Paraty: Brazil's Colonial Coastal Gem • Jet-Setting Duo

Paraty is one of Brazil’s most captivating destinations. It combines colonial architecture, tropical landscapes, and a vibrant culinary scene. Located between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, it attracts mostly Brazilian visitors from those cities. The town’s colorful façades and cobblestone streets reflect strong European influence from Portuguese colonial times. The Atlantic Forest surrounds the town, adding a dramatic natural contrast. The combination of history, nature, and exceptional food makes Paraty a magical place.

A cobblestone street in Paraty, Brazil, lined with colorful colonial-style buildings featuring arched windows and ornate doors in yellow, green, and red under a partly cloudy sky. People walk in the distance. — Colonial Architecture and Cobblestone Streets in Paraty

Table of Contents

Paraty’s Geography

Paraty is located on the Bay of Ilha Grande, an area dotted with lush tropical islands in Brazil’s “Costa Verde” (Green Coast). The town is surrounded by the Atlantic Forest, mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Its name comes from the indigenous Guaianá language, spoken by local native communities. Paraty is known for its charming and compact historic town center. It is recognized as a National Historic Landmark in Brazil and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historic street in Paraty, Brazil, with colonial buildings and cobblestone roads partly flooded by water. Parked cars and street lamps line the scene, while trees and a blue sky complete this charming Brazilian town view. — Flooded Street During High Tide

During high tide, seawater flows into parts of the Historic Center District. The cobblestone streets remain flooded briefly until the tide recedes. Pedestrians may need galoshes to move through certain areas. This tidal flooding is said to help naturally clean the historic streets.

A Brief History of Paraty

In 1597, Paraty was founded as a village. In 1667, Portuguese colonists established it as a town. Before gold, sugarcane defined Paraty’s early economy. During the 1500s, sugarcane products were among Brazil’s main exports.

A sunny plaza in Paraty, Brazil, with tropical plants and trees set before colorful colonial-style buildings featuring blue and white facades and tile roofs, all under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. — The Central Square in Paraty

During Brazil’s Gold Cycle, Paraty became a key export port. Gold traveled from inland mines to Paraty, then onward to Rio de Janeiro and Portugal. This trade brought wealth and prominence to the town. By the late eighteenth century, gold reserves declined. Soon after, Paraty’s economic importance faded. However, the town remained active through sugarcane cultivation and cachaça production.

Under Portuguese rule, Paraty became known for cachaça. The spirit is distilled from fresh sugarcane juice. It is also the main ingredient in caipirinhas, Brazil’s national drink. Many distilleries operated throughout the region. Cachaça from Paraty was widely demanded in Brazil and Europe. Over time, Paraty’s cachaça earned a Protected Indication of Provenance.

Bottles of Paratiense liqueur in various flavors, including yellow and dark red varieties, are neatly arranged on black shelves in a store display. — Cachaças Distilled in Paraty

Despite economic shifts, Paraty preserved its built heritage. Colonial architecture remained largely unchanged for over 250 years. Churches played an important role in shaping town life. Each church served a specific social group reflecting the social structure of colonial Brazil. Some were for white elites, others for enslaved Africans, and others for mixed-race residents.

Day 1: Driving from Rio and First Impressions of Paraty

Getting to Paraty

Paraty can be reached in several ways. Buses connect the town with Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Uber is also available, though it can be expensive. Paraty has a small airport, but it only accommodates chartered helicopters or small private aircraft. These flights are available from Rio and São Paulo. Several cruise ships make scheduled stops in Paraty.

The easiest and most convenient option is to drive there. That is the option we chose. Paraty is connected to Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo by the BR-101 highway. Although cars cannot enter the historic town center, having a car adds flexibility. It allows easy access to beaches, waterfalls, farms, and distilleries outside the center.

A cobblestone street in Paraty, Brazil, lined with white colonial-style buildings featuring blue and white decorative tiles, arched windows, and red roofs under a bright, partly cloudy sky. — No Cars Are Allowed in the Historic Center.

We picked up a rental car in Rio de Janeiro and drove to Paraty. The journey took four hours and fifteen minutes. The coastal scenery made the drive enjoyable. Upon arrival, Paraty was relaxed and welcoming.

Our Lodging

We checked into Casa Turquesa, a beautiful “Pousada” (B&B) in the historic center. The elegant property impressed us with its thoughtful details. The hospitality was warm and sincere. Each morning began with a delicious homemade breakfast. Afternoons included a refined tea service.

