Bertioga, a hidden gem on the coast of São Paulo, is the perfect destination for anyone seeking unforgettable experiences surrounded by nature and coastal beauty.
With its stunning beaches, lush greenery, and a wide range of activities, Bertioga captivates travelers looking for memorable moments.
Conveniently located near São Paulo city, this charming coastal town has become a favorite choice for refreshing weekend getaways and extended holidays.
Get ready to embark on a journey to uncover all the secrets and charms of Bertioga, a true paradise waiting to be explored.
Beaches for Everyone!
Bertioga is blessed with a variety of beaches that cater to all preferences. With 33 km of sandy coastline, you’ll find lively beaches, serene paradises, surf spots, and family-friendly shores. Explore some of the most popular beaches and discover what makes each one special:
Boraceia Beach
Boraceia Beach is famous for its vast stretches of golden sand and calm waters. It’s the perfect spot for families seeking a peaceful environment to enjoy sunbathing and swimming in shallow, safe waters.
Additionally, the beach is ideal for relaxing seaside walks, where you can take in the ocean breeze and stunning views.
São Lourenço Beach
São Lourenço Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear, calm waters, making it a haven for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.
Nature lovers will also enjoy the lush vegetation surrounding the beach. It’s the perfect spot for a day of fun on the water, whether you’re paddleboarding, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun.
Enseada Beach
Enseada Beach is a retreat for nature enthusiasts. With a rustic atmosphere and surrounded by preserved vegetation, this beach is perfect for those seeking a closer connection with nature.
The calm waters invite you to take a relaxing swim, while the natural surroundings offer opportunities for birdwatching and spotting marine life.
Bertioga boasts a variety of beaches, each with its own distinct charm. Whether you’re traveling with family, searching for the perfect waves, or just looking to unwind in nature, you’re sure to find the ideal beach to suit your preferences in this coastal gem.
Ecotourism and Nature
Bertioga offers a rich ecotourism experience and an immersion into nature. Discover some of the most fascinating attractions that highlight the region’s natural beauty:
Restinga de Bertioga State Park (Parque Estadual Restinga de Bertioga)
The Restinga de Bertioga State Park is a natural treasure home to diverse ecosystems, including beaches, coastal forests, mangroves, and the Atlantic Forest.
Its trails, Trilha d’Água and Trilha do Guaratuba, offer the perfect opportunity to explore the rich diversity of local flora and fauna.
As you walk through the well-preserved paths, you’ll encounter rare plant species such as orchids and bromeliads, and you may even spot wildlife like tamarins, armadillos, and a variety of birds.
This is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and sustainable tourism enthusiasts.
Other trails in Bertioga outside the park include Trilha Garganta do Gigante, Trilha da Torre 47, Trilha do Vale Verde, and Trilha da Casa de Pedra do Rio Itapanhaú.
Bertioga Mangrove
Mangroves play a vital role in environmental conservation, and Bertioga is home to a rich and diverse mangrove ecosystem.
When visiting the mangroves, you’ll have the chance to learn about the importance of this unique habitat, which serves as a natural nursery for various fish species and protects the coastline from erosion.
Additionally, mangroves are essential habitats for migratory birds and other forms of marine life. Explore the elevated walkways winding through the mangroves and admire the beauty of this critical environment.
Boat Tours and Birdwatching
For a truly memorable experience, take advantage of the boat tours available in the Bertioga region.
Sail along the calm waters of the rivers and canals that flow through the city, offering a fascinating glimpse of wildlife and aquatic ecosystems.
During these tours, it’s common to spot birds like herons, flamingos, and sandpipers in their natural habitats. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find Bertioga to be a haven of avian diversity.
Bertioga is much more than stunning beaches; it’s a destination that allows nature lovers to deeply connect with the richness of wildlife and coastal ecosystems.
Culture and History
Bertioga is a city rich in culture and history, where the past meets the present. Discover some of the fascinating cultural and historical attractions that make Bertioga a special destination:
Fort of São João
The Fort of São João is one of Bertioga’s most iconic historical landmarks and a true gem of Brazil’s colonial history.
Built in 1532, this fort played a key role in defending against foreign invasions and stands as a testament to the country’s storied past.
Today, visitors can explore the fort’s walls, cannons, and restored buildings, immersing themselves in the chapters of Brazil’s colonial history.
Cultural Events
Bertioga is known for its lively traditional festivities and cultural events held throughout the year.
Among the most notable celebrations are Bertioga’s Carnival, featuring parades and street parties, and the Winter Festival, showcasing music, dance, and local art.
Additionally, the city hosts open-air art exhibitions and craft fairs that celebrate local and regional culture.
Indigenous Village
Nestled between the headwaters of the Rio Silveira and Ribeirão Vermelho in the Boracéia neighborhood lies the home of approximately 300 Guarani Mbyá Indigenous people.
A visit to the village offers an immersion into the culture, history, and lifestyle of Brazil’s original inhabitants.
The village serves as a vital cultural hub for the Guarani people, who have preserved their traditions and customs for centuries.
They sustain themselves through cultivating pupunha palm hearts and selling handcrafted goods and ornamental plants. Visitors can also enjoy performances of traditional dances and music.
Access to the village is permitted only with a local tour guide and FUNAI authorization. The route is via SP-055, Km 189 (towards São Sebastião), as the village is located on the border of the two cities.
Bertioga offers visitors the chance to delve into Brazil’s historical past while embracing its vibrant contemporary culture!
When to go, how to get there, and where to stay
Bertioga is a delightful destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.
Summer (December to March) is the peak season when the city becomes lively with warm weather and school holidays. If you enjoy vibrant beaches and plenty of activities, this is the ideal time to visit.
On the other hand, the low season, including spring and fall, offers a quieter atmosphere, more affordable prices, and pleasant temperatures for exploring the area without the crowds.
Regardless of when you choose to visit, Bertioga is a charming destination that offers a unique mix of natural beauty, culture, and history. Plan your trip in advance to ensure the best experience possible.
How to get to Bertioga
Bertioga is conveniently located just 113 km (70 miles) from São Paulo, making it a perfect getaway for residents of the metropolitan region.
You can reach Bertioga via the following options:
- By Car: Driving is a popular choice as it provides flexibility to explore the area. The city is accessible via the Mogi-Bertioga Highway (SP-098) and the Rio-Santos Highway (BR-101).
- By Bus: There are bus routes connecting São Paulo to Bertioga. Check with local bus companies for schedules and availability.
Discover Ubatuba, another beautiful beach town in the state of São Paulo!
Where to stay in Bertioga
When planning your trip to Bertioga, choosing the right accommodation is key. The city offers a range of options, including hotels, guesthouses, and numerous rental homes and apartments.
I stayed at SESC Bertioga in December 2022, and it was amazing! The food, activities, pools—everything was fantastic. You can book a stay at SESC or participate in their lotteries if you have a SESC membership card.
We hope this guide has sparked your curiosity and excitement to explore the wonders of Bertioga.
This charming coastal town in São Paulo offers a wide array of experiences for every traveler.
From its stunning beaches and nature trails to its rich culture and history, Bertioga has something special for everyone.
Bertioga is waiting for you, ready to reveal its secrets and create unforgettable memories. Make the most of your stay in this breathtaking destination on the coast of São Paulo!
