
Ruínas da Lagoinha Engenho
Explore the atmospheric ruins of a 19th-century sugar mill and remnants of Brazil's first glass factory, nestled in Ubatuba's lush Mata Atlântica.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Ruínas da Lagoinha Engenho
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the atmospheric ruins of a 19th-century sugar mill and remnants of Brazil's first glass factory, nestled in Ubatuba's lush Mata Atlântica.
"A very nice and chill place, ideal for short periods of time, where you can feel the atmosphere and enjoy the landscape."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the historical ruins and surrounding nature.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The ruins offer a unique backdrop for photography, blending history with nature. Capture the atmospheric charm.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Sugar Mill Ruins
Fazenda Bom Retiro
Explore the remnants of a 19th-century sugar mill, a tangible link to Ubatuba's colonial past. Feel the history and capture stunning photos.

Pillars of the Glass Factory
Entrance to a condominium
Discover the intriguing pillars believed to be from Brazil's first glass factory, adding another layer of historical mystery.

Natural Swimming Pool
500 meters past the ruins
Take a refreshing dip in a natural pool fed by a waterfall's river. A perfect spot to cool off after exploring the ruins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the historical ruins and surrounding nature.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The ruins offer a unique backdrop for photography, blending history with nature. Capture the atmospheric charm.
💧 Natural Pool Refreshment
Don't miss the natural swimming pool about 500m past the ruins for a refreshing dip.
⏳ Short & Sweet Visit
Ideal for short visits, the site is compact but rich in history and scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the historical ruins and surrounding nature.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The ruins offer a unique backdrop for photography, blending history with nature. Capture the atmospheric charm.
💧 Natural Pool Refreshment
Don't miss the natural swimming pool about 500m past the ruins for a refreshing dip.
⏳ Short & Sweet Visit
Ideal for short visits, the site is compact but rich in history and scenery.
🗺️ Easy Access
Located off the Rio-Santos highway, making it a convenient stop on your Ubatuba journey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Ruínas da Lagoinha to be a peaceful and atmospheric historical site, offering a journey back in time. It's praised for its photogenic qualities and the opportunity to connect with Ubatuba's colonial past. Some note that while the ruins are compact, the nearby natural pool is a delightful addition for refreshment.
"It is a very nice and peaceful place,back in time; is possible to feel the atmosphere,take beautiful photos and enjoy the wonderful landscape."
autumn hazel
"There is a natural swimming pool 500meters after the ruins where you can refresh your energy. I have tried to find the waterfall but after walking/climbing too much me and friends, just give up and walked back. So I do not advice to go on this walk, maximum until the natural swimming pools with water from the waterfall's river."
Pedro Henrique Carecho Mendes
"Top"
Cesar Pergentino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ruins are located on the southern coast of Ubatuba, easily accessible via the Rio-Santos highway (BR-101). They are situated near Praia da Lagoinha, approximately 23.9 km from Ubatuba's center.
Yes, parking is generally available near the ruins, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While specific bus routes might vary, Ubatuba has a bus system that connects different beaches. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for routes heading towards Praia da Lagoinha.
Yes, the ruins are quite accessible from the Rio-Santos highway and are located within a short distance from the road, often near condominium entrances.
Many visitors combine a visit to the ruins with exploring Praia da Lagoinha and potentially the start of the Trilha das 7 Praias (7 Beaches Trail).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, typically there is no admission fee to visit the Ruínas da Lagoinha. It's an open historical site.
As an outdoor historical site, the ruins are generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times.
Visitors can explore the Ruínas da Lagoinha without any entrance fee, making it a free historical attraction.
While official guided tours might not be consistently available, local information boards may provide historical context. Exploring independently or with a guide book is common.
The ruins were officially recognized for their historical significance and were tombados (listed/protected) in the 1980s by Condephaat.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most atmospheric conditions for photography, casting beautiful shadows and highlighting the textures of the ruins. Weekdays also mean fewer people in your shots.
You can capture a mix of historical architecture, natural landscapes, and the surrounding Mata Atlântica. The contrast between the old stone and lush greenery is striking.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check local Ubatuba ordinances or inquire with local authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
The historical significance, unique architecture, and integration with nature create a visually compelling scene. The remnants of the sugar mill and glass factory offer distinct photographic opportunities.
Yes, the natural swimming pool and its surroundings also offer beautiful photographic opportunities, especially with the clear water and natural setting.
🎫 🌿 Nature & Activities
Nearby attractions include Praia da Lagoinha, the start of the Trilha das 7 Praias, and a natural swimming pool about 500 meters past the ruins, fed by a waterfall's river.
Yes, the natural swimming pool is a popular spot for visitors to refresh themselves. It's fed by a waterfall's river, offering a cool and invigorating experience.
While there's a river feeding the natural pool, direct access to specific waterfalls might require more strenuous hiking. Some visitors have reported difficulty finding them.
The Trilha das 7 Praias (7 Beaches Trail) is a famous hiking route in Ubatuba that starts near Praia da Lagoinha, offering access to several beautiful beaches.
Yes, the ruins are located near the beginning of the Trilha das 7 Praias, making it a good starting point for hikers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
🏖️ Beach Lovers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ubatuba's Colonial Past
Beyond the sugar mill, the area also features intriguing pillars believed to be part of what was potentially Brazil's first glass factory. These pillars are often found near the entrance of a condominium along the Rio-Santos highway. The ruins are nestled within the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Forest), creating a unique juxtaposition of historical architecture and vibrant natural surroundings. This blend of history and nature makes the site a fascinating stop for visitors interested in Ubatuba's rich heritage.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and transporting them back in time. The site is relatively compact, making it ideal for shorter visits, but its historical depth and scenic beauty offer ample opportunity for reflection and exploration. The ruins serve as a reminder of the economic activities that shaped Ubatuba centuries ago, from agriculture to early industrial attempts.
Exploring the Natural Wonders Near the Ruins
For the more adventurous, the Ruínas da Lagoinha is situated near the beginning of the Trilha das 7 Praias (7 Beaches Trail). This popular hiking route allows visitors to discover a series of beautiful beaches along Ubatuba's coast. However, some travelers have noted that finding specific waterfalls beyond the natural pool can be challenging and may involve significant hiking or climbing, with some giving up due to the effort involved. It's recommended to stick to the more accessible natural pool unless you are well-prepared for a more demanding trek.
The proximity to Praia da Lagoinha also means visitors can easily combine a historical visit with beach time. The beach itself is described as a quiet corner of Ubatuba, offering a tranquil atmosphere. The area around the ruins and the nearby beach is rich in biodiversity, characteristic of the Mata Atlântica, offering opportunities for nature observation.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit