João Fernandes Beach Búzios - a sandy beach with waves coming in from the ocean
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João Fernandes Beach Búzios

4.6
·22k reviews·, Brazil

Búzios' gem for sea turtle encounters and clear snorkeling, with unique red sand and vibrant marine life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better turtle sightings

CrowdLow
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João Fernandes Beach Búzios - a sandy beach with waves coming in from the ocean

João Fernandes Beach Búzios

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better turtle sightings

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Búzios' gem for sea turtle encounters and clear snorkeling, with unique red sand and vibrant marine life.

4.6
(22k reviews)

"Almost certain to encounter sea turtles. My favorite beach in Búzios!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips

Go early for best turtle sightings! Observe respectfully.

🚗 Skip the Parking Hassle

Uber/taxi recommended to avoid parking issues and persistent sellers.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea Turtle Spotting

Sea Turtle Spotting

Shallow waters

Your best chance to swim with majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat. An unforgettable wildlife encounter!

Snorkeling Adventures

Snorkeling Adventures

Clear waters

Explore vibrant underwater life and discover colorful fish among the rocks. Bring your own gear or rent it nearby.

Rocky Shore Exploration

Rocky Shore Exploration

Beach edges

Discover fascinating rock formations, shells, and sand dollars. Perfect for curious explorers of all ages.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Turtle Encounters

João Fernandes Beach is renowned for its resident sea turtles! Go early to maximize your chances of spotting these gentle creatures while snorkeling or swimming. Remember to observe them respectfully from a distance.

Navigate the Crowds & Vendors

This popular spot can get busy, especially with vendors. Consider arriving by Uber or taxi to avoid parking hassles. Be prepared for persistent sellers; a polite but firm 'no' usually suffices.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better turtle sightings
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Need help- recommendations for things to see/do in Búzios!

🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips

Go early for best turtle sightings! Observe respectfully. Reddit

🚗 Skip the Parking Hassle

Uber/taxi recommended to avoid parking issues and persistent sellers. Reddit

reddit.com

Need help- recommendations for things to see/do in Búzios!

reddit.com

Something to do in Buzios?

🤿 Bring Your Snorkel Gear

Maximize underwater exploration; rentals are available but bringing your own is convenient. Reddit

🐚 Explore Rock Pools

Discover shells and sand dollars at the water's edge. Fun for kids! Reddit

reddit.com

Travelling to Buzios next week, would love tips/advice!

Tips

from all over the internet

🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips

Go early for best turtle sightings! Observe respectfully. Reddit

🚗 Skip the Parking Hassle

Uber/taxi recommended to avoid parking issues and persistent sellers. Reddit

🤿 Bring Your Snorkel Gear

Maximize underwater exploration; rentals are available but bringing your own is convenient. Reddit

🐚 Explore Rock Pools

Discover shells and sand dollars at the water's edge. Fun for kids! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(22k reviews)

Reviews Summary

João Fernandes Beach is celebrated for its stunning clear waters and the incredible opportunity to swim with sea turtles, making it a top snorkeling spot. Visitors appreciate the unique red sand and the chance to find shells. However, the beach can become very crowded, and the persistent vendors and parking challenges are frequently mentioned drawbacks.

"A lovely beach, great for finding rocks and shells and sand dollars. The water is clear and there are lots of little rock pools to see crabs"

Katharine Lopes

"My favorite beach in Búzios. Beautiful waters, great snorkeling, almost certain to encounter sea turtles."

Gabriel N. L.

"When we arrived we had to put the buggy in a parking space although we were supposed to be allowed to park on the side of the street leading to the entrance of the beach.
We were terribly bothered by the people trying to "sell" us a spot in their area with sunchairs. When we said "no" they started to call us names. We went to the public area and when we left they were bothering us again. No nice place..."

mariska van schaik

What People Like

Sea turtle encounters
Clear snorkeling waters
Unique red sand

What People Dislike

Crowded conditions
Persistent vendors
Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach João Fernandes Beach is by Uber or taxi, as parking can be challenging and crowded. Many visitors also opt for local buses that run frequently along the coast. If you're driving, be prepared for limited parking spots and potential fees. Reddit

Parking is available but can be very limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Some reviews mention being bothered by people trying to sell parking spots. Reddit

Depending on your accommodation's location in Búzios, it might be walkable, but it's a bit of a trek from the town center. Using ride-sharing services or local transport is generally more convenient. Reddit

For exploring multiple beaches like João Fernandes, using Uber, taxis, or local buses is highly recommended. This avoids the stress of finding parking at each location. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, João Fernandes Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its natural beauty freely. Reddit

As a public beach, João Fernandes is accessible at all hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and to enjoy the scenery and activities. Reddit

