Lagoa de Araruama Monte Alto
Monte Alto: Arraial do Cabo's serene escape, offering tranquil lagoon waters, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful alternative to crowded beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Lagoa de Araruama Monte Alto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Monte Alto: Arraial do Cabo's serene escape, offering tranquil lagoon waters, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful alternative to crowded beaches.
"A place of peace, where I am always well-attended, between the sea and the lagoon."
🎯 Escape the crowds
Monte Alto offers a paradise without the usual Arraial do Cabo crowds.
📸 'Instagrammable' spots
Quiosque da Andrea is perfect for photos with its unique setup.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arubinha (Ponta do Alcaíra)
Between Figueira and Monte Alto neighborhoods
A stunning natural paradise on the Araruama Lagoon, often compared to Maragogi's 'Caminho de Moisés'.
Quiosque da Andrea
Araruama Lagoon, Monte Alto
An 'Instagrammable' spot offering delicious drinks and snacks with a beautiful lagoon view.
Lagoon-side Kiosks
Monte Alto
Enjoy tranquil waters and great food at well-structured kiosks lining the serene Araruama Lagoon.
Monte Alto Sunset
Monte Alto
Witness surreal sunset views over the lagoon, a perfect end to a peaceful day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds in Arraial do Cabo
Embrace the Lagoon Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Escape the crowds
Monte Alto offers a paradise without the usual Arraial do Cabo crowds.
📸 'Instagrammable' spots
Quiosque da Andrea is perfect for photos with its unique setup.
🚗 Easy access to Arubinha
Located between Figueira and Monte Alto, Arubinha is a must-visit.
🏡 Accommodation deals
Look for promotions in June and August for great stays.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Escape the crowds
Monte Alto offers a paradise without the usual Arraial do Cabo crowds.
📸 'Instagrammable' spots
Quiosque da Andrea is perfect for photos with its unique setup.
🚗 Easy access to Arubinha
Located between Figueira and Monte Alto, Arubinha is a must-visit.
🏡 Accommodation deals
Look for promotions in June and August for great stays.
☀️ Lagoon vs. Sea
Choose the calm lagoon for families or the sea for more active waters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Monte Alto for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful natural scenery, and the choice between calm lagoon waters and more active sea beaches. The well-structured kiosks offer great food and service, making it an ideal spot for families and those seeking a peaceful escape from the usual Arraial do Cabo crowds. Some mention the beauty of the sunsets and the unique landscape of Arubinha.
"Fica entre o mar e a lagoa. Quem gosta de águas tranquilas tem a lagoa, onde prefiro, comida nos bons quiosques que servem na beira da lagoa. Do outro lado a praia, para quem gosta de águas mais agitadas, também com bons quiosques à beira da praia. Com pousadas e casas para alugar. Um lugar de paz, onde sempre sou bem atendido."
Dalmir Schiavini
"Excelente lugar para passar com a família, é bem tranquilo e as belezas naturais são sensacionais."
Sebastian Cardoso
"Praia incrível, mar lindo.
Recomendo a casa VeraJani incrível que fica direto no mar !"
Nine M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Monte Alto is a district of Arraial do Cabo. You can reach it by car or local transport. Many visitors find it a peaceful alternative to the busier central areas.
While specific details on public transport routes can vary, local buses or taxis are generally available to connect Monte Alto with the main parts of Arraial do Cabo.
Renting a car offers flexibility, but many attractions like Arubinha and the lagoon-side kiosks are accessible by foot or short taxi rides once you're in the area.
Arubinha is located between the Figueira and Monte Alto neighborhoods, right on the shores of the Araruama Lagoon. Look for signs or ask locals for the best access points.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to arrive early or consider accommodations that offer parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, access to Monte Alto, its beaches, and Arubinha is free. Some kiosks might have minimum consumption policies, but entry itself is usually open.
Kiosk hours can vary, but most are open daily, especially during tourist seasons. It's best to check with specific establishments for their exact operating times.
No, the natural beauty of the lagoon and beaches in Monte Alto is accessible to everyone without charge.
Yes, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially for promotions in June and August or during holidays. +1
Some accommodations, like the Chalé Viver Bem, require a minimum of two nights' stay. Always check with the property when booking. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Arubinha offers breathtaking scenery, often compared to the Maldives. Quiosque da Andrea is also very 'Instagrammable'. Don't miss the stunning sunsets over the lagoon. 
Drone photography is popular in Arraial do Cabo, and areas like Arubinha provide spectacular aerial views. Be sure to check local regulations regarding drone usage.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light. Arubinha's unique landscape is also stunning during the day.
Quiosque da Andrea is noted for its 'Instagrammable' ambiance, making it a great spot for creative shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lagoon and beach landscapes. A polarizing filter can enhance the vibrant blues of the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find delicious snacks and drinks at the kiosks, particularly along the lagoon. Seafood is a popular choice, fresh from the local waters.
The well-structured kiosks offer a variety of food options, serving guests right by the water. They are known for good food and service.
Fresh seafood dishes and local drinks are highly recommended. Quiosque da Andrea is known for its appealing drinks and snacks.
Yes, many of the kiosks in Monte Alto offer service right at the water's edge, allowing you to enjoy your meal with a view.
While not explicitly mentioned, many kiosks offer simple snacks and appetizers that might cater to vegetarian preferences. It's best to inquire directly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The well-equipped kiosks along the lagoon offer convenient dining options, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful, allowing families to relax and create lasting memories. Arubinha, with its gentle waters, is also a fantastic spot for younger children to explore.
+1😌 Peace Seekers
You can enjoy the natural beauty, from the tranquil lagoon to the stunning sunsets, without the usual tourist throngs. It's the perfect place to unwind, read a book, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings.
📸 Photographers & Influencers
+1The 'Instagrammable' Quiosque da Andrea provides a stylish backdrop for photos, and the sunsets over the lagoon are legendary. Capture the serene lagoon waters, the vibrant kiosks, and the breathtaking natural scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Discovering Arubinha (Ponta do Alcaíra)
+2The area is perfect for wading, relaxing, and capturing stunning photographs. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for families and those seeking a peaceful experience away from the more turbulent ocean waves. Many visitors describe it as a true paradise, offering a serene and beautiful natural setting.
+1Access to Arubinha is generally straightforward, with several points of entry along the lagoon's edge. While it's gaining popularity, it still retains a sense of tranquility compared to more established tourist spots, making it a worthwhile detour for anyone visiting Arraial do Cabo.
The Charm of Monte Alto's Lagoon-Side Kiosks
Visitors can enjoy their meals and beverages with their feet practically in the water, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the lagoon. The 'Quiosque da Andrea' is frequently highlighted for its 'Instagrammable' setup, making it a popular choice for those looking to capture memorable moments.
These kiosks provide a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families seeking calm waters or for anyone wanting to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Monte Alto. They are a testament to the area's commitment to providing comfortable and enjoyable experiences for visitors.
Experiencing Monte Alto's Tranquil Vibe
The area is characterized by its unique geography, situated between the sea and the Araruama Lagoon. This duality allows visitors to choose between the calm, serene waters of the lagoon, perfect for families and relaxation, or the more dynamic ocean beaches.
Beyond the natural beauty, Monte Alto provides a peaceful environment with opportunities for leisure, such as enjoying the spectacular sunsets over the lagoon. It's a place where visitors can truly connect with nature and enjoy a slower pace of life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit