The park contains the Pouso Paranapiacaba, which features a prominent observation deck overlooking the Serra do Mar escarpment.
The paved route, known as the Caminho do Mar, was the main access road between the city of São Paulo and the coast until the 1920s.
The monuments within the park were commissioned by the São Paulo state government to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Brazil's independence in 1922.
The area is home to a high density of bromeliads and orchids native to the Atlantic Forest biome.
The Belvedere Circular was built to offer travelers a wide-angle view of the mountainous coastline before the completion of modern highways.
Parque Caminhos do Mar is a protected section of the Serra do Mar State Park located on the historic Estrada Velha de Santos. The park features a 9-kilometer path connecting the plateau to the coast, characterized by its preserved Atlantic Forest ecosystem. It houses several listed historical monuments commemorating the centennial of Brazil's independence. Visitors can explore the Pouso Paranapiacaba, a building originally designed as a rest stop for travelers descending to the coast. The trail showcases architectural landmarks such as the Rancho da Maioridade and the Belvedere Circular. The geography is defined by its steep topography, historically serving as the main route between São Paulo and the port of Santos. It is currently managed by a public-private partnership aimed at ecotourism and heritage conservation.
The Belvedere Circular monument, which offers a clear vantage point of the winding descent and the distant ocean.
Bring water and high-energy snacks as there are limited services on the trail.
Check the weather forecast for the Serra do Mar region, as heavy fog can frequently obscure the views.
Wear moisture-wicking clothing to accommodate the high humidity of the rainforest environment.
Attempting the full descent without adequate physical preparation or proper footwear, as the stone-paved paths can be slippery.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for maintenance and conservation; operational days strictly follow park management schedules.
Hiking boots with good traction are mandatory; stay strictly on marked paths to protect the sensitive flora.