A spacious living room with stone walls, green sofas, a glass coffee table, and a view of a lush garden through open doors. Natural light fills the room, highlighting the modern yet rustic decor. — Lounge Area at Casa Turquesa

A bright, airy bedroom with a four-poster bed draped in white sheer curtains, turquoise accents, blue shutters, a small dining nook by the window, and natural light flooding the room. — Lounge Area at Casa Turquesa

Our Introduction to Paraty

Later in the day we walked through the historic center to become familiar with the town’s layout. The streets were vibrant and lively. In the evening, we stopped for a drink at Van Gogh Bar. Their passion fruit caipirinhas were excellent.

Dinner was at Restaurante Refúgio. We shared a Mista Espanhola with grilled shrimp and squid. We also ordered oven-roasted sea bass with vegetables. Dessert was macerated mango with vanilla ice cream. This was a perfect way to end our first day in Paraty.

A charming, well-lit cobblestone alley at night with lush plants, a parked bicycle, a sign reading "Refúgio," people dining at outdoor tables, and a musician playing guitar under palm leaves. — Outdoor Dining at Restaurante Refúgio

Day 2: Island Hopping by Boat in Paraty Bay

Choosing a Boat

Exploring Paraty by water is one of the destination’s highlights. We booked a private boat for the day. The cost was R$1,200 for four of us. One advantage of a private boat is flexibility. You can plan the route directly with the captain. This includes choosing islands, beaches, and swim stops. You also decide how long to stay at each location.

A wooden boat with a small canopy floats on clear, shallow water near lush, green trees under a bright blue sky. Several people are relaxing onboard, enjoying the scenery. — Our Private Boat

Another option is joining large “Escunas”. These are traditional wooden schooner boats that carry larger groups of visitors. Escunas usually follow fixed routes. They cost around R$150 per person; however, food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment cost extra.

Island Hopping

Our first stop was Praia de Jurumirim (Jurumirim Beach). It is known for golden sand and calm waters. The scenery is peaceful and picturesque. The shallow water made it easy to swim and few people were around.

A tropical beach with lush green trees and hills in the background, turquoise water in the foreground, and two small boats anchored near the shore under a bright blue sky. — Jurumirim Beach

Next, we stopped near Prainha and Ilha da Pescaria. This area is famous for its crystal-clear waters. Marine life is abundant and colorful. It is an excellent spot for snorkeling. Ilha da Pescaria is privately owned, so disembarkation is not allowed. Visitors can swim freely in the surrounding waters.

Boats float on clear turquoise water surrounded by lush green hills under a bright blue sky. Trees line the shore on the left, and several small boats are scattered across the bay. — Swim Stop at Ilha da Pescaria

Ilha do Mantimento was our last stop. Its name means Provisions Island, inspired by its colonial role as a trading post. Today, it is a private island but visitors can still enjoy the surrounding waters. The water is calm, sheltered, and very clear, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Marine life is easy to spot close to the boat.

Boats anchored near a lush, green island shoreline; people swimming in the clear turquoise water under a partly cloudy sky. — Snorkeling at Ilha do Mantimento

Lunch Time

We headed to Praia Vermelha for lunch. Praia Vermelha is a secluded beach surrounded by the Atlantic Forest. It is known for its reddish-tinted sand, hence the name “Vermelha” (meaning red in Portuguese). The beach is only accessible by boat. Part of the charm of Restaurante Amendoeiras is its beachfront setting. The tables are placed directly on the sand. Our boat stopped offshore and a small, motorized boat from the restaurant picked us up. This stop offered a perfect midday break.

People sit under umbrellas at plastic tables and chairs on a sandy beach, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky. Some empty chairs and loungers are in the foreground. — Restaurante Amendoeiras on Praia Vermelha

At Restaurante Amendoeiras, we shared a grilled seafood board. It included fish, shrimp, calamari, octopus, and mussels. The dish came with saffron rice and farofa, which is a Brazilian specialty.

A wooden tray filled with assorted grilled seafood—including octopus, shrimp, fish, calamari, and mussels—served with yellow rice, lime wedges, and two spoons on a rustic wooden table. — Grilled Seafood Board

People walk along a sandy beach next to clear blue water, with several boats anchored near the shore and a lush green forested hill in the background under a partly cloudy sky. — After-Lunch Walk on Praia Vermelha

Evening Outing

That evening, we went to Casa Coupê. This traditional bar/restaurant is set inside a charming converted colonial mansion. The menu offers a wide variety of options. Choices range from snacks and main entrées to burgers and pizzas. Live Brazilian music plays inside the bar. We recommend getting a table outside. It is perfect for people watching while enjoying the music and a passion fruit caipirinha.

