The 50-minute hike through dense rainforest to Sono Beach is part of its appeal; keep an eye out for monkeys and colorful toucans along the way. A trail leading from the church (about halfway down the beach) takes hikers to some waterfalls and natural swimming pools hidden in the jungle.
While it’s possible to get to the beach independently, it’s often more convenient to visit as part of a guided rainforest trek, where you can learn more about the local plant and animal life, as well as the region’s history. These itineraries often include plenty of free time to relax, swim, or explore before hiking back to the starting point.
To get to Sono Beach, catch a Colitur bus from Paraty to Laranjeiras; the trip takes about 40 minutes. (Guided tours often offer transportation from Paraty to Laranjeiras.) From there you can make the nearly hour-long hike to the beach or hop aboard one of the local boats that sail to Sono.
The beach is always open, although it’s a good idea to get an early start so you have enough time to explore the nearby waterfalls as well. March tends to offer the best conditions for swimming, and the weather is generally good from April to September, too. Avoid January, as this tends to be the rainiest time of year.
Paraty makes an excellent base for beach hopping, and many beaches are only accessible by boat, which means they’re rarely crowded. The clear waters of Saco do Mamanguá teems with sea turtles and tropical fish. Lula Beach, among the most popular, is included in most boat tours around the bay and offers stellar views of Paraty’s colonial architecture. For a livelier beach experience, complete with beachside bars and seafood restaurants, head to Trindade Beach.
