Paraty beaches and islands: where boat tours stop
Many of Paraty’s most beautiful beaches have no road access: you get there by boat. These are the best-known stops in the bay and the tours that visit each of them.
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Ilha dos Cocos
A natural aquarium: clear water and schools of colorful fish that swim right up to snorkelers. It is on the route of the Schooner Aquamarina II, the speedboat tour to Saco do Mamanguá and the private boats’ Classic route.
- South Route aboard the Schooner Aquamarina II – Paraty, RJ — Explore the stunning beaches of Paraty aboard the new Aquamarina II schooner on an unforgettable tour full of adventure and comfort! From R$ 115 per person · approx. 5 hours
Lagoa Azul
A turquoise natural pool with calm water, perfect for floating. It is a stop on the Schooner Aquamarina II and on the private boats’ Classic and Paradises & Snorkel routes.
Praia da Lula
One of the bay’s postcard views: pale sand, calm water and forest down to the shore. A stop on the Schooner Aquamarina II and the Classic route.
Praia Vermelha
A strip of pale sand framed by green, on the private boats’ Classic route.
Praia da Conceição and Praia do Jurumirim
Quiet beaches for swimming and free diving. Praia da Conceição is the last stop of the Schooner Aquamarina II; both appear on the Paradises & Snorkel route.
Ilha Comprida
Clear water and fewer people: it is the first stop on the Paradises & Snorkel route.
Saco da Velha
An unspoiled beach with rocky shores and a small cave, on the way to Saco do Mamanguá.
Ilha da Cotia and Ilha do Mantimento
Stops on the Mamanguá Express route: snorkeling at Ilha da Cotia and a photo break at Ilha do Mantimento.
Which tour to choose
- To see the classics in one day: the Schooner Aquamarina II, with Ilha dos Cocos, Praia da Lula, Lagoa Azul and Praia da Conceição.
- To avoid the crowds: the Schooner Poseidon on the north route, or a private boat on the Paradises & Snorkel route.
- To go further: the speedboat to Saco do Mamanguá. See also our Mamanguá guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful beach in Paraty?
Everyone has a favorite, but Praia da Lula, Lagoa Azul and Ilha dos Cocos are always near the top. Outside the bay, the beaches of Trindade and Saco do Mamanguá are not to be missed either.
Can you reach Lagoa Azul without a boat?
No. Lagoa Azul and most of Paraty’s islands can only be reached by boat, on a schooner or speedboat tour.
Where can you snorkel in Paraty?
Ilha dos Cocos is the best spot to see fish up close. Bring your own mask; on the speedboats, masks are already on board.
Tours to book
- Poseidon Schooner — North Route | Paraty, RJ — Forget the traditional route! Sail along the most preserved coastline of Paraty aboard the Poseidon Schooner, a new and modern vessel with an exclusive route along the North side — quiet beaches, crystal-clear waters and picture-perfect scenery. From R$ 130 per person · approx. 6 hours
- Speedboat Tour through Saco do Mamanguá — Explore the stunning tropical fjord of Brazil on an exciting speedboat tour leaving from Paraty, diving into crystal-clear waters and admiring the lush Atlantic Forest! From R$ 250 per person · approx. 6 hours
- Private Speedboat in Paraty – Praiana — Discover paradise with a private speedboat tour in Paraty, exploring stunning beaches with comfort and exclusivity! R$ 1.400 for the whole boat · 5 to 6 hours