Things to do in Buzios Brazil: Top Attractions and Activities

When I visited Búzios, I was enchanted by the number of incredible things to do and explore. There are so many things to do in Búzios Brazil.

Once a quaint fishing village, Búzios now boasts over 20 stunning beaches, each offering a unique charm and a variety of water activities.​

Located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, this amazing destination offers stunning beaches and a vibrant center that made my trip full of unforgettable moments. Búzios blends indigenous, colonial, and contemporary influences in its rich history.

If you are looking for more on all Búzios has to offer, read our Buzios travel guide. Now back to it!

As I walked around Búzios, I enjoyed the unique combination of stores, restaurants, and tourist attractions that the city offers. Spending time by the sea was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the trip, as each beach provided a special and unforgettable experience.

Whether exploring the charming streets or relaxing on the sandy beaches, Búzios is a destination that conquers and that you certainly won’t want to miss.

this …

Indigenous Origins

Before the arrival of European settlers, it was the Indians who inhabited the region. They lived by fishing and gathering fruit, calling the area “Pau” or “Ipatica”, due to the abundance of native trees.

Colonization and European influence

In the 16th century, Portuguese colonizers explored the region, initially attracted by the extraction of Brazilwood. Later, they turned the area into a strategic point for whale hunting. The fat from the whales was used to make oil for lighting, while the frames, structures installed for processing, gave rise to the city’s name.

Refuge for Pirates and Slaves

During the colonial period, European pirates often sought refuge in Búzios, attracted by its strategic location and the riches of Brazilian waters. At the same time, escaped slaves established quilombos in the region, reinforcing the historical character of local resistance.

Transformation Into a Tourist Destination

In the 1960s, the famous French actress Brigitte Bardot visited Búzios and was enchanted by its natural beauty and simplicity. Her presence drew international attention to the city, which quickly entered the world tourism map. In her honor, the Bardot waterfront received a statue of the actress and Rua das Pedras, the main shopping and leisure center, was named after her.

Búzios Today

Today, Búzios stands out as one of Brazil’s most renowned tourist towns. More than 20 beaches with crystal-clear waters, such as Geribá, Turtle Beach, and Ferradura, attract visitors all year round.

The town combines rustic charm with sophistication, offering cozy inns, haute cuisine restaurants, and outdoor activities such as diving, boat trips, and hiking. Búzios retains its natural and cultural charm and continues to attract Brazilian and foreign tourists looking for an unforgettable destination.

Now, I want to share with you my experience in Búzios and present the best things to do in this enchanting destination.

Things to Do in Búzios Brazil

Tartaruga Beach

During my trip to Búzios, I spent a quiet day at the charming Tartaruga Beach. The name of this beach comes from the sea turtles that often appear in the area, adding a special touch to its unique atmosphere. With calm, crystal-clear waters, the place is ideal for both a refreshing dip and for simply relaxing and floating.

What enchanted me most about Tartaruga Beach was its tranquil atmosphere. As it is less busy than other beaches in the region, it offers a great place to relax. I took the opportunity to rent a kayak and paddle around the cove, admiring the beautiful scenery and occasionally spotting the sea turtles that make the place even more special.

Geribá Beach 

One of the highlights of Búzios is the vibrant Geribá Beach. With its long stretch of sand and waves perfect for surfing, it is a favorite with locals and tourists alike.

During my visit, I could see surfers braving the waves and groups playing beach volleyball, which created an atmosphere full of energy and fun.

What really sets Geriba Beach apart is its variety of activities Whether you love water sports or simply prefer to relax on the sand, the beach offers something for everyone.

I took the opportunity to take a surf lesson, which was a fun experience and an excellent way to connect with the local culture. The surf schools along the beach were extremely welcoming and helpful, making it easy for beginners like me to get started.

Ferradurinha Beach

Ferradurinha Beach quickly won a special place in my heart. Nestled in a protected bay, it enchants with its stunning turquoise waters and impressive rock formations. Because it is smaller and more of a quiet place, it is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the busier beaches.

The clear, calm waters of Ferradurinha Beach are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. I spent an unforgettable afternoon exploring the underwater world, observing colorful fish, and enjoying the serenity of the bay.

I also took advantage of the kayak rental option, a fun and different way to explore the surroundings and admire the natural beauty of the region.

What enchanted me most about Ferradurinha Beach was its tranquil atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax and connect with the natural beauty of Búzios. After swimming in the calm waters, I sat on the rocks to contemplate the best views.

Orla Bardot Boardwalk

Walking along the Orla Bardot promenade was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip. This charming promenade connects Praia da Armação to the famous Rua das Pedras, offering incredible views of the ocean.

Named after the iconic Brigitte Bardot, who fell in love with Búzios, the place displays her statue and other fascinating sculptures, which make the walk even more special.

I loved sitting on the benches along the Orla Bardot promenade, simply enjoying the views and the peaceful atmosphere. The evenings were magical, with beautiful sunsets.

As well as being an unmissable walk, the promenade is conveniently located close to several stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants, allowing for a delicious break or a shopping spree after your walk. If you visit Búzios, be sure to include the Orla Bardot promenade in your itinerary, as it is an unforgettable experience.

Things to Do in Búzios Brazil

Statue of Brigitte Bardot

One of the highlights of my trip to Búzios was visiting the Brigitte Bardot Statue. Located along the Orla Bardot promenade, the statue is a tribute to the actress who put Búzios on the map as an international tourist destination.

Created by the talented artist Christina Motta, the sculpture is strategically positioned facing the sea, adding a touch of history to the enchanting setting.

