10 Hidden Beaches in Brazil Perfect for a Quiet Getaway

If you’re planning a trip to Brazil, you’re likely picturing samba, vibrant cities, and – of course – breathtaking beaches. While popular spots like Copacabana and Ipanema are stunning, they’re often packed with tourists.

But Brazil is home to countless hidden beaches that offer a quieter, more secluded experience without sacrificing the postcard-perfect scenery.

Many Brazilian beaches offer serene shores, turquoise waters, and all the beauty of Brazil without the crowds. Grab your sunscreen and get ready to explore these tranquil escapes!

Here’s a list of my favourite 10 hidden Brazilian beaches

1. Praia do Espelho – Bahia

Why You’ll Love It: Known as one of Brazil’s most stunning beaches, Praia do Espelho (Mirror Beach) offers calm waters, cliffs, and palm-fringed shores. When the tide is low, the water forms natural pools that reflect the sky, creating a magical mirror effect.

How to Get There: Located in the Bahia region, Praia do Espelho is a two-hour drive south from Porto Seguro. The last stretch is an unpaved road, so be prepared for a bit of an adventure getting there.

Insider Tip: Visit during the week to have more of the beach to yourself, and bring cash, as many local vendors don’t accept cards.

2. Lagoinha do Leste – Florianópolis

Why You’ll Love It: This beach is an untouched gem nestled between hills and a lagoon, perfect for adventurous souls who enjoy hiking. Reaching Lagoinha do Leste requires a scenic, one-hour trek through lush forest, rewarding visitors with pristine sands and crystal-clear water.

How to Get There: Take a bus or drive to Pantano do Sul, and from there, you can hike or take a boat to the beach.

Insider Tip: Pack your own snacks and drinks, as this beach is isolated with no facilities or vendors.

3. Praia de Antunes – Maragogi, Alagoas

Why You’ll Love It: Praia de Antunes offers white sands and crystal-clear waters often compared to the Caribbean. Located in Maragogi, this beach is ideal for snorkeling, sunbathing, and enjoying Brazil’s natural beauty without the crowds.

How to Get There: Drive from Maceió or Recife, then take a short walk to this secluded paradise.

Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the beach when it’s quiet and serene.

4. Pontal do Atalaia – Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro

Why You’ll Love It: Known as the “Brazilian Caribbean,” Pontal do Atalaia is famous for its turquoise waters, natural pools, and tranquil vibes. Unlike the beaches of Rio, this spot is usually quiet, especially if you visit during the week.

How to Get There: Take a bus or drive from Rio de Janeiro to Arraial do Cabo, then follow the signs to Pontal do Atalaia.

Insider Tip: Go in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the water, and don’t miss the “Escadaria de Atalaia” staircase for a beautiful view as you descend to the beach.

5. Taipus de Fora – Barra Grande, Bahia

Why You’ll Love It: Taipus de Fora boasts long stretches of beach and vibrant coral reefs, making it a great spot for snorkeling. The natural pools that form at low tide provide an up-close view of Brazil’s diverse marine life.

How to Get There: Take a boat or drive to the Maraú Peninsula from Barra Grande.

Insider Tip: Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the reefs Bahia has to offer, and plan your visit around low tide for the best experience.

6. Praia do Bonete – Ilhabela, São Paulo

Why You’ll Love It: Accessible only by boat or a challenging three-hour hike, Praia do Bonete is one of the most secluded beaches on Ilhabela island. Surrounded by rainforest and waterfalls, it’s ideal for travellers seeking a true nature retreat.

How to Get There: Take a ferry from São Sebastião to Ilhabela, then hike or hire a local boat to reach Bonete.

Insider Tip: Stay overnight in one of the nearby pousadas (inns) and enjoy the beach in the early morning, when it’s completely peaceful.

7. Praia da Pipa – Rio Grande do Norte

Why You’ll Love It: Pipa’s coastline is known for dramatic cliffs, soft sand, and secluded stretches that are less touristy than other beaches. Praia da Pipa itself is lively, but you’ll find hidden spots nearby like Praia do Amor and Baía dos Golfinhos.

How to Get There: From Natal, drive or take a bus south to Pipa.

Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for dolphins – they often swim close to shore, especially at Baía dos Golfinhos.

8. Praia de Cumbuco – Ceará

Why You’ll Love It: Cumbuco is a hidden gem north of Fortaleza, famous for its sand dunes, lagoons, and tranquil beaches. It’s also a top spot for kitesurfing due to steady winds.

How to Get There: Drive or take a bus from Fortaleza, which is about an hour away.

Insider Tip: Take a dune buggy ride through the area for a fun and unique way to explore the landscape.

9. Praia de Icaraí de Amontada – Ceará

Why You’ll Love It: Known simply as “Icaraizinho,” this beach is a quieter alternative to the famous Jericoacoara. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful beach escape with stunning sunsets and small-town vibes.

How to Get There: From Fortaleza, take a three-hour drive northwest to reach Icaraí de Amontada.

Insider Tip: Enjoy an early morning walk on the beach, as Icaraizinho is known for its peaceful atmosphere and lack of crowds.

10. Praia do Rosa – Santa Catarina

Why You’ll Love It: Praia do Rosa is known for its crescent-shaped beach, lush greenery, and excellent surfing conditions. The area has a relaxed, bohemian vibe and offers a mix of quiet and adventure, depending on the season.

How to Get There: Fly into Florianópolis and drive about 1.5 hours south to Praia do Rosa.

Insider Tip: Visit between July and November to see migrating whales – the bay’s unique shape makes it a perfect viewing spot.

Essential Tips for Visiting Hidden Brazilian Beaches

While exploring Brazil’s lesser-known beaches can be a rewarding experience, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your adventure:

1. Check the Tide: Some of Brazil’s hidden beaches have natural pools that appear only at low tide, so research tide times in advance.
2. Bring Cash: Many remote beaches lack ATMs or vendors who accept credit cards, so have some cash on hand.
3. Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, water, and a small beach umbrella. Some of these beaches have no facilities, so it’s good to be prepared.
4. Protect the Environment: Brazil’s untouched beaches are beautiful because they’re natural. Take any trash with you, and respect wildlife and marine life.

Final Thoughts about Brazilian Beaches...

Brazil’s hidden beaches offer a unique experience for those willing to go off the beaten path.

From isolated shores like Praia do Bonete to the natural pools of Taipus de Fora, these beaches provide an escape to nature and relaxation away from the crowds.

Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple seeking seclusion, or simply an explorer at heart, Brazil’s secret shores promise a quiet getaway with a touch of paradise.

So pack your swimsuit, slip on your flip-flops, and get ready to discover a Brazil that few tourists get to see.