12 Beach Hopping itineraries in Brazil

Brazil has a coastline to envy and its beaches are some of the nicest in the world. We have prepared  12 itineraries from the north to the south of Brazil, taking in the nicest places to visit. You will find a beach for every taste and there is always a place where you can go at any time during the year and have good sunshine. If it rains in the north, it is sunny in the south, and the other way around. We have handpicked the best charming boutique hotels, Brazil has a lot of quality accommodation to offer along its beaches. Either if you are traveling with children or with a group of friends, on your honeymoon, or if you are a solo traveler – you have so much to choose from. The food is delicious and organic, the views are dreamy and the vibe is laid-back. South of Brazil is a bit more crowded,  whereas the northeast is really off the beaten track. Discover the beaches of Brazil in the 12  carefully designed itineraries below. 

Boutique Travel Experts is a small independent tour operator specializing in Brazil. All our trips are tailor-made. We work with small hotels and local guides, encouraging sustainable tourism and supporting responsible practices. We have traveled extensively in Brazil, and we know the country inside-out. There are many safe national parks and we want to show you the beauty of Brazil through our beach-hopping itineraries.  

1. Route of Emotions –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/route-of-emotions/ Itinerary: Fortaleza, Jericoacoara, Camocim, Parnaiba, Atins, Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, Sao Luis Length / Price: 10 days / from $2500 per person 

Best Boutique Hotels: La Ferme de Georges, The Chili Beach, Ilha dos Poldros When to visit: June to late September. Best in August 

The Route of Emotions Tour is a scenic 10-day privately guided itinerary exceptionally designed for nature lovers, who enjoy beaches and castaway rustic luxury. Geographically, this sightseeing route will take you through three (!) states in the northeast of Brazil – Ceará, Piauí, and Maranhão. Walk barefoot through a beautiful landscape of white-sand dunes and azure lagoons in the national park of Lençóis Maranhenses. Admire the picturesque course of the Preguicas River during the transfer from  Barreirinhas to Atins. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of remote fishing villages, take kitesurfing lessons, go horse-riding and experience the slow lifestyle of North-Eastern Brazil. This road trip is without doubt one of the most breathtaking itineraries in Brazil, and certainly, one of the highlights of South America. You can start either in the city of Fortaleza or in São Luiz. Ideally, add a few more days in Atins and Jericoacoara. The Route of Emotions is an excellent choice for family traveling with children, a group of friends, or couples who like active trips, as well as for senior travelers. The program includes accommodation at small boutique hotels with a lot of comfort and charm.

2. Ceara Buggy Safari –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/ceara-buggy-safari/

Itinerary: Fortaleza, Cumbuco, Taiba, Paracuru, Trairi, Guajiru, Flecheiras, Mundau, Icarai, Prea,  Jericoacoara, Tatajuba 

Length / Price: 8 days / from $2300 per person 

Best Boutique Hotels: Carmel Cumbuco, Zorah Beach, Casana, Rancho do Peixe, Villa Mandi When to visit: June to late September. Best in August 

This 8-day dune and beaches buggy safari along endless stretches of sandy beaches is an unforgettable experience that will give you a flavor of Ceara’s coastline in Brazil. Starting in  Fortaleza, the tour heads towards the northwest, all the way to Jericoacoara National Park. If you are looking for a mix of calm deserted beaches, this trip is for you. Stop in Taíba with its long peaceful beaches, then move to the idyllic Trairi, known for its picturesque white sands. Arrive in the castaway village of Jericoacoara with its vibrant nightlife and laid-back vibe. Discover picturesque dunes, crystalline lagoons, lazy fishing villages, rivers, palm groves, and a community of wave-riders.  This is an off-road adventure trip that would be a great choice for active travelers, including kitesurfers and surfers, who want to move along different beaches and practice watersports. The itinerary can be adjusted and changed in many ways. Stay in charming beach villas and indulge in the relaxed beach lifestyle of Brazil’s northeast. 

