Menu
A day trip from São Paulo to coastal cities like Santos, São Vicente, and Guarujá is a popular excursion that typically lasts around 8-10 hours. These tours often include hotel pickup and drop-off, with collection points usually within a 6-kilometer radius of Sé Square in downtown São Paulo. For those staying outside the pickup area, a common meeting point is the Hotel Ibis Paulista on Avenida Paulista.
Tours generally depart early in the morning, often between 7 and 8 AM. The journey to the coast takes about an hour, passing through sections of the Atlantic Forest. Upon arrival, visitors can expect a mix of historical sightseeing and beach relaxation. Common stops include the Coffee Museum in Santos, where you can sample traditional Brazilian coffee, and guided walks through the historic downtown area. Many tours also include a ride on the traditional tram in Santos.
Beach visits are a highlight of these trips, with stops at popular spots like Itararé Beach in São Vicente and Enseada Beach in Guarujá. Some tours offer optional activities such as cable car rides for panoramic views or visits to viewpoints like Campina in Guarujá. There’s usually free time allocated for lunch, swimming, and relaxing on the beach.
The price range for these day trips typically falls between $90 to $140 per person for group tours, while private tours can cost around $470 for a small group. Prices usually include transportation, a bilingual guide (often speaking Portuguese, English, and Spanish), and basic insurance. However, meals, beverages, and entrance fees to certain attractions are generally not included.
These tours are designed to accommodate small groups, often limited to 7 participants, creating a more personalized experience. It’s important to note that some tours have a minimum requirement of 2 participants to operate. While most tours are suitable for all ages, some more adventurous options, like hikes to wild beaches, may have age restrictions or physical fitness requirements.
Visitors are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. It’s also recommended to bring some cash for meals and optional activities. The tours typically return to São Paulo in the evening, around 6 or 7 PM, providing a full day of coastal exploration and relaxation.
Santos, São Vicente, and Guarujá are three captivating coastal cities in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. These destinations, easily accessible from São Paulo city, provide visitors with a perfect blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and vibrant beach culture.
Santos, the largest of the three, is renowned for its rich history and economic importance. As home to Latin America’s largest port, the city played a crucial role in Brazil’s coffee trade during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This heritage is beautifully preserved in the city’s historic center, where visitors can explore the Coffee Museum, housed in the former Coffee Stock Exchange building. The museum not only offers insights into the coffee industry’s impact on Brazilian society but also serves some of the finest coffee in its traditional café.
One of Santos’ most beloved attractions is its beach garden, recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest beachfront garden in the world. Stretching for over 5 kilometers along the coastline, this lush green space provides a picturesque setting for leisurely walks, bike rides, or simply relaxing by the sea. The city’s beaches, while not as famous as those of Rio de Janeiro, offer a more laid-back atmosphere and are popular among locals and tourists alike.
Santos also boasts a unique form of transportation – the historic tram system. These charming streetcars, some dating back to the early 20th century, offer a nostalgic journey through the city’s downtown area, passing by notable landmarks and architectural gems.
Neighboring Santos is São Vicente, often recognized as the first permanent Portuguese settlement in the Americas. This historical significance is celebrated at the Martim Afonso de Sousa Monument, commemorating the city’s founder. São Vicente’s beaches, particularly Itararé, are known for their beauty and excellent surfing conditions. The city also features a small but charming aquarium and the Ilha Porchat, a peninsula offering panoramic views of the coastline.
Guarujá, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” is famous for its stunning beaches and upscale resorts. Located on Santo Amaro Island, Guarujá has been a favorite getaway for São Paulo’s elite since the 1970s. Its most popular beaches include Pitangueiras, Enseada, and Tombo, each offering crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Guarujá is not just about beach life; it also boasts lush Atlantic Forest areas, providing opportunities for ecotourism and hiking.
The city’s Mirante da Campina offers breathtaking views of the coastline and nearby islands, making it a must-visit spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. For those interested in history, the 16th-century Forte de São Felipe, also known as La Bertioga, stands as a testament to the region’s colonial past.
These three cities, while distinct, share a common thread of coastal beauty and historical significance. They offer visitors a chance to experience the diversity of São Paulo state’s coastline, from bustling port cities to tranquil beach towns. Whether you’re interested in lounging on pristine beaches, exploring historical sites, indulging in water sports, or sampling local cuisine (especially the fresh seafood), Santos, São Vicente, and Guarujá have something to offer.
The proximity of these cities to each other and to São Paulo makes them ideal for day trips or extended stays. They provide a perfect escape from the urban hustle of São Paulo, allowing visitors to experience a different facet of Brazilian culture and lifestyle. With their combination of natural beauty, historical richness, and modern amenities, Santos, São Vicente, and Guarujá continue to be popular destinations for both domestic and international tourists seeking a taste of Brazil’s coastal allure.
©2025 all rights reserved Guided Day Trips
