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Where to Stay in Guarujá – São Paulo, Brazil

Where to Stay in Guarujá – São Paulo, Brazil

🌴 Why Stay in Guarujá

Guarujá is a beach town just over 1 hour from São Paulo, known for its stunning coastline, accessible location, and laid-back atmosphere. With over 20 beaches, great infrastructure, and family-friendly vibes, it’s a perfect weekend escape or a longer tropical stay.

From lively urban beachfronts to quiet residential areas with a local feel, choosing the right area to stay in Guarujá makes a big difference. This guide breaks down the best neighborhoods and beaches, hotel tips, pros and cons, and travel insights to help you plan.


🏖️ Best Areas to Stay in Guarujá

1. Praia da Enseada – Best for First-Time Visitors & Families

Enseada is the largest and most popular beach in Guarujá. It offers wide sands, calm waters in most parts, and is great for swimming, walking, and relaxing. You’ll find plenty of hotels, restaurants, kiosks, and activities.

Pros:

  • Great infrastructure (restaurants, pharmacies, markets)

  • Safe and family-friendly

  • Lots of accommodation options

Cons:

  • Can get crowded on weekends and holidays

  • Some areas have street noise

Hotel Suggestions:

  • Ferraretto Hotel – Classic beachside comfort with breakfast

  • Hotel Ilhas da Grécia – Pool, modern design, 3 min from the beach


2. Praia de Pitangueiras – Best for Shopping & Central Access

Located near the city center, Pitangueiras combines beach life with urban convenience. It’s ideal for travelers who want to be near shops, malls (like Shopping La Plage), and services, while still enjoying the beach.

Pros:

  • Central location, walkable to everything

  • Close to restaurants and nightlife

  • Beach is good for surf and bodyboarding

Cons:

  • Noisy, especially in high season

  • Limited parking

Hotel Suggestions:

  • Hotel Costa Balena – Elegant and peaceful, close to shops

  • Strand Hotel – Right on the beachfront with sea views


3. Praia do Tombo – Best for Surfers and Young Travelers

Praia do Tombo has Blue Flag certification, known for its clean environment and excellent water quality. It's a hotspot for surfers and has a more youthful, casual vibe.

Pros:

  • Excellent for surfing

  • Clean, eco-certified beach

  • More local and authentic

Cons:

  • Fewer hotel choices

  • Waves can be strong for families with kids

Hotel Suggestions:

  • Canto das Laranjeiras Tombo – Boutique guesthouse with great reviews

  • Hotel Rio – Simple, good value, near beach access


4. Pernambuco – Best for Peace, Nature & Luxury

Located farther from downtown, Praia de Pernambuco is quieter, more upscale, and ideal for travelers seeking tranquility. It’s also home to the famous Hotel Jequitimar.

Pros:

  • Calm, relaxing environment

  • Good for couples or retreats

  • Exclusive resorts and beach homes

Cons:

  • Far from the city center

  • Need car or transport for most things

Hotel Suggestions:

  • Sofitel Jequitimar Guarujá – 5-star luxury resort with full amenities

  • Pousada Villa Di Rimini – Elegant and peaceful, great for couples


🚗 Bonus: Transportation Tips

  • Guarujá is accessible by car or bus from São Paulo (1h30 average)

  • Inside the city, you can get around by Uber, local vans, or walking (in Praia da Enseada and Pitangueiras)

  • For Pernambuco and Tombo, renting a car gives more freedom


🧳 Booking Tips

  • ✅ Book early for weekends, holidays, and summer (Dec–Mar)

  • ✅ Check if your hotel has free parking

  • ✅ Choose beach access if you plan to spend most time by the sea

  • ✅ Consider hotels with breakfast included (many local options are delicious!)


📊 Quick Comparison Table

AreaBest ForPrice RangeVibeBeach AccessRecommended For
EnseadaFamilies, first-timers$$ComfortableExcellentAll ages
PitangueirasShopping, nightlife$$Urban & livelyGoodCouples, groups
TomboSurf, young travelers$Laid-backExcellentSurfers, solo travelers
PernambucoTranquility, luxury$$$Upscale & calmExcellentCouples, upscale travelers

✨ Final Thoughts

Guarujá offers something for every kind of traveler — whether you’re chasing waves, shopping in town, or relaxing in a luxury hotel by the sea. Choosing the right beach to stay at will shape your experience. So match your vibe to the area, pack your sunscreen, and let Guarujá welcome you with sun, salt, and soul!

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