3. Fortaleza to Natal –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/fortaleza-to-natal/

Itinerary: Fortaleza, Canoa Quebrada, Ponta do Mel, Galinhos, Sao Miguel do Gostoso, Pititinga,  Maracaju, Natal Length / Price: 8 days / from $2600 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Vila Selvagem, Mi Secreto Pousada & Spa When to visit: June to February, best in July-August On this 8-day guided beach hopping trip you with travel from Fortaleza to Natal, discovering the north-eastern beaches of Brazil in the states of Ceara and Rio Grande do Norte. Visit Canoa  Quebrada, Ponta do Mel, Galinhos, São Miguel do Gostoso, Pititinga, Maracajau and more. Red and orange beach cliffs, long deserted beaches, crystalline natural pools formed at low tide, sleeping fishermen villages at the end of the world, large sand dunes – this trip is perfect for those who like off-the-beaten-track destinations, with authentic local flavor and lots of authenticity. Practice water sports, go snorkeling near wonderful coral reefs at low tide, try succulent seafood, watch beautiful sunsets and spend a week relaxing on different castaway beaches. The itinerary is balanced, giving you time to get a good feeling of each place. The itinerary can be adapted and changed if needed. You can start either in Fortaleza or in Natal. There is a mix of high-end and rustic hotels on the itinerary. This trip is a great option for all adventure seekers, kitesurfers, nature lovers and travelers who are looking for beautiful non-touristy destinations. 

4. Natal to Recife –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/natal-to-recife/ Itinerary: Natal, Pipa, Pedra da Bocaina, Cariri, Baia de Traicao, Joao Pessoa, Olinda, Recife Length / Price: 12 days / from $3400 per person 

Best Boutique Hotels: Madeiro Beach Hotel, Filha da Lua, Toca do Coruja When to visit: August to February, best in October-November This 12-day guided beach hopping tour will take you from Natal to Recife, along three Brazilian states: Rio Grande do Norte, Paraiba, and Pernambuco. This itinerary combines a mixture of adventure, relaxation, gastronomy, history, and culture, including famous sites and surprising hidden gems. You will discover an array of different beaches, from popular surf spots to quieter coves with calm waters. Take a boat trip in Pipa to spot dolphins and further south in Baia da Traicao go searching for turtles and manatees. Learn about the culture of the Potiguara indigenous community and visit the small picturesque colonial towns of Areia and Olinda. In the cities of Natal, Joao Pessoa, and  Recife discover the north-eastern urban vibes. Apart from beautiful tropical beaches, the Northeast of Brazil holds many wonderful secrets in its little-known interior, in the midst of wild landscapes shaped over millions of years. Visit the wonderful sites of Cariri, Pedra da Boca and Pedra do Inga.  This is a fantastic and mystical experience for those who have an interest in geology and paleontology.  The itinerary can start both in Natal and in Recife. The program can be adapted in many ways. 

5. Fernando de Noronha –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/fernando-de-noronha/ Itinerary: Olinda, Fernando de Noronha, Recife 

Length / Price: 8 days / from $1700 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Pousada Maravilha, Nannai Noronha When to visit: August to December  The Fernando de Noronha Tour is a private guided itinerary in Brazil. This is an 8-day beach holiday which will also appeal to culturally curious travelers. The state of Pernambuco is colorful and has a rich history and stunning natural sites. Starting on the mainland, visit the picturesque colonial town of  Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Placed on a hill overlooking the city of Recife and the ocean,  it is one of the best-preserved historic places in Brazil. After a short flight, land in the spectacular archipelago of Fernando de Noronha. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, this remote island is a  protected marine park, unique in South America. Virgin white sand beaches, counted among the best in the world, turquoise crystal-clear waters, rich marine life – heaven, truly. The island offers plenty of opportunities to keep active if you choose to. Take scenic hikes to enjoy the countless panoramic views, go snorkeling or diving, take surfing lessons, or explore the island on a quad bike. You will stay at a small charming property. This tour is a great option for a romantic honeymoon holiday. We give you the freedom to explore the island and dine out, however, on request, an all-inclusive basis is possible as well. 

6. Salvador to Recife –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/salvador-to-recife/

Itinerary: Salvador, Praia do Forte, Aracaju, Penedo, Maceio, Sao Miguel dos Milagres, Porto de  Galinhas, Recife, Olinda Length / Price: 11 days / from $3600 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Pontal dos Carneiros, Pedras do Patacho, Pousada da Amendoeira When to visit: year-round, avoid June-July because of rain, best September to February This 11-day guided beach hopping tour in Brazil will take you from Salvador to Recife, along the magical northeastern coastline through the four states: Bahia, Sergipe (the smallest state of Brazil),  Pernambuco, and Alagoas. The last two are often called the ‘Caribbean of Brazil’ due to their stunning clear waters and relaxed vibe. This trip is packed with fun activities every day.  Discover beautiful tropical beaches sheltered by tall coconut palm trees, cross rivers that run into the ocean, swim in natural pools created at low tide, snorkel or dive with colorful fish, learn about sea turtle and manatees conservation projects, marvel at the colonial heritage of Brazil and much more. This itinerary is a perfect plan for beach lovers who also like to put a bit of culture into their holiday. This program is a great choice for an active family getaway as well as for couples who like to combine relaxation with discovering new places. Stay in charming small inns and soak in the beach culture of Brazil. This trip can also be done the other way around, starting in Recife and finishing in  Salvador. We can adapt the program in many ways. 

