Arraial do Cabo

Arraial do Cabo is a small fishing town on Rio de Janeiro's coast that boasts some of the most strikingly clear, turquoise water in all of Brazil. Known as the "Brazilian Caribbean" for its impossibly blue waters and white sand beaches, this unpretentious town offers a dramatic contrast to the glitzy resorts of nearby Búzios.

The town's extraordinary water clarity is caused by the upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich Antarctic currents that bring deep ocean water to the surface. This same phenomenon supports exceptional marine life, making Arraial one of the best diving destinations in Brazil. The Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia - twin beaches accessed by a steep staircase - offer jaw-dropping views of Caribbean-blue water that seem impossible for the Brazilian coast.

Boat trips around the cape stop at beaches only accessible by sea, including the famous Praia do Forno, a sheltered cove of white sand and crystal water surrounded by green hillsides. The town itself retains the character of a working fishing village, with fresh seafood restaurants, a lively fish market, and none of the pretension of its neighbors.

The best time to visit Arraial do Cabo is during the shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) when skies are clear and crowds are smaller. Summer (December-February) is peak season with crowds. The cold upwelling makes waters cooler than expected year-round.