Outdoor restaurant with red chairs and tables set on a cobblestone street in Paraty, Brazil, beside white colonial-style buildings with red doors and windows; a few people are dining and walking nearby under a clear sky. — Outdoor Seating at Casa Coupê

People sit at tables outside a café at night, eating and drinking. Some are engaged in conversation, while others are looking at their phones. The café has open doors, warm lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere. — Enjoying Caipirinhas at Bar Coupê

Day 3: Spirits, Atlantic Forest, and Waterfalls

Alambique Cachaça Paratiana

We began the day at Alambique Cachaça Paratiana, a distillery located beside the rushing Rio da Pedra Branca. The setting feels lush and deeply connected to the Atlantic Forest. Tours and tastings are offered free of charge.

A man stands in front of large, shiny copper distillation tanks inside a distillery, speaking and gesturing with his hand. The room has tiled floors, cream walls, and green doors and windows. A yellow chain blocks entry. — Copper Distillation Tanks at Alambique Cachaça Paratiana

A cellar filled with wooden barrels of various sizes stacked on racks, each labeled, aging wine or spirits in a dimly lit room with stone walls and a tiled floor. — Paratiana’s Wood Barrels

Paratiana produces a wide range of cachaças. They also sell artisanal products made with Atlantic Forest ingredients. Their onsite museum displays over 3,000 bottles of cachaça. These bottles represent many generations of producers. One local specialty is Gabriela cachaça, a liquor infused with cinnamon and cloves. Gabriela is used to make the famous ‘Jorge Amado’ cocktail. This drink is widely available in Paraty’s bars.

Alambique Engenho D’Ouro

Nearby, we also visited Alambique Engenho D’Ouro. This distillery is known for award-winning cachaças. Production follows traditional techniques. Aging occurs in barrels made from different wood types. Free tours and tastings are offered on the premises.

Outdoor view of a rustic distillery called "Engenho D'Ouro," with metal tanks, wooden barrels, trees, and mountains in the background. The ground is stone-paved, with a small stream and wooden bench in front. — Visit at Alambique Engenho D’Ouro

Colorful wooden sign in a garden reads in Portuguese: "Não deixe para amanhã a cachaça que você pode beber hoje." The background has green bushes with red flowers and a concrete path. — Don’t leave for tomorrow the cachaça you can drink today.

Agrotourism at the Farm

Next, we visited Fazenda Bananal (Bananal Farm). This restored property dates to the 17th century and was transformed into a sustainable agrotourism project. The farm sits within the Atlantic Forest. It offers immersion into local nature, culture, and gastronomy.

A lush botanical garden with a pond filled with lily pads, surrounded by tropical plants, tall trees, and a rustic building with white walls and wooden beams under a clear blue sky. — Pond and Colonial Mansion at Fazenda Bananal

A rustic room with wooden floors and beams displays woven baskets on the walls and ceiling, colorful ribbons hanging overhead, and small sculptures on stands. Decorative animal figures are seen near a green wall. — Museum Exhibits Reflect Local Crafts

Traditional rustic kitchen with wooden utensils hanging on the wall, woven baskets displayed, clay stove, pots, bananas, table with teapots, mugs, and wooden chair on a wooden floor with exposed ceiling beams. — Museum Exhibits Reflect Local Crafts

Fazenda Bananal offers many activities for all ages. It is ideal for spending an entire day. We toured the 200-year-old mansion, which operates as a museum, and gardens. Unfortunately, we ran out of time for forest hikes. Plan your visit carefully to enjoy everything as all activities end at 4 PM.

Gastronomy at the Farm

Our delicious lunch at Fazenda Bananal was unforgettable. The restaurant focuses on organic ingredients grown on the property. Native foods are transformed into refined dishes.

A rustic restaurant with a red-tiled roof and large wooden-framed glass windows sits amid lush greenery, tropical plants, and palm trees. A black sign with white text stands near the entrance. — Restaurant at Fazenda Bananal

We tried fish croquettes with mandarin lemon aïoli. We shared baked hearts of palm with herb butter and an orchard salad with wild greens and edible flowers. For our main courses, we ordered pulled pork with lentil ragu and crispy kale and sea bass with creamy coconut rice. Both were delectable. Dessert was ‘doce de leite’ pudding with chocolate crumble. This was an outstanding meal.

