is even more secluded than Azeda, offering a tranquil escape. It is accessible by a short trail from Praia dos Ossos or by boat.
Praia da Tartaruga: Known for its calm, warm waters, this is an excellent spot for snorkelling. The beach is popular and can be busy, but it offers fantastic views and nearby kiosks.
Praia João Fernandes and João Fernandinho: Praia João Fernandes is popular for its calm, warm waters, perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. It’s well-served with bars and restaurants. Praia João Fernandinho, a smaller and more intimate version.
Praia dos Ossos: A historically significant beach with calm waters known for its colonial charm. It's a quiet spot, close to the town centre and the starting point for walking to Azeda and Azedinha.
Praia dos Amores: This hidden gem is nestled between the hills, providing a secluded and peaceful experience. The small, often deserted beach is perfect for those seeking tranquillity.
Praia do Canto: Located near the centre of Búzios, Praia do Canto is quiet despite being close to the town's bustling nightlife. Its calm waters and picturesque view make it a peaceful escape.
Praia da Armação: A scenic beach lined with traditional fishing boats near Rua das Pedras offers a great view of Búzios' iconic statues. However, it is not very suitable for swimming.
Manguinhos: A popular destination for sailing and windsurfing, especially during the September-October period due to strong winds. The water may appear murky due to seaweed, but it's ideal for water sports.
The southern coast faces the open ocean, exposing the beaches to colder waters and stronger winds.
Praia de Geribá: One of Búzios' most popular beaches, Geribá is known for its vast stretch of sand and strong waves, making it perfect for surfing. It’s also a lively spot with bars and restaurants.
Praia Brava: Known for its wilder atmosphere, Praia Brava is great for those who love surfing or enjoy the strong waves and breeze. The beach also features trendy beach clubs and restaurants.
Praia do Forno: A unique beach with pinkish sand and calm waters, Praia do Forno is a beautiful spot for relaxing. It's surrounded by lush, rocky hills, providing a sense of seclusion.
Praia da Foca: This small, rocky beach is ideal for those seeking peace. Its waters are calm, and the surrounding rocks make for a picturesque setting.
Praia da Ferradura and Ferradurinha: Praia da Ferradura has a horseshoe shape and is known for its calm waters, making it perfect for families and water sports like kayaking. Praias Ferradurinha is a charming, smaller and cosier beach,
Praia de Tucuns: This lesser-known and more remote beach has wide open spaces and stronger waves. It's usually less crowded, offering a peaceful experience and good surfing.
Praia Olho de Boi: A small remote nudist beach located beyond Praia Brava, surrounded by cliffs, with a more adventurous feel.
