7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Sao Paulo

São Paulo, Brazil, is a bustling metropolis known for its skyscrapers, cultural diversity, and vibrant nightlife. However, even the most dedicated urbanite needs a break from the city's fast pace. Digital nomads living in São Paulo have a plethora of weekend getaway options that offer a change of scenery and a chance to recharge. From popular coastal retreats to hidden inland gems, there's something for every taste. Here are seven fun weekend getaways for those looking to explore beyond São Paulo's concrete jungle.

Ilhabela

Ilhabela, an archipelago located off the São Paulo coast, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its lush Atlantic rainforest, beautiful beaches, and clear waters, it's a perfect spot for hiking, sailing, and diving. The island's laid-back vibe is a great contrast to São Paulo's hustle and bustle. Visitors can explore waterfalls, enjoy the local cuisine, and relax on the beach.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Ilhabela is by car and ferry. Drive to São Sebastião and take a ferry to the island. The journey from São Paulo to São Sebastião takes about 3.5 hours by car.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit Castelhanos Beach, accessible by a scenic off-road trail or by boat, offering one of the most stunning views on the island.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the DPNY Beach Hotel, which boasts a beautiful beachfront location and a luxurious spa. For a more intimate experience, the Pousada Praia do Portinho offers cozy accommodations near the beach.

Where to Eat: Marakuthai Ilhabela offers a fusion of Thai and Brazilian cuisine with a fantastic view of the sea. Their shrimp in pumpkin is a must-try dish.

Campos do Jordão

Campos do Jordão, often referred to as Brazil's Switzerland, is a mountainous retreat that offers cool weather and European-style architecture. It's a popular destination for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The town also hosts a famous winter music festival, and its charming streets are lined with boutique shops and chocolatiers.

How to Get There: The drive from São Paulo to Campos do Jordão takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Tietê Bus Terminal, which offers several daily departures.

Travel Tip: Visit the Amantikir Gardens, which feature beautifully landscaped gardens inspired by designs from around the world.

Where to Stay: Hotel Vila Inglesa offers a traditional and luxurious stay with stunning mountain views, while Pousada Nacional Inn provides a more budget-friendly option with comfortable amenities.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Libertango is a cozy spot with a fireplace, known for its Argentinean cuisine and excellent steaks.

Paraty

Paraty is a historic colonial town on the Costa Verde between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Its cobblestone streets, preserved Portuguese colonial buildings, and the backdrop of lush mountains make it a picturesque destination. Paraty is also known for its cultural festivals and vibrant art scene. Visitors can enjoy boat tours to nearby islands and beaches, as well as sample the local cachaça at nearby distilleries.

How to Get There: The journey to Paraty from São Paulo takes about 4.5 hours by car or bus. Regular buses run from São Paulo's main bus terminals.

Travel Tip: Take a schooner trip to explore the surrounding bay and its secluded beaches and islands.

Where to Stay: Pousada do Ouro is a charming guesthouse in the historic center with a lovely pool and garden area. For a beachfront experience, stay at the Casa Turquesa - Maison D'Hôtes.

Where to Eat: Banana da Terra offers an exquisite taste of local cuisine with a contemporary twist, set in a beautiful colonial house.

Serra da Bocaina National Park

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Serra da Bocaina National Park is an ideal getaway. This protected area is home to a vast expanse of Atlantic rainforest, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. It's a perfect spot for eco-tourists and hikers looking to immerse themselves in Brazil's natural beauty.

How to Get There: The park is best accessed by car. The drive from São Paulo to the park's entrance near São José do Barreiro takes about 4 hours.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the impressive Cachoeira Santo Isidro, one of the park's most accessible and beautiful waterfalls.

Where to Stay: There are rustic lodges and guesthouses near the park, such as Pousada Recanto da Floresta, which offers a tranquil setting and local cuisine.

Where to Eat: Dining options are limited within the park, so it's advisable to bring your own food or dine at your accommodation, where you can often enjoy homemade Brazilian dishes.

Ilha do Cardoso

Ilha do Cardoso is a secluded state park island that offers pristine beaches, mangroves, and a rich biodiversity. Accessible only by boat, it's a haven for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature. The island has few inhabitants and limited infrastructure, ensuring a truly rustic and peaceful experience. Visitors can go hiking, dolphin watching, and explore traditional caiçara communities.

How to Get There: To reach Ilha do Cardoso, take a bus from São Paulo to Cananéia, which takes about 6 hours, and then a boat to the island.

Travel Tip: Visit the Marujá community for a chance to learn about the local caiçara culture and enjoy community-based tourism activities.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are basic, with options like the Pousada Marujá offering simple rooms and a chance to stay within the local community.

Where to Eat: Dining is typically offered by the guesthouses or local residents, with fresh seafood and traditional caiçara dishes being the highlight.

Cananeia

Cananeia is a historic coastal town that serves as the gateway to the Ilha do Cardoso State Park. It's one of the oldest towns in Brazil and retains much of its colonial charm. Cananeia is also a starting point for boat trips to nearby islands and for observing the region's diverse wildlife, including dolphins and migratory birds.

How to Get There: The bus ride from São Paulo to Cananeia takes approximately 6 hours. Once there, you can explore the town and its surroundings by foot or boat.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a boat tour in the estuary to spot the friendly local dolphins known as "boto-cinza."

Where to Stay: Hotel Marazul offers comfortable accommodations with views of the estuary, while Pousada Berro D'Água provides a more intimate setting.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Porto Brasil is known for its delicious seafood dishes, especially the traditional "mariscada," a mixed seafood stew.

Itu

Itu is a small city with a big reputation, famous for its oversized street fixtures and historical importance. It's a quirky destination that offers a mix of cultural attractions, such as museums and churches, and natural beauty, with nearby parks and farms. Itu is also known for its antique shops and traditional Brazilian food.

How to Get There: Itu is just an hour's drive from São Paulo, making it an easy day trip or weekend destination. Regular buses also connect the two cities.

Travel Tip: Be sure to take a photo with the giant traffic signal at Praça da Matriz and visit the Fazenda do Chocolate for a taste of local sweets and a glimpse of farm life.

Where to Stay: The Fazenda Capoava offers a unique stay in a historic farmhouse setting, complete with horseback riding and hiking trails.

Where to Eat: Bar do Alemão is an Itu institution, famous for its "parmegiana" steak and lively atmosphere.

These weekend getaways provide a refreshing escape for digital nomads living in São Paulo, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment. Whether you're looking for a beach retreat, a mountain escape, or a historical journey, these destinations have something special to offer.