Being in Búzios and contemplating this statue was a special experience. More than a work of art, it symbolizes Brigitte Bardot’s connection with the city she admired so much. It’s the ideal place to take a photo and, at the same time, enjoy the incredible view of the ocean.

Rua das Pedras

Rua das Pedras, known as the beating heart of Búzios, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. This iconic street offers a vibrant mix of stores, restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Full of options, from luxury boutiques to local artisan stalls, it’s the ideal place to explore. I took the opportunity to buy unique souvenirs and handmade crafts, adding a special touch to my experience.

Rua das Pedras impresses with its diversity. At night, the street transforms into a vibrant center, with bars and nightclubs full of live music, creating an excellent place.

Things to Do in Búzios Brazil

Ecological Trails

Exploring the ecological trails in Búzios is an incredible experience for anyone who likes to connect with nature as much as I do.

These trails offer impressive panoramic views, contact with a rich diversity of flora and fauna, as well as a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of the region’s natural environments.

The trail took me through beautiful forests, along the coast, offering breathtaking views along the way. The highlight of the hike was reaching the top of a hill, from where you have a panoramic view of the city’s entire coastline. Truly breathtaking scenery. The trail was well-marked and accessible, making it ideal for walkers.

Boat Tour

Exploring Búzios by boat is an incredible way to appreciate the region’s natural beauty from a completely different perspective. There are several tour options available, each providing unique experiences along Búzios’ stunning coastline and its most beautiful beaches.

I went on a boat trip that covered the Búzios peninsula, with stops at various beaches and incredible snorkeling spots. The itinerary included visits to the most popular beaches such as Azeda and Azedinha, as well as more secluded spots, accessible only by boat.

The clear blue waters were ideal for exploring the underwater world, where we had the chance to observe a wide variety of marine life, making the experience even more memorable.

The boat was very comfortable, with plenty of space to sit and shaded areas to relax during the tour. Our guide was excellent, sharing fascinating tidbits about the history and ecology of the region.

During the stops, we had time to swim and enjoy quiet moments on the beaches, making the tour even more special.

Things to Do in Búzios Brazil

Diving

Diving in Búzios is a fantastic experience for discovering the underwater world and observing the region’s rich marine life up close. With its crystal clear waters and varied ecosystems, Búzios stands out as a destination for divers, regardless of their level of experience.

One of the highlights of my experience was diving near João Fernandes Beach, where the underwater visibility was impressive. During the dive, I was able to admire an incredible variety of colorful fish, and coral reefs and even spot some sea turtles, making the moment unforgettable.

The diving instructors were highly professional, ensuring that everyone felt safe and at ease during the experience. They provided all the necessary equipment and offered a detailed briefing before the dive, covering all the essential instructions and precautions.

For those just starting out, there are also introductory dive options, perfect for beginners who want to explore the ocean for the first time.

Azeda and Azedinha beaches

Azeda and Azedinha beaches are little gems that offer a more intimate and peaceful beach experience. With their crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty, these neighboring beaches enchant everyone with their paradisiacal scenery and relaxing atmosphere.

Stand-up paddle boarding at Azeda and Azedinha is also an unmissable activity. To get to Azeda, you need to follow a trail or opt for a jet ski. When you arrive, you’ll find options for renting chairs, snorkeling and diving equipment, as well as “itinerant bars” offering drinks, food, and even an açaí stand.

Crossing Azeda Beach, you arrive at Azedinha, an even smaller beach, but just as charming and ideal for families with children. Its crystal-clear waters and no waves create the perfect conditions for Stand Up Paddle and diving, allowing you to explore the surroundings in a peaceful and fun way.

Things to Do in Búzios Brazil

Monument to the Three Fishermen

Visiting the Monument to the Three Fishermen was one of the most memorable moments of my trip. Created by artist Christina Motta in 2000, this impressive statue is strategically positioned in the water, giving it a dynamic and incredibly realistic appearance.

It’s fascinating to observe how the monument seems to come alive with the movement of the tides, giving the feeling that the fishermen are pulling in their nets.

Enjoying the Monument to the Three Fishermen while sitting next to it was a unique experience. Watching the waves breaking around the sculpture created a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on Búzios’ rich history and culture.

Located on the charming Armação Beach, this monument adds a special touch to the scenery and is undoubtedly a must-see for anyone exploring Búzios.

Things to Do in Búzios Brazil

Bonus: Great Food

As for the cuisine, seafood, which is always fresh, dominates the menus in Búzios. Fish, prawns, squid, and lobster appear in traditional dishes such as moquecas, bobós and grilled dishes.

Moqueca, for example, combines fish or shrimp with coconut milk, palm oil, tomatoes, and peppers, served with rice and farofa. Simple dishes like grilled fish highlight the freshness of local ingredients, while delicacies like acarajé and tapioca bring a touch of Northeastern cuisine.

Desserts and drinks are also highlights in Búzios. Açaí bowls with various toppings offer an energizing refreshment, while caipirinhas are made with tropical fruits such as passion fruit and cashew conquer palates.

To sweeten the experience even more, sweets such as milk pudding, quindim, and cocadas appear on the menus.

The gastronomy in Búzios goes beyond the food, it complements the charm of the city, providing unforgettable moments for both lovers of fine dining and those just looking to enjoy a meal in a paradisiacal setting.

Finally, visiting Búzios was an unforgettable experience, full of varied activities and breathtaking landscapes. From the paradisiacal beaches and lively city center to the tranquil natural hideaways and vibrant nightlife, the city has something to offer for all tastes.

I loved exploring the unique attractions, sampling the delicious local cuisine, and relaxing in settings of pure tranquility. Every corner of Búzios revealed a special charm, making my trip truly memorable. If you’re planning a getaway, Búzios is a destination that should not be missing from your list.