- The Lagoa de Araruama is the largest hypersaline lagoon in the world, a unique feature resulting from high evaporation rates and limited fresh water input.
- The city was historically a center for salt production, which played a major role in shaping the local economy throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- The name 'Araruama' originates from the Tupi language, believed to mean 'place where shells abound' or 'river of shells'.
- The lagoon is an internationally recognized site for wind-related water sports due to the consistent thermal winds that blow across the water surface.
About Araruama
Araruama is a strategic municipality in the Região dos Lagos of Rio de Janeiro, defined by its massive hyper-saline lagoon, the Lagoa de Araruama. It serves as a regional commercial hub, connecting the coastline with inland routes. Visitors frequently explore the extensive shoreline, including spots like Praia da Pontinha and the recreational facilities at Sítio Ilha do Lazer - Parque de Diversões. The city's geography is dominated by the water, which influences both its local economy and its leisure infrastructure.
Highlights of Araruama
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Beaches and ponds
The expansive salt-water lagoon provides a primary focal point for windsurfing and sailing.
Beaches and ponds
This beach area is a popular choice for families due to its calm, shallow waters and accessibility from the center.
Parks
A recreational park offering amusement rides and family-oriented outdoor activities.
Beaches and ponds
A serene stretch of coastline favored for sunset views and coastal walks.
Temples
A religious site reflecting the community's local cultural and spiritual traditions.
Parks
An urban park space serving as a central point for community gathering in the BNH neighborhood.
Top things to do in Araruama
The 24 highest-rated places in Araruama, ranked by travellers.
1
Beaches and ponds
Praia da Barrinha is a unique coastal environment in Saquarema where the freshwater of the Saquarema Lagoon meets the sa...
2
Temples
Paróquia Nossa Senhora de Nazareth is a historic church perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in...
3
Beaches and ponds
Praia da Vila is internationally recognized as the 'Brazilian Capital of Surf' due to its consistent, high-energy swells...
4
Parks
Sítio Ilha do Lazer is a family-oriented amusement and leisure park located in the Itatiquara district of Araruama, Rio...
5
Beaches and ponds
Praia do Gavião is located on the shores of the Araruama Lagoon in the Iguabinha district of Araruama. The beach is char...
6
Beaches and ponds
Praia Vilatur is a rugged, expansive beach located in the municipality of Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, known for its power...
7
Beaches and ponds
Praia da Pontinha is a prominent urban beach situated on the shores of the Araruama Lagoon in the state of Rio de Janeir...
8
Venues
Estádio Elcyr Resende de Mendonça is a multi-use stadium located in Bacaxá, within the municipality of Saquarema, Rio de...
9
Beaches and ponds
10
Beaches and ponds
11
Beaches and ponds
12
Beaches and ponds
13
Natural attractions
14
Beaches and ponds
15
Places of interest
16
Temples
17
Places of interest
18
Parks
19
Temples
20
Beaches and ponds
21
Places of interest
22
Places of interest
23
Temples
24
Parks
Around Araruama
Worth the short trip out of the city.
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Jump straight to what you're into.
Araruama on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Araruama
December to March, as these summer months offer the warmest weather for beach activities and water sports, though they are the busiest periods.
2-3 days, sufficient to explore the lagoon edges and local beaches.
The city is best navigated by car or local bus lines, as attractions are spread along the perimeter of the large lagoon.
The Center (Centro) is convenient for proximity to commerce, while the areas near Praia da Pontinha offer more direct access to the waterfront.
Generally mid-range, offering accessible local services and vacation rentals compared to the more tourist-saturated neighboring coastal cities.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 24 curated attractions in and around Araruama, ranked by traveller ratings.
Praia da Barrinha is the highest-rated place to visit in Araruama right now.
The largest category is beaches and ponds, with 11 places to explore.
Travellers also explore São Paulo, Brasília, Fortaleza.
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Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
