Discover the Coastal Charms of Santos and Guarujá on a Private Full-Day Tour from São Paulo

If you’re looking to escape the urban buzz of São Paulo for a day, this private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Brazil’s stunning coast. For approximately eight hours, you’ll visit Santos, home to Latin America’s busiest port, and Guarujá, famed for its beaches and relaxed vibe. The cost of about $470 per group makes this a flexible option, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or small family, since it’s a private experience.

What we particularly love about this tour is the chance to see both the bustling port with its container ships—a powerful reminder of Brazil’s trade—and the beautiful, sandy beaches of Guarujá, which could easily rival those of more famous coastal destinations. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant really caps off the trip nicely.

A potential consideration is that this tour involves a fair amount of driving—roughly 80 kilometers from São Paulo—so if you’re sensitive to long bus or car rides, it’s worth planning for some comfort. Also, the entrance fees for museums are not included, so budget for those if you plan to visit the Coffee Museum or other sites inside Santos.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, culture, and seaside relaxation. It’s especially ideal if you’re curious about Brazil’s coffee trade roots, want to see lively port activity firsthand, or simply enjoy beautiful beaches and seafood. It’s perfect for those who value private, guided experiences tailored to their interests.

Key Points

Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines history, port views, beaches, and local cuisine all in one day.
Private Experience: Personalized attention with a bilingual guide and vehicle.
Cultural Insights: Learn about Brazil’s coffee trade history and its influence on local customs.
Breathtaking Views: Enjoy scenic lookout points and stunning beach vistas.
Authentic Seafood: Savor fresh, regional seafood at a carefully chosen restaurant.
Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included, with options for flexible cancellation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santos and Guarujá Private Tour

Traveling from São Paulo to the coast doesn’t have to involve a train ticket or a crowded bus—you can have a quiet, personalized experience that hits all the highlights with ease. When we consider a full-day trip like this, the main questions often revolve around what makes it worth the price and how well it balances variety with depth. This tour, priced at $470 for a group, delivers a package of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights that suit travelers craving a taste of Brazil’s seaside life.

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Sao Paulo

Starting from São Paulo: Comfort & Convenience

Your day begins with hotel pick-up, which guarantees a smooth start without the hassle of navigating public transportation or finding meeting points. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the roughly one-hour drive through the lush Atlantic Forest quite comfortable, especially on warm days. This drive itself is part of the experience—watching the landscape shift from urban sprawl to forested hills as you approach the coast.

Santos: The Port and the Coffee Heritage

Arriving in Santos, you immediately get a sense of Brazil’s economic heartbeat. The harbor is massive, with cargo ships, container cranes, and bustling activity. It’s fascinating to see this gateway for Brazilian exports up close, especially if you’re interested in trade or shipping. Your guide will help you understand the significance of the port’s history, especially its role in coffee exports.

Next, a visit to the Coffee Museum inside the historic Coffee Stock Exchange building is a highlight. This museum offers insight into how coffee shaped the city and Brazil itself. Even if you’re not a coffee aficionado, the architecture of the old exchange and the stories behind the trade will intrigue you. However, note that museum entrance fees are not included, so you might want to budget a few extra reais.

The Heart of Santos: Culture, History, and Local Life

The tour likely includes a walk through the historic city center, where colonial architecture and lively plazas tell stories of Santos’ past. The guide will fill you in on notable figures and how immigrants arrived in the late 19th century to work on coffee plantations, shaping the city’s diverse cultural fabric.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ferry to Guarujá: A Scenic Ride & Island Charm

From Santos, you’ll hop on a ferry to Santo Amaro Island in Guarujá. This short ride offers lovely views of the coastline and the port, giving you a different perspective on the city. Guarujá has become popular since the 1970s, thanks to its beautiful beaches and upscale real estate. The island’s laid-back vibe and large selection of beaches make it an ideal spot for some downtime.

While in Sao Paulo, here are other experiences we've covered

Guarujá’s Beaches & Lookout Points

Once on the island, your guide might take you to a lookout point—a perfect spot for panoramic views and a few photos to remember your trip. Guarujá boasts some of the best beaches in São Paulo state, known for their wading waters and soft sands. Whether you’re interested in swimming, relaxing on the sand, or just soaking in the scenery, this part of the tour balances natural beauty with leisure.

Seafood Lunch: A Feast by the Sea

A key highlight is a delicious seafood meal at a local restaurant. You’ll enjoy dishes prepared with fresh catch, often served with typical Brazilian sides and sauces. Based on reviews, this restaurant is notable for its quality and flavor, making it a satisfying end to your coastal adventure.

Return to São Paulo: Relaxed and Satisfied

After lunch, you’ll head back to São Paulo, completing your roughly 8-hour journey. The return trip is an opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s sights and stories, with your guide available to answer any questions or share additional insights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The personalized nature of this private tour is a major plus. The guides are praised for their knowledge and patience, with one reviewer mentioning Renato’s engaging storytelling that made the history come alive. Another traveler appreciated Luis’ helpfulness and tips, which enhanced their experience.

The combination of port activity, historic sites, picturesque beaches, and fresh seafood offers a well-rounded day that feels both educational and relaxing. Many travelers note the stunning views and the authentic feel of the coastal towns, making it clear that this isn’t a cookie-cutter experience but a curated day tailored to your interests.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

The main consideration is travel time—about 80 km each way, which means some parts of the day are spent in transit. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more leisurely mornings, this is something to keep in mind. Plus, since museum entrance fees aren’t included, you’ll need to carry some extra cash if visiting the Coffee Museum or other sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history buffs interested in Brazil’s coffee trade roots, beach lovers eager for scenic sand and sea, or foodies wanting to sample regional seafood. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples, thanks to the private arrangement, and travelers with a flexible schedule who enjoy a full, varied day.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided storytelling, enjoys beautiful vistas, or simply wants a convenient way to explore coastal Brazil, this tour will meet your needs.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour from São Paulo to Santos and Guarujá strikes a fine balance between history, nature, and cuisine. It offers a chance to see Latin America’s largest port, enjoy breathtaking beaches, and taste fresh seafood, all with a knowledgeable guide who keeps the experience engaging. The fact that it’s private means your group can customize the day slightly or take your time at each stop.

While the trip involves some driving, the comfort and convenience, combined with the diversity of sights, make it a worthwhile option for those wanting a taste of Brazil’s coastal life without the hassle of planning multiple outings. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who want to go beyond the typical city tour and experience a more authentic slice of local culture and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from São Paulo to Santos?
The drive takes about one hour, traveling through lush Atlantic Forest landscapes.

Are hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off within São Paulo’s expanded city center, making the trip hassle-free.

What should I bring for the day?
Remember to pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and your camera to capture the scenic views.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is private, and children up to 10 years old require special seats, so you should inform the provider in advance if traveling with kids.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, but a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant is part of the experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This Santos and Guarujá tour offers a well-paced, authentic glimpse of Brazil’s coast with a personal touch. It’s an adventure for those who love history, stunning vistas, and good food—delivered in a way that makes travel feel effortless.