Why Visit Búzios?
Located 110 miles (180km) northeast of Rio de Janeiro, Búzios transformed from a quiet fishing village into Brazil's most sophisticated beach destination. Often called the "Saint-Tropez of Brazil," it offers 23 pristine beaches, excellent restaurants, and vibrant nightlife—all in a compact, walkable town.
Getting There
By Car: 2.5-3 hours via BR-101 and RJ-106. Best option for flexibility.
By Bus: 1001 buses depart from Rio's Novo Rio terminal every hour (R$80-100, ~3 hours).
By Transfer: Private transfers cost $150-250 for up to 4 people.
Best Hotels in Búzios
We've personally visited and vetted these accommodations. All prices are for February 2025 weekend rates.
🏨 Pousada Bucaneiro
Best for: Couples seeking luxury
Oceanfront location on João Fernandes Beach. Stunning infinity pool, excellent breakfast, and impeccable service. Walking distance to restaurants and nightlife. All rooms have sea views.
🏡 Pousada dos Gravatos
Best for: Mid-range comfort
Charming pousada on João Fernandes Beach with pool, excellent breakfast, and friendly staff. Rooms are spacious and clean. Perfect balance of location and value.
🏖️ Pousada Brisa dos Búzios
Best for: Budget travelers
Clean, simple rooms 5 minutes from Rua das Pedras. Great value with pool, good breakfast, and helpful owners. Perfect if you plan to spend days at the beach.
Best Beaches
🏝️ João Fernandes Beach
The most popular beach with calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Many beach clubs offer chair/umbrella rentals (R$50-80). Best for: families and snorkeling.
🌊 Geribá Beach
Búzios' largest beach with consistent waves and beach bars playing music. More energetic vibe. Best for: surfers and younger crowds who want beach parties.
💎 Azeda & Azedinha Beaches
Hidden gems reached by a short trail. Tiny, picturesque coves with excellent snorkeling. Arrive early (before 11am) as they fill up quickly. Best for: couples and photographers.
Where to Eat
Salt Restaurant
Upscale seafood on the waterfront. Fresh oysters, grilled fish, and sunset views. Expect R$200-300 per person with wine. Reserve ahead for sunset tables.
Chez Michou Crêperie
Búzios institution serving creative crêpes for 40+ years. More affordable (R$80-120/person) but equally charming. Try their signature lobster crêpe.
Rocka Beach Lounge
Beachfront restaurant with feet-in-sand seating. Perfect for lunch. Amazing ceviche and cold beer. R$100-150 per person.
Nightlife
Rua das Pedras
The heart of Búzios nightlife. This pedestrian street comes alive after 8pm with live music, bars, and people-watching. Start here for drinks before hitting clubs.
Pátio Havana
Open-air courtyard with multiple bars and live music. Great for dancing salsa and meeting other travelers. No cover charge, pay per drink.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Beach Hopping
- Morning: Check into hotel, breakfast
- 10am: João Fernandes Beach (swim & snorkel)
- 1pm: Lunch at beachfront restaurant
- 3pm: Walk to Azeda/Azedinha beaches
- 6pm: Return to hotel, shower & rest
- 8pm: Dinner on Rua das Pedras
- 10pm: Drinks and live music
Day 2: Boat Tour & Sunset
- 9am: Book boat tour (R$100-150)
- 10am-4pm: Island hopping, snorkeling, beach stops
- 5pm: Relax at hotel pool
- 6:30pm: Sunset at Geribá Beach
- 8pm: Farewell dinner at Salt
Budget Breakdown
Weekend for 2 People (Fri-Sun):
- Hotel (2 nights, mid-range): $240
- Transportation (bus): $40
- Meals (6 meals × 2 people): $300
- Activities (boat tour, beach clubs): $150
- Drinks & nightlife: $100
- Total: ~$830 ($415 per person)
Essential Tips
- Cash: Bring reais. Many beach vendors don't accept cards
- Sunscreen: The sun is intense. Reapply every 2 hours
- Reservations: Book hotels and restaurants in advance for weekends
- Language: English is limited. Download Google Translate
- Weather: Best months are May-September (drier, cooler)
Ready to Book Your Búzios Escape?
Don't wait—Búzios fills up fast on weekends. Secure your accommodation now and start planning your perfect getaway!