Why you should visit the Green Coast (Costa Verde) of Sao Paulo, Brazil: Ilhabela, Ubatuba, and more
- Rachel
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
The Green Coast of Sao Paulo, known in Portuguese as Costa Verde, is a coastal area in the southern part of the state of São Paulo. The name refers to the stunning green forest that reaches the sea along most of the coastline, meeting the Atlantic Ocean at the eastern edge. It covers the shoreline from Bertioga through Ilhabela and Ubatuba, to the border with Rio de Janeiro state and includes beaches, Atlantic Forest, rivers and offshore islands.
The region contains protected areas such as Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar and Parque Estadual de Ilhabela. Ilhabela is one of the largest island areas in Brazil with about 347 square kilometres of mountainous land of which over 85% is protected state park. Further up the coast, Ubatuba has more than one hundred beaches, including Praia do Félix for calm water and Itamambuca for surfing.
Meanwhile, Bertioga provides mangrove areas where you can kayak or take boat trips along the Itapanhau and Jaguareguava Rivers. The Green Coast region is about three hours by road from the city of São Paulo which makes the Green Coast a popular choice for short getaways from the city.
Don't have time to read the whole article? > Find cheap accommodation for your stay in Ilhabela > Find cheap bus tickets to Ilhabela > Book a sail boat tour around Ubatuba
Where is the Green Coast (Costa Verde) of Sao Paulo
Major Cities & Towns on the Green Coast
The Green Coast of São Paulo includes towns and cities with distinct characters, combining beaches, forested hills, and coastal culture.
Bertioga is the northern gateway to the Green Coast. It has long stretches of sandy beaches such as Praia da Enseada, Praia do Indaiá, and quieter areas like Praia de Guaratuba. The town is known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and preserved mangrove areas along the Jaguareguava River, where kayaking and small boat tours are popular. Forte São João, a colonial-era fort, adds a historical stop to the visit.
São Sebastião is a larger coastal town and serves as a transport hub with ferry access to Ilhabela. The town has a lively atmosphere with a mix of restaurants, cafés, and bars. Beaches such as Maresias attract surfers with strong waves, while Juquehy and Paúba offer calmer waters for swimming and family groups. São Sebastião also provides access to hiking trails in the surrounding Atlantic Forest, waterfalls and natural pools. Its historic centre has colonial architecture to explore.
Ilhabela is an island with a strong eco-tourism focus. Its more than 40 beaches include Praia do Curral, Praia do Bonete, Praia da Feiticeira and Praia do Julião. The island’s interior is covered by preserved Atlantic Forest with hiking trails leading to waterfalls, including Cachoeira da Laje and Cachoeira do Gato. Ilhabela’s vibe is laid-back but vibrant, attracting hikers, rock climbers, divers, and sailors.
Ubatuba is known for its long mountainous coastline with over 100 beaches, each offering a different vibe and activities. Itamambuca is a hub for surfing and hosts national and international competitions, while Praia do Félix offers calmer waters ideal for families. Ubatuba also attracts divers and snorkelers to explore nearby islands and marine parks. The town’s streets and markets give a local, authentic Brazilian coastal experience, with artisanal food, fresh seafood and traditional festivals. The surrounding Serra do Mar State Park provides special opportunities for trekking and wildlife spotting.
Caraguatatuba is a larger city that combines urban amenities with easy beach access. Popular beaches include Praia Martim de Sá and Praia do Indaiá, which are suitable for swimming and water sports. The city has a busier feel than some smaller coastal towns, with more hotels, restaurants and shops. It is also a practical base for exploring northern beaches of Ubatuba and nearby trails in the Serra do Mar. Caraguatatuba’s atmosphere balances active city life with coastal leisure and access to natural areas.
Top Things to see and do in the Green Coast Region
The Green Coast is a perfect getaway for those looking for outdoor activities, water sports, or relaxing by some of Brazil's most beautiful beaches.
Bertioga
Watch the sunset on Praia de São Lourenço
Kayak or take a small boat tour along the Itapanhau River (boat tour).
Explore Forte São João, a small colonial-era fort with historical exhibits
São Sebastião
Try stand-up paddle boarding in the calm waters of Praia de Pitangueiras
Go hiking to see one of the dozen waterfalls around Sao Sebastião, such as Cachoeira de Calhetas
Take boat tours to nearby islands such or Ilhabela’s southern coast
Ilhabela
Hike the Castelhanos trail to reach pristine remote beaches and viewpoints
Visit Praia do Curral and Praia do Bonete for swimming, and water sports.
Go scuba diving or snorkelling around the island’s reefs to see tropical fish and shipwrecks
Explore the island's waterfalls, including Cachoeira do Gato, Cachoeira da Laje, and Cachoeira da Paqueta
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board to explore the island’s northern and eastern beaches
Ubatuba
Surf at Itamambuca or Praia Vermelha do Norte, or watch a surf competition
Swim or relax at one of Ubatuba's 100 beaches
Hike the 7 beaches trail (hiking guide)
Take boat trips to nearby islands such as Ilha Anchieta and Ilha das Couves for diving and snorkelling (boat tour)
Take a small group sailing trip (tickets)
Explore waterfalls and hiking trails in the Serra do Mar State Park (3 day park tour)
Caraguatatuba
Have a capirinha at a barraca on the beach at Praia da Cocanha
Relax at Praia Martim de Sá and Praia do Indaiá
What to eat on the Green Coast
Cuisine along the Green Coast is heavily based on fresh seafood and local produce. Grilled or fried fish such as robalo, anchova and namorado are common, often served with rice, beans, farofa and salad. Local shellfish, shrimp, squid, crab, and oysters are widely available, particularly in seaside restaurants and in barracas (tents) on the beach.
Beach kiosks offer snacks such as bolinho de bacalhau (fried codfish balls), pastel de camarão (shrimp pastry) and fried fish. Coconut water and fresh fruit juices are popular along the beaches. Try local desserts such as cocada (coconut sweet) or bananas caramelised with sugar, often sold at markets or local fairs.
How to get to the Green Coast from Sao Paulo City
The easiest way to reach the Green Coast, 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 Sao Paulo to the Green Coast are around 2-3+ 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:
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
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