🌴 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
| Area | Best For | Price Range | Vibe | Beach Access | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enseada | Families, first-timers | $$ | Comfortable | Excellent | All ages |
| Pitangueiras | Shopping, nightlife | $$ | Urban & lively | Good | Couples, groups |
| Tombo | Surf, young travelers | $ | Laid-back | Excellent | Surfers, solo travelers |
| Pernambuco | Tranquility, luxury | $$$ | Upscale & calm | Excellent | Couples, 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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