No advance booking is necessary for beach access. However, if you plan to rent chairs and umbrellas from vendors, you can usually arrange that upon arrival. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's always good practice to respect the environment, avoid littering, and be mindful of other visitors. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

João Fernandes Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling (especially to see sea turtles!), sunbathing, and exploring the rocky areas for shells and sand dollars. Reddit

Absolutely! The water is clear, and it's famous for sea turtle sightings, making it a prime spot for snorkeling. Reddit

Restroom facilities are not readily available directly on the beach, which is a common point of feedback from visitors. Reddit

The sand at João Fernandes Beach is noted for its reddish hue, which is quite distinctive and beautiful. Reddit

Yes, it can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early is recommended to find a good spot. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are vendors who walk around selling snacks, drinks, and clothing. Some reviews mention food and drink vendors being present. Reddit

You can purchase snacks and drinks from vendors who circulate the beach. For full meals, you might need to head to nearby establishments or other beaches. Reddit

Vendors usually offer typical beach snacks like chips, ice cream, cold drinks, and sometimes local treats. Reddit

While the beach itself has vendors, there are restaurants and kiosks located nearby or on adjacent beaches that offer more substantial dining options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The clear turquoise waters, the red sand, and especially the sea turtles make for fantastic photo opportunities. The rocky outcrops also offer scenic views. Reddit

Yes, sea turtles are often seen close to shore, making it relatively easy to capture photos or videos of them while snorkeling or swimming. Reddit

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the natural beauty. Midday sun can be harsh but still works for vibrant shots of the water. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances before flying a drone to ensure compliance. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

João Fernandes Beach offers a fantastic experience for families. The calm, clear waters are generally safe for swimming, and the opportunity to spot sea turtles is a huge hit with children. Exploring the rock pools for shells and small marine life is another engaging activity. Reddit+1

To make the day smoother, consider arriving early to secure a good spot away from the busiest vendor areas. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is advisable, as facilities can be limited. Opting for Uber or taxi will save you the stress of parking, allowing more time for family fun on the beach.

🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts

This beach is a must-visit for anyone passionate about marine life. The high probability of encountering sea turtles while snorkeling is unparalleled in the Búzios region. Reddit Remember to practice responsible wildlife viewing: maintain distance, avoid feeding, and never touch the animals. Early morning visits offer the best conditions for both sightings and photography. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers

Beyond swimming and snorkeling, João Fernandes Beach offers opportunities for exploration. Investigate the unique red sand and the rocky outcrops that fringe the beach. These areas are perfect for discovering shells and sand dollars. Reddit While not a primary hiking destination, the surrounding coastal paths can offer scenic views if you're looking for a short walk. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Sea Turtle Encounters

João Fernandes Beach is a premier destination for encountering sea turtles in Búzios. These gentle giants are frequently spotted in the clear, shallow waters, making it a dream spot for snorkelers and swimmers. Visitors often report seeing them grazing on seagrass or swimming gracefully near the shore. It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals, and maintaining a respectful distance is paramount to ensure their well-being and continued presence. Avoid touching them or disturbing their natural behavior. Reddit

To maximize your chances of a magical encounter, aim to visit in the early morning when the water is calmest and the turtles are often more active. While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed, but the thrill of the possibility adds to the allure of this beautiful beach. Many visitors consider this the highlight of their trip to Búzios, offering a unique connection with marine life. Reddit

Navigating the Beach Vibe: Vendors and Parking

João Fernandes Beach is a lively spot, and like many popular Brazilian beaches, it comes with a vibrant vendor presence. You'll find people offering everything from snacks and drinks to souvenirs and beach gear. While this can add to the atmosphere, some visitors find the persistent sales pitches overwhelming. A polite but firm 'no, thank you' is usually effective. Reddit

Parking is another common point of discussion. The beach is popular, and dedicated parking is scarce. Many visitors recommend using ride-sharing services like Uber or taxis to avoid the stress of finding a spot and potential conflicts with unofficial parking attendants. If you do drive, be prepared for limited options and potentially paying for a space. Reddit

Exploring the Underwater World: Snorkeling and Rock Pools

The clear waters of João Fernandes Beach make it an excellent location for snorkeling. Beyond the famous sea turtles, you can discover a variety of colorful fish darting among the rocks and coral formations. Bringing your own snorkel gear is recommended for comfort and hygiene, though rentals are often available. The underwater visibility is generally good, offering a rewarding experience for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Reddit

For those who prefer exploring on foot, the beach's edges are dotted with interesting rock pools. These natural formations are fascinating to investigate, especially during low tide. You can often find small crabs, interesting shells, and unique sand dollars. It’s a fun activity for children and adults alike, offering a different perspective on the beach's ecosystem. Reddit