7. Costa de Dende & Costa de Cacau –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/costa-do-dende and-costa-do-cacau/

Itinerary: Salvador, Morro de Sao Paulo, Boipeba, Marau, Barra Grande, Itacare, Ilheus Length / Price: 10 days / from £2,800 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Vila dos Orixas, Pousada Mangabeiras, Casa dos Arandis, Villa Kandui,  Barracuda, KA BRU When to visit: September to March, avoid April to June because of rain On this 10-day guided beach hopping tour you will discover the beautiful off-the-beaten-track tropical beaches of Bahia in Brazil. This region is considered the cultural center of Brazil and impresses with its Afro-Brazilian traditions, gastronomy, and music. You will travel along the romantic  Costa do Dende and Costa do Cacau from Salvador to Ilheus, visiting Morro de São Paulo, Tinharé  Archipelago, Boipeba, Maraú Peninsula, Camamu, Barra Grande, and Itacare. On the way, you will encounter paradise-like semi-deserted beaches, quilombos and colonial towns, mangroves, and the protected Atlantic Rainforest. Active travelers can enjoy various outdoor activities like abseiling,  rafting, canoeing, hiking, ecological trails, and surfing. Learn about chocolate production, try capoeira, and get a Brazilian tan. Stay at small boutique hotels. The program can be altered in many ways and can be done the other way around, starting in Ilheus and going up to Salvador. This is a great option for nature lovers, families, and couples. 

8. Cocoa Coast Bike Circuit –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/cacao-coast-bike-circuit/ Itinerary: Ilheus, Urucuca, Serra Grande, Conduru, Itacare, Taboquinhas 

Length / Price: 7 days / from $3000 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Barracuda, KA BRU, Txai Itacare When to visit: September to February, avoid April to June because of rain This 07-day guided bike circuit will take you to Costa do Cacau in the south of Bahia, starting in  Ilheus. Here, the climate is tropical, with an average temperature of 27 º C year-round. The itinerary brings together beautiful nature, history, culture, good gastronomy, and biking. Surrounded by the lush Atlantic Rainforest, the region features deserted beaches, rivers, lagoons, clear water waterfalls, and a historic heritage of cacao farming, with century-old rural farms. Rocky mountains hide, in their secluded coves, small and delicate fine-sand beaches, sheltered by dreamy coconut groves. Visit historic farms and taste high-quality chocolate, learning about organic practices. Try yourself at Capoeira – south of Bahia is, without doubt, one of the best places to be introduced to the famous  Brazilian martial art. Stay in beautiful boutique hotels, and taste fresh seafood and organic recipes. The tour was exceptionally designed for adventure seekers – it is a great option for travelers who enjoy physically active holidays. 

9. Secret Bahia –

   https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/secret-bahia/

Itinerary: Porto Seguro, Coroa Vermelha, Trancoso, Praia do Espelho, Caraiva, Porto do Boi,  Corumbau, Tatuassu Length / Price: 9 days / from $2400 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Villa Fulo, Cala & Divino, Sao Francisco de Corumbau, Uxua, Tatubel, Etnia When to visit: year-round, best November to March The Secret Bahia Tour is a 9-day beach holiday program packed with a bit of history and culture in the northeast of Brazil. This region enjoys year-round sunshine and is a great choice for a holiday anytime around the year. Discover the outstanding natural beauty of the Bahian coast, one of the best places in South America to enjoy the beach. Visit the historic town of Porto Seguro, the laid-back village of Trancoso, and pristine white-sand beaches. Meet the indigenous Pataxo tribe and learn about their traditional way of life. Discover miles of coastline with crystal clear waters and tidal natural pools. Sip in the relaxed atmosphere of Trancoso and Caraiva, in the shade of tall coconut groves. In the evening, dine at rustic restaurants in the vibrant Quadrado, enjoying live music. Simple and magical. For active travelers, the south of Bahia is a great place to learn capoeira and surfing. This program is suitable for families traveling with children, as well as couples, groups of friends, and senior travelers. The tour includes accommodation at small boutique pousadas with a lot of comfort and charm. 