Three pieces of grilled heart of palm are served on a dark tray, garnished with microgreens, thinly sliced white vegetables, and edible flowers, with a small white cup in the background. — Baked Hearts of Palm

A gourmet dish in a green bowl, featuring a creamy white sauce, golden-brown breadcrumbs, pieces of grilled plantain, a seared protein, and microgreens as garnish. — Baked Hearts of Palm

Fun at the Waterfall

After lunch, we visited Cachoeira do Tobogã. The main attraction is a large smooth rock. Water flows over it like a natural waterslide. Visitors slide directly into a refreshing pool below. Above the waterfall is the Tarzan Pool. The calmer waters are perfect for bathing. We had a lot of fun enjoying the natural waterslide and watching other do so too.

People play and climb on a large, smooth rock surface covered in shallow flowing water, surrounded by dense, green forest and tall trees on a sunny day. — Cachoeira do Tobogã

People swim and relax in a natural pool surrounded by rocks and dense green forest. Two people stand on rocks in the foreground, while others swim and sit near a small waterfall in the background. — Calmer Waters at Tarzan Pool

Evening Drinks

That evening, we spent time at Bar Paraty. The venue has live music and a R$15 cover charge. Bossa Nova filled the space with a soothing atmosphere. We shared shrimp and meat croquettes, which were excellent. We also enjoyed well-made passion fruit caipirinhas. It felt like the right way to wind down after a full day.

A glass of yellow cocktail with ice sits on a coaster next to a wooden rack holding assorted fried snacks. Part of a clear bottle, a glass with lime, and more snacks are also visible in the background. — Caipirinha and Croquettes at Bar Paraty

Day 4: Natural Aquariums, Secluded Beaches, and Paraty’s Best Restaurant

More Boating

We spent another day exploring Paraty’s bay by private boat. Each day on the water revealed different landscapes and colors. Our first stop was Ilha Comprida. It is known as the Natural Aquarium of Paraty. Ilha Comprida is a small, elongated rocky island and has no beaches. The island is famous for crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

Several people relax on a wooden boat with a red canopy, anchored near a tropical shoreline with green trees. Another boat floats nearby on clear blue-green water under a partly cloudy sky. — The “Natural Aquarium” at Ilha Comprida

Next, we visited Praia da Lula. This beach is tranquil and pristine. The sand is white and soft while the water is calm, transparent, and green. A lush Atlantic Forest surrounds the beach. Praia da Lula is only accessible by boat.

A lush green tropical forest borders a sandy beach with clear turquoise water. A few small boats are anchored near the shore, and some people are visible on the beach under cloudy skies. — The Lush Vegetation at Praia da Lula

Before returning to Paraty, we stopped for lunch at Praia Vermelha. Since we had had such a great experience here earlier, we decided it was worth a second visit. We enjoyed some delicious grilled fresh seafood before heading back to Paraty’s pier.

A wooden pier in Paraty, Brazil, with people strolling beside colorful docked boats—some with blue and yellow exteriors—set under a partly cloudy sky and backed by lush green hills. — Schooner Boats at Paraty’s Pier

Paraty’s Gastronomy

That evening, we had dinner at Restaurante Banana da Terra – one of the best restaurants in Paraty. It celebrates authentic Paraty flavors, tradition, and innovation. Its philosophy honors the local indigenous Caiçara culture. Chef Ana Bueno presents Brazilian cuisine with a contemporary approach in which local ingredients and traditional recipes guide the menu.

A cozy restaurant with stone pillars, several tables occupied by people dining, and a waiter serving food. Warm lighting and eclectic wall decorations create a welcoming and lively atmosphere. — Restaurante Banana da Terra

We began with a Crudo topped with citrus sauce. Native bee honey and soy sauce added balance. Toasted sesame seeds, grain mustard, and nori completed the dish. We also shared ‘Bolinhos de Paçoca de Banana’ – smoked cheesecakes with mashed bananas, bacon, and pepper jelly.

The ‘Peixe com Banana’ was unforgettable. The aged sea bass was cooked with Atlantic Forest spices. Banana purée and ‘pirão’ crisp accompanied the dish. We also ordered ‘Moqueca de Siri Catado’, a palm oil crab stew served with banana, farofa, and rice.

A row of eight round, golden-brown fried appetizers topped with a dollop of white sauce and a small red garnish, served on a wooden tray. A bowl of soup and a cup are partially visible in the background. — Bolinhos de Paçoca de Banana

A clay dish with a serving of orange curry and a piece of meat, garnished with herbs. A large, crispy, golden-brown cracker rests on the edge of the dish, all placed on a wooden table. — Bolinhos de Paçoca de Banana

A close-up of a steaming hot stone bowl filled with a yellow, hearty soup or stew, garnished with fresh herbs and featuring visible vegetables, placed in a woven basket. — Moqueca de Siri Catado

A plated dessert featuring two round pastries stacked on a skewer, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, sitting on a pink sauce and a white cream base, served on a brown ceramic plate. — Moqueca de Siri Catado

Dessert was a yucca dumpling filled with guava paste and accompanied with cream cheese and guava ice cream. In all, Restaurante Banana da Terra was outstanding.

