São Sebastião, on the coast of São Paulo, has just been voted one of the most underrated cities in the world. The title came from the British magazine Time Out, which ranked 24 “off the beaten track” destinations, i.e. impressive places that most tourists overlook.
According to the British, the municipality “is the ideal refuge for beach lovers, surfers and divers”, offering crystal-clear, tranquil beaches, walks through the historic colonial center and sustainable gastronomy. However, few people in the world (or even in Brazil) know about its beauties.
But we at São Paulo Secreto love finding hidden places around the state, and we love sharing them with our readers even more. So if you’re looking for a quiet destination on the coast you’ve found the right place! Here are some of the attractions that make São Sebastião an unmissable tourist destination.
What to do in São Sebastião (SP)?
Toque-Toque Pequeno Beach
The Time Out article was not São Sebastião’s first appearance in foreign media. In 2006, the city appeared in an article in the New York Times, which named it one of the best on the São Paulo coast.
One of the local attractions praised in the article is Toque Toque Pequeno Beach. With its crystal-clear waters and quiet stretch of sand, it enchants tourists looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. What’s more, many consider it to have one of the most beautiful sunsets in the city!
São Francisco Archaeological Site
This archaeological site is located in the Serra do Mar State Park, in the heart of the Atlantic Forest. It’s the perfect attraction for those who enjoy historical and ecological tourism, because as well as hiking trails, it houses the ruins of an old chapel and slave farm from the 19th century.
The tour not only offers an incredible view of the local nature, but also allows you to see traces of life during the colonial period up close.
Humpback whale season
Every year, São Sebastião receives more than special visitors: humpback whales! These magnificent animals are usually present between May and July, when they leave Antarctica to reproduce in warmer waters.
At this time, you can take boat trips to get a closer look at the animals. At a permitted distance, of course, in a safe and sustainable way for both humans and animals. So if you want to see a whale with your own eyes, you already know when to book your trip!
Manacá Restaurant
Finally, another of São Sebastião’s highlights is Manacá. This coastal restaurant is in the middle of nature, allowing for a tasty and relaxing meal. In other words, as well as tasting caiçara cuisine, you can take some time out to soak up the beautiful native vegetation.
The place opened in 1988 as a small spot serving breakfast to surfers, and today it is a reference in the city. Certainly an attraction not to be missed.