10. Costa do Sol –

    https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/hike-and-beach/

Itinerary: Rio de Janeiro, Petropolis, Teresopolis, Nova Friburgo, Buzios, Cabo Frio, Arraial do Cabo,  Rio de Janeiro Length / Price: 10 days / from $2900 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Vila da Santa, Pedra da Laguna, Enseada das Garcas When to visit: March to May, September to November This 10-day guided trip will take you through the state of Rio de Janeiro, from the imperial cities of  Petropolis and Teresopolis, through lush green valleys of Serra dos Orgaos National Park and Tres  Picos State Park, and ending nicely on the azure beaches of Costa do Sol. Hike along some of the most scenic trails in Brazil, stay in charming mountain huts, go horse riding, taste organic delicacies from the mountains, and then relax on the beach for a few days. Many of the trails can be done with children, being short, scenic, and well-signposted. Stop for beautiful picnics in nature. Heading towards the coast, white sands and incredible shades of blue-green are waiting for you in Buzios,  Cabo Frio and Arraial do Cabo. The Lagos Region is a true paradise worth visiting at least once in your life. Between June and October, you may come across whales during boat trips, which appear off the coast. Can you imagine how incredible it is to see these giant mammals up close? This is also a great destination for diving and you are sure to swim past turtles in this area. The program can be adapted, depending on your interests. A great itinerary for active travelers, with a relaxing time on the beach at the end. 

11. Costa Verde –

    https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/costa-verde/

Itinerary: Sao Paulo, Santos, Guaruja, Ilhabela, Ubatuba, Paraty, Mamangua, Angra dos Reis, Ilha  Grande, Rio de Janeiro Length / Price: 13 days / from $3600 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Villa Bom Jardim, Casa Cairucu, O Sitio, Fasano Angra dos Reis When to visit: March to May, September to November This 13-day guided itinerary will take you to Costa Verde, a beautiful region of São Paulo and Rio de  Janeiro states in Brazil, one of the world’s greatest eco-destinations. This program takes in a pinch of colonial history and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and a lot of beach hopping. Visit the tropical wild places of Ilhabela and Ubatuba, the historic town of Santos, Paraty, and Angra dos Reis, the pristine nature of Saco do Mamanguá, and more. Hike in Serra de Bocaina  National Park, a region of incredible biodiversity, home to sloths, monkeys, and big cats, as well as a rich historic past. Emerald-jade waters, lush landscapes, white-sand beaches, islands, and the colossal mountain range – Costa Verde is beyond picturesque. Stay in charming hotels, meet the local caicara people, and try organic food prepared with love. The trip can be adapted to a different length. This is a great option for nature lovers who are looking to spend time closer to nature, but also to history and culture mongers, who like to go back in time to authentic places. 

12. Southern Brazil Beaches –

    https://boutiquetravelexperts.com/brazil/southern-brazil-beaches/

Itinerary: Curitiba, Morretes, Antonina, Ilha do Mel, Bombinhas, Florianopolis, Guarda do Embau,  Praia do Rosa Length / Price: 11 days / from $3500 per person Best Boutique Hotels: Ponta dos Ganchos, Fazenda Verde by Neco, Pousada Rêmora When to visit: November to April, but January to March is also the rainy season, Best is September  to November  This 11-day beach hopping tour in the southeast of Brazil will take you from Curitiba in Parana to the beaches of Santa Catarina. Travel in a historic train along the magical Atlantic Forest, to the charming villages of Morretes and Antonina, visit the secluded island of Ilha do Mel, then head down south to the beaches of Bombinhas. It is well worth stopping for a few days in the modern city of  Florianopolis which has so much to offer. Later head on to the beautiful hidden gem of Guarda do  Embau and finish off in the renowned Praia do Rosa. In the right season, you can definitely see whales here. The South of Brazil has long beaches with calm waters, perfect for families traveling with toddlers. Swim, snorkel, go on easy hikes, take boat trips, practice stand-up paddling, learn how to surf, and more. Stay in charming small hotels, taste local delicacies, and recharge your batteries. The length of the trip can be adapted and the start and finish can be the other way around.

Related Articles:

• Spokane in the Spring: Your Guide to the Season’s Best
• Travel to the Costa del Sol: Transport, Places of Interest and Best Beaches