Barra do Una Praia e Rio
Barra do Una: Where the Rio Una meets the sea, creating a unique sandbar paradise with calm waters and lush surroundings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Barra do Una Praia e Rio
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Barra do Una: Where the Rio Una meets the sea, creating a unique sandbar paradise with calm waters and lush surroundings.
"A paradise hidden in São Paulo, where the river meets the sea!"
🚗 Parking Fees
Expect to pay around R$30 for all-day parking, potentially more in high season.
💧 Leave No Trace
Help keep this paradise pristine by taking all your trash with you.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sandbar
Where Rio Una meets the ocean
A unique sand peninsula offering both river and sea bathing. Perfect for a relaxing dip or water sports.
Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddle
Rio Una
Glide through calm river waters, enjoying the lush surroundings and unique perspective of the coastline.
Sunset Views
Beachfront
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly magical end to the day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the River Meets Sea
Plan for Simple Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Expect to pay around R$30 for all-day parking, potentially more in high season.
💧 Leave No Trace
Help keep this paradise pristine by taking all your trash with you.
🛶 Water Sports Galore
Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the river and sea.
📱 Spotty Wi-Fi
Embrace the disconnect; Wi-Fi is only available in select spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Expect to pay around R$30 for all-day parking, potentially more in high season.
💧 Leave No Trace
Help keep this paradise pristine by taking all your trash with you.
🛶 Water Sports Galore
Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the river and sea.
📱 Spotty Wi-Fi
Embrace the disconnect; Wi-Fi is only available in select spots.
☀️ Sun Protection
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Barra do Una for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the unique sandbar where the river meets the sea. The calm waters are a major draw for families and water sports enthusiasts. However, some find the amenities basic and Wi-Fi connectivity limited.
"Simply fantastic!"
Miguel GB
"Top"
Fabio Santos
"Show"
EUCLELIA LUIZA MOÇO
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barra do Una is located about 18km south of the São Sebastião city center. You can drive there, and parking is available for a fee.
Information on direct public transport to Barra do Una is limited. Driving is the most common and convenient method.
Driving is recommended for flexibility. The journey from São Sebastião is scenic, taking you along the coast.
The roads leading to Barra do Una are generally well-maintained, but it's always good to check local traffic conditions before you go.
Yes, Barra do Una is accessible from other coastal towns in the region, though it's closest to São Sebastião.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for the beach itself. However, parking is charged, typically around R$30 per day.
Barra do Una is a natural beach and is generally accessible throughout the day and evening.
No advance booking is typically required for beach access. However, if you plan to rent accommodations or specific water sports equipment, it's wise to book ahead, especially during peak season.
The main guideline is to respect the natural environment. Visitors are encouraged to take their trash with them and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Parking fees are usually around R$30 for the entire day, but this can increase during the high season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in both river and sea water, go kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, enjoy the unique sandbar, and watch the sunset.
Yes, the calm river waters and shallow sandbar make it ideal for families with young children.
Barra do Una features a unique ecosystem where a river meets the sea, creating a beautiful sand peninsula surrounded by lush hills.
Facilities are generally simple. While some basic amenities might be available, it's best to come prepared.
Absolutely! The defining feature of Barra do Una is the ability to swim in both the fresh waters of Rio Una and the saltwater of the ocean.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are simple, with some local establishments offering food. It's advisable to check availability and offerings beforehand.
While there are places to eat, specific details about restaurants with ocean views are scarce. The focus is more on the natural setting.
Expect a more natural setting with limited vendors. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea.
Local, simple fare is most likely. It's a good opportunity to try regional flavors.
Yes, a picnic is a great option. The natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying your own food.
📸 📸 Photography
The sandbar where the river meets the sea offers unique perspectives. The sunsets are also incredibly photogenic.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide stunning golden hour light and dramatic sunsets.
The natural formation of the sandbar itself is the main attraction. The meeting point of fresh and saltwater is a key visual element.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While amenities are simple, the natural setting provides ample entertainment. Consider packing extra snacks and drinks, as food options are basic. The lack of strong Wi-Fi can actually be a blessing, encouraging more family interaction and outdoor play.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Eco-Tourists
Embrace the opportunity to disconnect and reconnect with nature. The simple infrastructure means less human impact, allowing the natural beauty to shine. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles by taking all your waste with you to help preserve this delicate environment.
🧘♀️ Travelers Seeking Tranquility
The calm waters and natural surroundings are perfect for relaxation. Whether you're reading a book on the sandbar or gently paddling on the river, the pace of life here is slow and soothing. The limited Wi-Fi also contributes to a digital detox, allowing for deeper relaxation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geography of Barra do Una
The landscape is further enhanced by the surrounding lush green hills, providing a stunning natural backdrop to the coastline. This blend of river, sea, and verdant scenery makes Barra do Una a visually captivating destination. The area is also noted for its diverse ecosystems, contributing to its natural charm.
This natural formation also lends itself to various water activities. The calm river is ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, allowing visitors to explore the serene waters and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The unique setting provides a peaceful escape, making it a hidden paradise for those seeking natural beauty and relaxation.
Activities and Experiences
For those seeking a bit more adventure, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are highly recommended. The Rio Una provides a calm and scenic waterway for these activities, allowing you to paddle through the lush landscape and appreciate the coastline from a different perspective. Some visitors even enjoy paddling in traditional Hawaiian canoes, adding a unique cultural element to the experience.
Beyond water sports, Barra do Una is a fantastic spot for relaxation and enjoying nature. The beach offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing, reading, or simply soaking in the views. As the day winds down, the sunsets over the ocean are a spectacular sight, painting the sky with vibrant colors and providing a memorable end to your visit.
Practicalities and Amenities
For visitors arriving by car, parking is available but comes with a fee, typically around R$30 per day, with the expectation that this price may increase during the high season. This is a common practice at popular Brazilian beaches and is a small price to pay for access to such a unique location.
A crucial aspect of visiting Barra do Una, and indeed any natural attraction, is environmental responsibility. Visitors are consistently reminded to "Lixo no lixo" (Trash in the trash), emphasizing the importance of taking all litter with you to help preserve the pristine condition of the beach and its surrounding ecosystems. This collective effort ensures that Barra do Una remains a beautiful and unspoiled destination for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit