Pegadas de Dinossáurios Praia Grande
Step back in time at Praia Grande, where ancient dinosaur footprints are etched into dramatic cliffs, accessible via a thrilling staircase.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer footprint views
Pegadas de Dinossáurios Praia Grande
Best Time
Clearer footprint views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Praia Grande, where ancient dinosaur footprints are etched into dramatic cliffs, accessible via a thrilling staircase.
"Astounding and worth the effort when you arrive, the dinosaur prints are a must-see."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The stairs can be steep and uneven. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is essential for safety.
⚠️ Check for Rockfalls
Warning signs about falling rocks are present. Assess conditions before descending the stairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Dinosaur Footprints
Cliffside beach
Marvel at the ancient imprints of dinosaurs, a truly awe-inspiring glimpse into prehistoric life.
Cliffside Staircase
Path to the beach
Descend the thrilling, steep staircase for a unique perspective and access to the beach.
Surfing Beach
Base of the stairs
Enjoy the vibrant surfing scene at the beach below, with opportunities for lessons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Footprints
Best Viewing Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The stairs can be steep and uneven. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is essential for safety.
⚠️ Check for Rockfalls
Warning signs about falling rocks are present. Assess conditions before descending the stairs.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb can be strenuous, especially in the heat. Bring plenty of water.
📸 Platform for Photos
A halfway platform on the stairs offers a great spot for photos of the footprints.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The stairs can be steep and uneven. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is essential for safety.
⚠️ Check for Rockfalls
Warning signs about falling rocks are present. Assess conditions before descending the stairs.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb can be strenuous, especially in the heat. Bring plenty of water.
📸 Platform for Photos
A halfway platform on the stairs offers a great spot for photos of the footprints.
🍽️ Dine Nearby
Excellent restaurants are located along the surf, near the staircase.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the ancient dinosaur footprints, finding them awe-inspiring and a unique historical glimpse. The dramatic cliffside staircase and the vibrant surfing beach below add to the overall experience, though some caution is advised regarding the stairs' condition and potential rockfalls.
"Closed/prohibited to access on August 27, 2025. Fallen rocks have broken parts of the staircase. Cool to view from the beach at the bottom nonetheless!"
Karen Wilber
"I've been out to Praia Grande several times before, but thought the footprints were inaccessible. Turns out you need to go back around the road and then down a stone staircase on the cliffside. Not as easy walk in hot weather, but astounding and worth the effort when you arrive.
Locally government should fix the break in the stairs, though."
Kev Harrison
"We drove to the upper cliff trailhead and hiked down to the dinosaur prints. It was pretty awesome to see. The stairs were fine. They were not difficult. There is a platform half way down you can climb on to take a pic. At the bottom of the stairs is a famous surfing beach with opportunities to take a surf class. Be sure to stop at one of the many excellent restaurants along the surf. We chose Bar do Fundo because it was the closest to the staircase by the dinosaur prints."
travlinfam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To see the Pegadas de Dinossauros Praia Grande, you'll typically drive to an upper cliff trailhead and hike down a stone staircase. Some visitors also access it from the beach below.
Parking is generally available in the vicinity of the cliffside trails leading to the footprints.
You can climb a steep staircase from the beach up to the cliffside where the footprints are located.
Praia Grande is accessible by public transport, with bus services connecting it to nearby cities in the Baixada Santista region. 
The descent via the stairs can take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on your pace and any stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the beach and the dinosaur footprints themselves is generally free. There are no specific entry tickets required for this natural attraction.
The footprints are a natural site and are accessible whenever the beach is open, typically from sunrise to sunset.
No, the beach at Praia Grande is free to access for everyone.
While the site is naturally accessible, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Be mindful of any posted warnings regarding falling rocks and the condition of the stairs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see distinct imprints of dinosaur feet embedded in the layered rocks on the cliffside. There are no information plates at the site itself, so spotting them is part of the adventure.
The stairs are described as steep but manageable by many visitors. It's important to be cautious due to potential rockfalls.
There are warning signs about falling rocks, so visitors climb at their own risk. Assess the conditions before descending.
Yes, you can take photos. The platform halfway down the stairs is a popular spot for capturing images.
The area is a famous surfing beach, offering surf classes. You can also enjoy dining at the many restaurants along the coast.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are many excellent restaurants located along the surf, close to the staircase leading to the beach.
You'll find a variety of seafood and local Brazilian cuisine at the restaurants in Praia Grande.
Dining options range from casual to more upscale, offering choices for different budgets.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks to the beach is permitted, but it's always good practice to clean up after yourself.
You'll likely find various snack bars and cafes along the beachfront promenade.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. Midday sun can create harsh shadows.
The platform halfway down the cliffside stairs provides a good vantage point for photographing the footprints.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the footprints and the surrounding landscape.
The dramatic cliffside, the surfing beach, and the ocean views offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during low tide for the best view of the footprints. The beach at the bottom offers space for children to play, and the nearby surfing schools might offer introductory activities suitable for older children. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as the climb can be tiring.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
The surfing beach at the base provides further opportunities for adventure, whether you're a seasoned surfer or looking to try a new sport. The dramatic coastal scenery also makes for rewarding exploration and photography.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to avoid harsh shadows and capture the best colors. The surfing beach and the ocean vistas also present ample opportunities for stunning coastal photography. Don't miss the chance to photograph the dynamic action of surfers if they are present.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Dinosaur Footprints
These footprints are a testament to the diverse fauna that once roamed the region. While specific dinosaur species are not identified on-site, their presence indicates a significant ecosystem millions of years ago. The geological formations themselves are also of interest, showcasing the sedimentary layers that preserved these ancient traces. For those interested in paleontology or simply the wonders of the natural world, these footprints are a must-see.
It's important to note that the footprints are best viewed during low tide, as higher water levels can obscure them. The visual impact is also enhanced by good lighting conditions, making early mornings or late afternoons ideal for a visit. Remember to tread carefully and respect the natural environment to preserve this site for future generations.
Navigating the Cliffside Access
Despite the potential challenges, many find the stairs manageable and well worth the effort. There's a notable platform halfway down the staircase, which serves as an excellent spot for taking photographs and offers a brief respite. The climb up from the beach can be strenuous, especially in warmer weather, so wearing appropriate footwear and staying hydrated are highly recommended.
For those who prefer a less strenuous approach, some visitors mention driving to an upper cliff trailhead and hiking down. Regardless of the chosen route, the reward is reaching the beach below, where the footprints are visible on the cliff face. The area at the bottom is also a popular surfing spot, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
The Surfing Culture of Praia Grande
The beach itself is a lively hub, especially during pleasant weather. You'll find a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the sun, sand, and surf. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and energetic, with the sound of waves and the calls of surfers creating a dynamic soundscape. It's a great place to simply relax and watch the action, even if you're not participating in the water sports.
+1Adjacent to the beach, a strip of restaurants and bars caters to beachgoers and surfers alike. These establishments offer a variety of dining options, from casual snacks to full meals, often featuring fresh seafood and local specialties. It's the perfect place to refuel after a day of exploring or to enjoy a sunset meal with ocean views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit