Things to do in José Gonçalves

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Top places to visit

1. Geriba Beach

Geriba Beach is a large stretch of golden sand with bars serving shrimp and empanadas. The tranquil sandy haven has warm water and fairly large waves that lure surfers to its shores. Rent a surfboard or stand-up paddleboard to join your fellow watersports enthusiasts on the waves.
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Geriba Beach which includes general coastal views, a coastal town and a sandy beach

2. João Fernandes Beach

Praia de João Fernandes, or João Fernandes Beach, is one of the best-loved stretches of sand in the resort town of Búzios. Choose your spot here on the golden sand beneath a brightly colored beach umbrella. Prepare for a day of basking in golden sunlight, swimming in clear blue waters and taking photo after photo.
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Joao Fernandes Beach which includes a beach and general coastal views

3. Rua das Pedras

Rua das Pedras is the most famous street in the picturesque resort town of Búzios. Come here to shop for souvenirs in independent stores and galleries, sip coffee outside pretty cafés and experience Búzios’ lively nightlife.
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Rua das Pedras showing night scenes and a small town or village

4. Forte Beach

Long, scenic Forte Beach is the main strand of Cabo Frio. The busy bay, which takes its name from its historic fort, is packed with huts, lodgings and stores. Come here to enjoy stunning views of the verdant promontories overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
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Forte Beach which includes surf, surfing and general coastal views

5. Ferradura Beach

Praia Ferradura, or Ferradura Beach, is an idyllic crescent of sand on Búzios’ least busy coast, to the southwest. Located in one of the resort town’s wealthiest and most stylish neighborhoods, this glamorous beach is rumored to be a favorite with celebrities. It’s also an excellent place for a family day out. Bring or rent snorkeling masks and spend hours exploring the calm turquoise waters of this lovely cove.
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Ferradura Beach featuring a beach, a coastal town and swimming

6. Japanese Island

Japanese Island is a picturesque landmass in the center of a beachside lagoon in Cabo Frio. It is popular with stand-up paddleboarders and kayakers as well as sunbathers, who flock to its stunning beach. Walk the circumference of this tiny islet to take in its spectacular scenery.
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Japanese Island showing general coastal views and a sandy beach

7. Foguete Beach

Foguete Beach is a fairly remote and flat stretch of sand backed by a line of mossy green terrain. The beach itself is one of the quietest sites in the Cabo Frio region, while the ocean can be fairly wild at times, attracting watersports enthusiasts. Go windsurfing, kitesurfing or surfing on the mighty waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
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Foguete Beach featuring general coastal views and a beach

8. Dunas Beach

Dunas Beach is a stunning coastal strand featuring spectacular turquoise waters and soft, white sand. Located in the quiet southern outskirts of Cabo Frio, the beach is known for its utter seclusion and peaceful setting. Snap photos of the dense verdant vegetation that encloses the sandy bay.
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Dunas Beach which includes general coastal views, a coastal town and a beach

What to do in José Gonçalves

Popular places to visit

Geriba Beach which includes general coastal views, a coastal town and a sandy beach

Geriba Beach

Revel in the lively ambiance of the bars and restaurants of one of the most popular beaches in the Búzios region.

Geriba Beach
Rua das Pedras showing night scenes and a small town or village

Rua das Pedras

Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring the charming stores, galleries and cafés of this busy and colorful street, or head to one of the bars here that come alive after dark.

Rua das Pedras
Ferradura Beach featuring a beach, a coastal town and swimming

Ferradura Beach

The calm waters that lap this gorgeous horseshoe-shaped beach in an upmarket Búzios neighborhood are perfect for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling.

Ferradura Beach
Orla Bardot which includes general coastal views, a sandy beach and a sunset

Orla Bardot

Enjoy the ocean views and admire the fascinating statues of iconic figures and fishermen in this walkway tribute to a French diva.

Orla Bardot
Ferradurinha Beach showing general coastal views, rugged coastline and a beach

Ferradurinha Beach

Examine the unusual rocks, rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, and see the turtles and colorful fish in this calm, protected bay.

Ferradurinha Beach
Armacao Beach featuring general coastal views and a bay or harbor as well as a couple

Armacao Beach

Look out across the ocean from this golden beach in the liveliest area of Búzios and enjoy views of bobbing boats and a delightful statue.

Armacao Beach
Forno Beach featuring rocky coastline, general coastal views and a beach

Forno Beach

Hone your photography skills at this beach where the striking and unusual pink tinge to the sand makes for interesting vacation pictures.

Forno Beach
Brava Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views as well as a small group of people

Brava Beach

Surf on the wild waves that meet this scenic stretch of sand, which is pleasingly quiet compared to some of Búzios less secluded beaches.

Brava Beach
Tartaruga Beach

Tartaruga Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Tartaruga Beach during your travels in Búzios?

Tartaruga Beach
Prainha Beach showing general coastal views, a coastal town and a sandy beach

Búzios

Frequently asked questions

Is José Gonçalves worth visiting?
Whether you plan to experience the local charm and cultural attractions or sample regional foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are many things to do in José Gonçalves.
How do I spend a day in José Gonçalves?
Once you've visited major attractions like Tucuns Beach, spend the rest of your day discovering the shopping and dining scene in José Gonçalves.
What is the top tourist attraction in José Gonçalves?
Spend a day exploring Tucuns Beach and experience why it's ranked as the top tourist attraction near José Gonçalves.
Is three days enough to stay in José Gonçalves?
With a three-day escape to José Gonçalves, you'll easily be able to enjoy the area's many great sights, such as Tucuns Beach and Porto da Barra Búzios.
Is José Gonçalves a walkable neighborhood?
Getting around José Gonçalves on foot is a breeze, with unmissable sights like Tucuns Beach and Porto da Barra Búzios just a short walk away. Popular neighborhoods like Praia de Geribá and Manguinhos are also located only 5 kilometers and 5 kilometers from the center of José Gonçalves, so you can easily extend your adventure — no driving needed.
What are some activities to do in José Gonçalves with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with cool activities sets the tone for a great escape. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in José Gonçalves with kids.

What to do in José Gonçalves for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in José Gonçalves for adults.
Are there free things to do in José Gonçalves?
Near José Gonçalves, Tucuns Beach is an excellent spot for anyone looking to experience the area without spending a cent. Also, wander around parks and other neighborhoods, and don't hesitate to ask a local tour guide for their tips. It's a simple way to find the top free things to do in José Gonçalves.