The Ultimate Brazil Travel Guide: Morro de Sao Paulo

Morro de Sao Paulo's Beaches

Morro de São Paulo, located on Tinharé Island, is famous for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The island and its beaches are popular with both Brazilian and international tourists. There are four main beaches to visit on Morro de Sao Paulo, plus Gamboa and Garapuá. Most of the island's amenities are located in the town center.

First Beach (Primeira Praia)

This is the smallest of the main beaches, and is relatively uncrowded despite being the closest to the town centre. It’s a popular spot for surfing, and has a zip-line. There are several beachside bars and restaurants, as well as various pousadas (guesthouses).

Second Beach (Segunda Praia)

This is the liveliest and most popular beach in Morro de São Paulo. During the day, it’s a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and playing sports. There are courts for beach volleyball, footvolley, beach tennis, as well as a small outdoor gym. The water is calm and warm, and at low tide natural pools form among the rocks. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops lining the beach, with some offering beach chairs and umbrellas for customers. It is often busy, especially during peak season.

Third Beach (Terceira Praia)

This beach is quieter and more relaxed compared to Second Beach. It’s a great spot for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Morro de São Paulo without the crowds. The water is calm, making it ideal for swimming, though at high tide there is little space to sit on the sand. There are some beachfront resorts, hotels, and restaurants, but it’s overall less developed than the Second Beach.

Fourth Beach (Quarta Praia)

This is the longest and quietest of the beaches. The water is shallow and calm, and during low tide natural pools form among the coral reefs. It is ideal for long walks, with over 3.5 kilometres of sand. There are only a few small stalls and beach bars, so it is best to bring what you need. Horses are available for guided rides along the sand.

Gamboa Beach

Located west of Morro, Gamboa can be reached by boat or on foot, on a hiking trail or or at low tide by walking along the shore. The beach is known for its mineral rich clay, which visitors use for skin treatments. The water is calm and great for paddleboarding, and there are several restaurants and kiosks along the beach.

Garapuá Beach

Garapua is a fishing village south of Morro, accessible by bicycle tour, quad bikes, or on boat tours. The beach has natural pools formed by coral reefs at low tide, making it a popular spot for snorkelling. The area is less developed and has a few restaurants and simple bars near the beach.

Nightlife in Morro de São Paulo

Morro has several nightlife options spread across the village and beaches. The main venues include:

• Morena Bela: Hosts street samba every night from 8pm to 11pm, finishing punctually. The crowd usually starts dancing around 9.30 pm.

• Clandestino: A small speakeasy style bar with a garden area. The music programme changes daily, featuring different genres each night. Entry price varies day-to-day.

• Mamas: Located across the water and reached by boat. Best on Saturdays but also hosts a sunset party during the week. Tickets are required in advance, and includes the return boat trip.

• Toca do Morcego: A sunset venue located about 60 metres above sea level on one of the island’s highest points. It offers panoramic views and is best visited on Fridays when the bar is busiest. Entry price varies.

• Bamboo Jam: Live jam session held on Tuesdays at Bamboo Hostel. Entry is free. Various musicians play live music throughout the night, and the party attracts both locals and visitors.

Things to know before you go to Morro de Sao Paulo

The town center of Morro de Sao Paulo is small but has everything you need, including ATMs, pharmacies, and small supermarkets. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and nightlife. Some pousadas are located a short walk from the center in the jungle, offering a different experience from those located on the beach.

It is where boats from the mainland arrive, so it’s the entry point for most visitors to the island. The center of town is located on top of the hill (morro) that gives the town its name. It is charming with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. The area is home to historic sites such as the Morro de São Paulo Lighthouse and the Church of Nossa Senhora da Luz. The ruins of the 17th-century fort (Forte de Tapirandú) offer panoramic views of the ocean.

Is Morro de Sao Paulo safe for tourists

Morro de Sao Paulo is considered a safe destination for visitors. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it is a very different experience compared to larger Brazilian cities. As with any trip, it is still sensible to follow a few simple precautions, but these are more about peace of mind than real risk.

A few tips to stay safe in Morro de Sao Paulo:

• Keep an eye on your belongings at the beach, or ask someone to watch them if you go for a swim

• Don't walk around with large amounts of cash, carry only the cash you need for the day or a credit card

• At night, stick to the main streets or paths where other visitors and locals are walking

• Ask your pousada or host if you are unsure about the best routes or areas to explore

Travel insurance for Morro de Sao Paulo

Travel insurance is not just a nice-to-have, it is an important safety-net that can prevent a stressful incident from turning into an expensive disaster. The reality is that unexpected events can happen on any trip. Even something as simple as missing a connecting flight can lead to unexpected accommodation and transport costs. If you become unwell, medical bills in another country can quickly become expensive. Without insurance, you have to handle all of this on your own in an unfamiliar environment, possibly in a language you do not speak.

I have personally relied on travel insurance multiple times, including when I had belongings stolen in Europe, fell sick while travelling in Asia, and had flights cancelled. In each case, the support I received meant I could focus on solving the problem instead of worrying about costs.

For a small daily cost, you can be covered for a wide range of scenarios, from theft to delayed flights and medical emergencies. Having one phone number to call and a company that deals with the problem for you is worth far more than the price of the policy. I personally use Safety Wing, and I recommend them to friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. You can get a quote here.