Why you should visit the Lakes Region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Arraial do Cabo, Cabo Frio, Búzios

The Lakes Region of Rio de Janeiro, known in Portuguese as Região dos Lagos, is a coastal area in the eastern part of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It stretches roughly from the city of Saquarema in the west to the tip of Cabo Frio in the east, covering a mix of lagoons, beaches, and small towns. The Lakes Region is known for its combination of calm lagoons suitable for water sports and long stretches of sandy beaches that attract tourists year-round.

The region is named for its large lagoons and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the southern edge. Lagoa de Araruama is one of the largest permanent hypersaline lagoons in the world, at 220 square kilometres in size.

The area creates a beautiful contrast between its inland freshwater lagoons and the ocean, providing a variety of opportunities for water sports. The region is home to several small towns and cities with distinct vibes, each with their own unique attractions and vibes. Its natural beauty and proximity to the city, just 3 hours drive from Rio de Janeiro, makes the Lakes Region one of the most visited areas in the state.

Praia Brava, Buzios

Don't have time to read the whole article? > Find cheap accommodation for your stay in Buzios > Find cheap bus tickets to Buzios > Book a full-day boat trip around the Lakes Region

Where is the Lakes Region (Região dos Lagos) of Rio de Janeiro

Major Cities & Towns in the Lakes Region

The Lakes Region is made up of several towns and cities, each with its own character and attractions.

Cabo Frio is one of the most popular destinations in the area. Known for its wide, white sandy beaches and clear waters, it has a lively atmosphere with a mix of beach bars, restaurants, and shops. Its historic centre, with colonial-era architecture, adds a cultural touch to a city otherwise dominated by seaside leisure.

Armação dos Búzios, a short drive from Cabo Frio, is known for its upscale vibe. The town gained international attention in the 1960s and has retained its charm with boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. The coastline features more than 20 beaches, each with a unique personality, from quiet bays ideal for swimming to windier spots popular with surfers.

Arraial do Cabo, adds to the diversity of the region. Arraial do Cabo is famous for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional diving opportunities. The town is often called the “Brazilian Caribbean” due to its visibility underwater and abundance of marine life. It attracts divers from across the country and offers boat tours to beaches such as Praia do Farol and Praia do Forno, known for their pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters.

Araruama, situated along the shore of Lagoa de Araruama, has a calmer atmosphere compared to Cabo Frio and Búzios. The town is popular for water sports such as sailing and kiteboarding, taking advantage of the lagoon’s shallow and consistent winds. Its slower pace makes it a good base for those wanting to explore the surrounding towns without the crowds.

Saquarema, known as the “National Capital of Surfing” in Brazil, offers a more local, authentic vibe. It combines beach life with small-town charm, featuring a traditional fishing community and cultural events that attract both surfers and tourists looking for a less commercialised experience.

Iguaba Grande provides a quieter experience along the lagoon shores. It is situated by the Lagoa de Araruama and is known for calm waters and a relaxed pace. The town has walking trails, family-friendly parks, and waterfront restaurants that make it a peaceful stop for those seeking a slower rhythm between visits to busier coastal towns.

Top Things to See and Do in the Lakes Region

Arraial do Cabo, Brazil

The Lakes Region offers a variety of outdoor and cultural activities, as well as plenty of options for those who just want to relax. Whether swimming, diving, sailing, or exploring towns with unique atmospheres, there are activities to suit every traveller. Here are some of the top things to see and do in the lakes region:

• Visit Praia do Forte in Cabo Frio for long stretches of white‑sand beach, swimming and beach games.

• Explore the historic Forte São Mateus near Praia do Forte

• Walk along Rua das Pedras in Búzios: browse art galleries, cafés, boutiques, and enjoy the nightlife

• Relax at Ferradura Beach (Búzios): calm waters, good for kayaking and snorkelling

• Visit Geribá Beach (Búzios): for surfing, windsurfing, and a more active beach vibe

• In Arraial do Cabo, go snorkelling in its clear waters and explore beaches such as Praia do Forno and Pontal do Atalaia

• Try scuba diving to experience the region's marine life up close (book a scuba trip)

• Take a private or shared boat tour to hidden beaches and islands, like Ilha do Cabo Frio

• Go hiking in the Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol and discover hidden natural pools (guides available)

• At Lagoa de Araruama in Araruama: try sailing, kitesurfing or wind‑surfing

• Go bird‑watching in Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol and look out for local wildlife

• Visit Praia de Itaúna in Saquarema, known as a national surfing centre for big‑wave surfers.

• Explore local history and culture in São Pedro da Aldeia: visit the town’s historic church and museum, and relax by the lagoon

• Catch a sunset at Praia das Conchas in Araruama ,or viewpoints in Saquarema

• Visit lesser‑known towns like Iguaba Grande for quieter lake‑shores and a more relaxed pace

What to eat in the Lakes Region

Cuisine in the Lakes Region is focused on fresh seafood taken from local waters. One of the best things to order is a whole fish such as anchova, namorado and robalo, grilled or BBQed, and served with several accompaniments such rice, salad, farofa, beans, or pirão. Local crab, squid, and shrimp dishes are common, as well as freshly caught oysters.

If you're looking for a snack, head to a beach kiosks for some Brazilian classics, including pastel de camarão (shrimp pastry), and bolinho de bacalhau (fried fish balls).

How to get to the Lakes Region from Rio de Janeiro

The easiest way to reach the Lakes Region, which also gives you freedom to explore the region during your stay, is to rent a car. This will allow you to visit all of the surrounding beaches and towns in the area at your own pace and will ultimately save you money on Ubers or taxis. Travel times from Rio to the Lakes Region are around 2.5 - 3+ hours, depending on traffic and your exact final destination. Travel in the peak season is slower due to traffic congestion.

If you plan to take a bus or transfer service, there are several options available:

• Private transfers with airport or hotel pick-up (book)

• Shared mini-van transfers with hotel pick up and drop off (book)

• Regular intercity buses run from the Novo Rio Bus Terminal to Cabo Frio (book), Arraial do Cabo (book), Búzios (book), and Saquarema (book)

More resources for planning your trip to Brazil

• Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. Or, rent a car and give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace.

• Find your perfect accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels

• You're not ready to travel until you have travel insurance. I recommend Safety Wing to my friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. Get a free quote

• Forgetting something? Read my packing check-list for Brazil, and my list of 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil