Located just 72 miles from Rio de Janeiro, Saquarema is known as Brazil’s Surf Capital. With nearly 40 miles of beaches, lagoons, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventure sports, it blends relaxation, culture, and world-class waves. A perfect getaway for surfers, families, and Brazilians living abroad seeking connection with nature.
By Livia Caroline Neves | Translation: Christine Di Stefano.
Saquarema is known as the Surf Capital of Brazil, famous for waves surpassing 9 feet. Photo by Jessica the Human
“Saquarema, the place to be happy and to love!” — this is the slogan of the Carioca paradise located only 72 miles outside the city of Rio de Janeiro.
Originally inhabited by the Tamoio Native Indians, the region became economically important during the 19th century coffee boom in Brazil. Today, Saquarema has been rediscovered by hippies, surfers, and travelers looking for adventure beyond Rio’s urban energy.
With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and lagoons, plains, and mountains on the other, Saquarema is a destination of singular beauty.
Brazil’s Surf Capital
Saquarema proudly holds the titles of:
“Surf Capital of Brazil”
“The Maracanã of Surf”
Its waves are powerful, consistent, and breathtaking. Few beaches in Brazil match the size and strength of Saquarema’s swells. During the 1970s, when surfing gained popularity in Brazil, the town became the main stage for the country’s most famous surfing festivals.
The top beaches for surfing include:
Praia de Itaúna
Praia da Vila
Here, waves can easily surpass 9 feet, even in open sea conditions.
40 Miles of Beaches and Outdoor Adventure
Saquarema boasts nearly 40 miles of crystal-clear water and 12 different beaches, including both oceanfront and lakeside options.
Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy:
Fishing competitions
Jet skiing
Diving
Sailing
Water skiing
The Church of Our Lady of Nazareth (1630) offers one of the region’s most beautiful sunsets.
Beach kiosks — Brazilian style — sell coconut water, açaí bowls, beer, and appetizers, becoming natural meeting points for locals and tourists alike.
For adventure sports lovers, the town also offers:
A “free flight” ramp near Sampaio Corrêa Beach
A motocross track at Itaúna Beach
The Brazilian Volleyball Training Center
History, Culture & Sunset Views
Saquarema combines natural beauty with strong infrastructure, typical cuisine, and historical monuments.
One of its most iconic attractions is the Church of Our Lady of Nazareth, built in 1630 and patroness of the city. Beyond its religious importance, it is known as one of the best sunset viewpoints in the region, offering feelings of peace, happiness, and freedom.
Other highlights include:
The Maritime Cemetery
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
Morro da Cruz lookout
Lagoons of Jaconé, Vermelha, and Jacarepiá
Mato Grosso mountain range
Archeological “Sambaquis” sites, preserving records from thousands of years ago
Saquarema is truly a rare seaside paradise — a place ruled by leisure, where one can do everything or nothing at all.
A Perfect Escape from Stress
Saquarema is ideal for anyone needing a break — whether for a weekend getaway or a full vacation.
Visitors can disconnect from work and stress, enjoy line fishing or trawl fishing, and savor abundant seasonal seafood like fish, shrimp, and crabs.
The town is also an attractive alternative to Rio’s traditional Carnaval. Visitors can enjoy both nature’s beauty and the lively Saquarema Carnaval celebrations.
Tourist Support & Cultural Hub
The Feliciano Soares da Silva Tourist Center (CAT) assists visitors with information about artistic, cultural, and gastronomical attractions.
This air-conditioned space features:
Wine displays
Music and art exhibitions
Informational pamphlets with original photos and statistical data
It serves as a valuable gateway for discovering the best of Saquarema.
Surf, lagoons, history, and adventure in one place. Photo by Jorge Paqueta
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Saquarema called the Surf Capital of Brazil?
Saquarema earned the title due to its powerful, consistent waves — especially at Praia de Itaúna — and its historic role in hosting major surfing festivals since the 1970s.
2. How far is Saquarema from Rio de Janeiro?
Saquarema is located approximately 72 miles (about 115 km) from Rio de Janeiro.
3. What are the best beaches in Saquarema?
Praia de Itaúna and Praia da Vila are the most famous, especially for surfing, but the city has 12 beaches in total.
4. Is Saquarema good for families or only surfers?
It is ideal for both. Besides surfing, the town offers lagoons, historical attractions, cultural sites, fishing, and adventure sports.
5. Why is Saquarema attractive to Brazilians living in the U.S.?
For Brazilians abroad, Saquarema represents nature, simplicity, surf culture, and emotional reconnection with Brazil’s coastal lifestyle.
