Ubatuba: How to Spend 3 Amazing Days on the Coast of São Paulo
Plan the perfect trip from São Paulo! Discover our ultimate 3-day Ubatuba itinerary, featuring budget-friendly stays, top beaches, and delicious local eats.
SÃO PAULONATURE
If you are dreaming of a gorgeous escape from the concrete jungle of São Paulo, you have found your perfect match. Ubatuba is a breathtaking coastal paradise where the lush Atlantic Rainforest meets crystal-clear waters. It is an absolute must-visit, and I am so thrilled to help you plan this!
Here is everything you need to know to put together a fabulous and completely accessible 3-day getaway.
Who is this trip for?
Honestly, Ubatuba is for absolutely everyone! Whether you are traveling solo, planning a romantic weekend, or gathering a fun group of friends, this destination has a special charm. It is particularly wonderful if you love nature, beach-hopping, and a laid-back, welcoming vibe.
When to get there?
Ubatuba is affectionately known as "Ubachuva" because it can get quite rainy, especially in the summer.
The Sweet Spot: Plan your trip for April, May, September, or October. The weather is lovely, the sun is shining, and you get to avoid the massive summer crowds.
Keep in Mind: December through February is peak season. It gets super busy, and late-afternoon summer storms are very common.
How to get there?
Getting there from São Paulo is a breeze!
By Car: This is the most practical way to explore the coast. The drive takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours. You will take the Ayrton Senna/Carvalho Pinto highways, then head down the stunning (but very winding!) Oswaldo Cruz highway (SP-125).
By Bus: If you prefer to sit back and relax, just catch a bus from the Tietê Bus Terminal in São Paulo. It takes around 5 hours and drops you right in the center of Ubatuba.
Where to stay: Cheap vs. Expensive
Ubatuba is huge, so choosing the right base makes all the difference for your budget.
Cheap (Budget-Friendly): Look for sweet little pousadas and hostels in Centro or Itaguá. It is super walkable, you do not necessarily need a car, and you are right next to all the affordable bars, shops, and the Tamar Project.
Expensive (Luxury & Comfort): If you want to treat yourself, head to Praia de Itamambuca or Praia do Lázaro. Here, you will find gorgeous eco-resorts and boutique hotels tucked directly into the rainforest, offering spa days and private beach access.
What to do in these 3 days?
Here is a beautiful, balanced itinerary to soak it all in:
Day 1: The Serene South Start your trip with the incredibly calm, mirror-like waters of Praia do Lázaro. It is perfect for a peaceful morning swim. Later, take a short stroll over to Praia Domingas Dias—a tiny, shaded beach that feels like a private paradise. Wrap up your day watching the sunset along the lively Itaguá waterfront.
Day 2: Turtles and Tropical Islands Book a morning schooner or boat tour to Ilha Anchieta. It is a stunning state park with rich history and crystal-clear snorkeling spots. When you return in the afternoon, visit the Tamar Project in Itaguá to see their beautiful sea turtle conservation work. It is such a heartwarming experience!
Day 3: The Wild North Head up the northern coast to Praia de Itamambuca, famous for its vibrant surf culture and the gorgeous river that meets the ocean. Before you head back to São Paulo, make a stop at the Prumirim Waterfall (Cachoeira do Prumirim) for a refreshing dip in fresh running water.
How much does it cost?
(Estimates are per person for the 3 days, excluding your travel from SP)
Budget / Backpacker: R$ 500 – R$ 700 (Staying in a hostel, walking or using public transport, and grabbing snacks at the beach kiosks).
Mid-Range / Comfort: R$ 1,200 – R$ 1,800 (A lovely private room, enjoying a nice boat tour, and sitting down for nice dinners).
Luxury / Premium: R$ 3,000+ (Staying at a top-tier eco-resort, private boat charters, and high-end dining).
Where to eat?
Ubatuba has a fabulous food scene!
For a beautiful dinner: Try Quintal da Villa in the center for an incredible seafood risotto in a super cozy setting.
For local flavor: Jardim Restaurante in Itaguá offers traditional fish baked on a clay tile—pair it with a fresh caipirinha!
For budget bites: Ki-Beirute is a local favorite for delicious, affordable Middle Eastern snacks. Alternatively, grabbing an açaí bowl and a fresh pastel at any beachside kiosk is an absolute must.
Travel With Luiz - 2026
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