Free Walking Tour

The next morning, we joined a free historical walking tour of Paraty. The tour lasted about ninety minutes. Visitors typically tip between R$60 and R$100 per person. The tour offered valuable context and insight into the town’s past.

Igreja da Matriz

A historic white church with tan stone accents and green doors stands on a cobblestone street in Paraty, Brazil, under a bright blue sky. People walk nearby, and a tree with red flowers graces the foreground. — Igreja da Matriz

Our first stop was the Igreja da Matriz also known as Igreja Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. The church dates to 1873 and was built in the Neoclassical architectural style. Notable features include its unfinished towers. The interior contains chapels with 18th-century altarpieces, and a 17th-century baptismal font. During the colonial era, this church served as the main place of worship, primarily used by Paraty’s white elite. The building remains an important religious landmark. Photography is not allowed inside the church.

Masonic Symbols

A colonial-style building in Paraty, Brazil, features yellow doors, a blue door, and large white-framed windows. Sunlight and tree shadows grace the facade, which displays “for sale” signs and an ornate balcony above. — Masonic Symbols Integrated Into Façades

Off the main square, we stopped in front of a private residence. Masonic symbols were carved into the façade. These symbols appear throughout Paraty’s colonial buildings. They mark influence and fraternity among early Freemasons. As a major colonial port, Paraty attracted educated and affluent residents. This environment supported early and influential Freemasonry. The symbols expressed pride and mutual recognition. They also signaled commitment to liberal and progressive ideals.

Igreja N. Senhora das Dores

A historic white church with a bell tower and green doors stands on a sunny street in Paraty, Brazil, lined with colonial-style buildings under a bright blue sky. — Igreja Nossa Senhora das Dores

The next stop was Igreja Nossa Senhora das Dores (Our Lady of Sorrows). Built around 1800, the church served the elite women of Paraty’s colonial society. The building sits along the waterfront. Its architecture follows a restrained colonial Baroque style.

Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário e São Benedito

A historic white church with a green door and a cross on top stands at the end of a cobblestone street in Paraty, Brazil. Flags hang on a nearby building, and people walk and sit at outdoor tables in this charming colonial town. — Simple Architecture at Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário e São Benedito

We then visited Igreja do Rosário e São Benedito. It is the second oldest church in Paraty dating to 1725. It was originally built and used by enslaved Africans. The design is simple and functional. The plain whitewashed walls reflect the restrained Colonial Portuguese architecture at the time.

Igreja de Santa Rita

A historic white church with twin bell towers stands in a cobblestone square in Paraty, Brazil, under a cloudy sky. Several people walk and sit nearby, and colonial-style buildings line the street. — The Oldest Church in Paraty – Igreja de Santa Rita

Our next stop was Igreja de Santa Rita (Church of St. Rita). Built in 1722, it is the oldest church in town. The church served free mixed-race citizens, known as ‘pardos’. Today, it houses the Museum of Sacred Art. The building stands by the waterfront and features modest Baroque elements. The church demonstrates the racial and social segregation of the colonial period. Religion played a key role in reinforcing social divisions.

Teatro Espaço

Our final stop was Teatro Espaço. The historic building now serves as a cultural venue. It hosts plays, concerts, and community events. Visitors can also attend a traditional puppet show on Wednesdays at 7 PM.

Paraty Feels Truly Distinct

A cobblestone street in Paraty, Brazil, is lined with colorful colonial-style buildings, some with blue doors and windows. A few people walk in the distance under a blue sky, while a bicycle leans against a wall on the left.

Paraty offers a rare blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy. Colonial streets coexist with Atlantic Forest landscapes and island-filled waters. The town’s history is visible through churches, architecture, and traditions. Our boating days unveiled secluded beaches and thriving marine life. Distilleries and a farm showcased regional flavors and craftsmanship. Dining reflected a deep respect for local ingredients and Caiçara culture. Paraty rewards travelers who explore beyond the historic center. It is a destination worth visiting, defined by depth, variety, and authenticity.

Paraty: Brazil’s Colonial Coastal Gem

Paraty’s Geography

A Brief History of Paraty