Tender Port: Ships anchor in the bay and tender to the main pier at Praia dos Ossos or Praia da Armação.
From the Logbook
In 1964, Brigitte Bardot arrived in this sleepy fishing village with her Brazilian boyfriend, and nothing was ever quite the same. The cobblestoned Rua das Pedras—now lined with boutiques and cocktail bars—still commemorates her with a bronze statue on the waterfront, frozen mid-stroll in eternal glamour. Búzios became Brazil's St. Tropez, and tourists have been chasing that golden-age allure ever since.
I rented a taxi boat and spent the day beach-hopping: Praia Azeda for the turquoise swimming, Praia Brava for the surfers, João Fernandes for the beachside caipirinhas. By late afternoon I'd lost count of beaches and islands, my skin sun-kissed and salt-crusted, and I understood why Bardot had stayed two months.
The Cruise Port
Cruise ships anchor in the bay near Armação dos Búzios, the main town on the peninsula. Tenders ferry passengers to shore, landing either at Praia dos Ossos or Praia da Armação—both within walking distance of the main attractions.
The town is compact and walkable. Beach hopping requires taxi boats or local taxis, but the central area—Rua das Pedras, waterfront, and nearby beaches—can be explored on foot.
The 23 Beaches
Búzios has 23 beaches, each with distinct character:
Near Town (Walking Distance)
- Praia da Armação: Main beach by tender landing. Calm water, beach bars.
- Praia dos Ossos: Small, scenic, colonial church backdrop.
- Praia Azeda & Azedinha: Crystal clear water, 15-minute walk or water taxi.
East Coast (Rougher Water)
- Praia Brava: Surfing beach, strong waves.
- Praia de Geribá: Buzios's longest beach, surfer scene.
West Coast (Calmer Water)
- João Fernandes: Most popular, good snorkeling, beach clubs.
- Praia Tartaruga: Calm water, sea turtle habitat.
- Praia Ferradura: Horseshoe-shaped bay, family-friendly.
Getting Around
Taxi boats (escunas) offer beach-hopping tours (~R$50-100/person for half-day). Land taxis also available. Most beaches lack facilities—bring cash for vendors and beach chairs.
Búzios Town
Rua das Pedras
The pedestrianized main street lined with boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. High-end Brazilian fashion, jewelry, and art. Lively at night (though cruise visitors see daytime only).
Brigitte Bardot Statue
The bronze tribute to the actress who put Búzios on the map. Popular photo spot on the waterfront boardwalk.
Orla Bardot
Waterfront promenade with sculptures, viewpoints, and cafés. Perfect for a sunset stroll if your ship allows.
Practical Information
Money
Brazilian Real (BRL). Cards accepted at shops/restaurants; cash for beach vendors and taxis. ATMs in town.
Weather
Tropical. Summer (Dec-Mar) hot and humid, 30°C+. Winter (Jun-Sep) mild. Beaches enjoyable year-round.
Language
Portuguese. English limited—learn basic phrases or use translation apps.
Safety
Búzios is safer than Rio but use normal precautions. Don't leave valuables on beaches. Watch belongings in crowds.
Port Map
FAQs
Which beach is best for cruise visitors?
João Fernandes combines accessibility (taxi boat), beauty, and facilities. For walking distance, Praia Azeda is stunning. Avoid far beaches if time is limited.
Is Búzios better than Rio beaches?
Different vibes. Búzios is more intimate, calmer water, upscale resort atmosphere. Rio has iconic urban beaches and dramatic scenery. Both worthwhile.
What's a caipirinha?
Brazil's national cocktail: cachaça (sugarcane liquor), lime, sugar. Order one beachside. Essential Brazilian experience.
Author's Note: Beach conditions vary. Check with locals about swimming safety, especially on east coast beaches with stronger currents.