20 Beautiful Family Summer Destinations in Brazil
Brazil is a dream destination for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. From pristine beaches to lush national parks, the country offers diverse experiences for all ages. Whether you’re looking for fun-filled water activities, wildlife encounters, or cultural immersion, Brazil has the perfect spot for your summer vacation.
Here are 20 stunning destinations across Brazil that promise an incredible family getaway, blending nature, adventure, and culture in the most exciting ways.
1. Florianópolis, Santa Catarina
Known as the Island of Magic, Florianópolis boasts over 40 breathtaking beaches perfect for families. Head to Jurerê Internacional for calm, clear waters and great beachfront restaurants, or explore Campeche Beach, where a short boat ride takes you to an island with crystal-clear pools and ancient petroglyphs.
Beyond the beaches, kids will love the Projeto Tamar turtle conservation center, where they can see and learn about sea turtles up close. For a break from the sun, visit Lagoa da Conceição, a picturesque lagoon offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and delicious seafood.
2. Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul
If your family loves nature and adventure, Bonito is a must-visit. Famous for its crystal-clear rivers, this eco-tourism paradise lets you snorkel alongside colorful fish in the Rio da Prata or explore the breathtaking Blue Lake Cave (Gruta do Lago Azul).
For a thrilling experience, visit the Boca da Onça Waterfall, the highest in the state, with natural pools perfect for a refreshing dip. The region also offers fun activities like zip-lining, tubing, and horseback riding, making it ideal for families with kids of all ages.
3. Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco
One of Brazil’s most famous beach destinations, Porto de Galinhas is perfect for families seeking relaxation and adventure. The natural pools formed by coral reefs create safe, shallow swimming areas where kids can see fish up close.
For an unforgettable experience, take a jangada (traditional wooden raft) tour to explore the reefs. Families can also visit the Hippocampus Project, a conservation center dedicated to seahorses, or enjoy the nearby Maracaípe Beach, where river and ocean meet in a beautiful mangrove ecosystem.
4. Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul
If you’re looking for a European-style getaway, Gramado is a fantastic choice. This charming mountain town is famous for its Swiss-style chalets, chocolate shops, and beautiful gardens. In summer, the mild temperatures make it perfect for outdoor activities like paddle boating on Lago Negro and exploring the fairytale-like Mini Mundo theme park.
Kids will love Snowland, an indoor winter wonderland with artificial snow and ice slides, while parents can indulge in delicious fondue dinners at the many cozy restaurants around town.
5. Jericoacoara, Ceará
For families looking to disconnect and enjoy untouched nature, Jericoacoara is a paradise. This remote beach town offers golden dunes, crystal-clear lagoons, and incredible sunsets. The famous Pedra Furada, a rock arch by the sea, is a must-see attraction.
Kids will love Lagoa do Paraíso, a freshwater lagoon with hammocks in the water, creating a picture-perfect setting for relaxation. The laid-back village has no paved roads, giving it a unique charm, and there are plenty of activities like sandboarding and buggy tours for an adventurous twist.
6. Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro
A short boat ride from the mainland, Ilha Grande is a natural paradise where cars are banned, making it a safe and peaceful retreat for families. The island is home to over 100 beaches, with calm waters at Lopes Mendes and Abraão Beach, perfect for kids.
Families can explore the Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul), where snorkeling among vibrant marine life is a magical experience. The island also offers jungle hikes leading to hidden waterfalls, making it a great spot for adventure-loving families.
7. Caldas Novas, Goiás
If your family loves water parks, Caldas Novas is a dream come true. This city is home to the largest hydrothermal resort in the world, with naturally warm pools, lazy rivers, and thrilling water slides at places like Hot Park and diRoma Acqua Park.
For a more relaxing experience, visit the Serra de Caldas Novas State Park, where you can hike through scenic trails and discover beautiful waterfalls. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for all ages.
8. Natal, Rio Grande do Norte
Natal is a coastal gem known for its golden dunes, crystal-clear waters, and year-round sunshine. Families can explore the stunning Genipabu Dunes, where kids can go sandboarding or ride camels for a unique experience.
For a day of fun in the water, visit Maracajaú, also known as the “Brazilian Caribbean,” where snorkeling and diving reveal a colorful underwater world. Don’t miss the Pirangi Cashew Tree, the world’s largest cashew tree, offering a fun and educational stop for the whole family.
9. Búzios, Rio de Janeiro
Once a sleepy fishing village, Búzios is now one of Brazil’s top beach destinations. Families will love Ferradura Beach, with its calm waters ideal for kids, and João Fernandes Beach, where you can spot colorful fish while snorkeling.
Take a boat tour around the peninsula to discover hidden beaches and sea caves, or stroll through the charming streets of Rua das Pedras, filled with boutiques, cafes, and delicious seafood restaurants. Búzios offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for families.
10. Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás
For a unique adventure in the heart of Brazil, Chapada dos Veadeiros offers breathtaking landscapes, majestic waterfalls, and surreal rock formations. Families can explore Santa Bárbara Waterfall, with its unbelievably blue waters, or hike through the stunning Vale da Lua, a rocky valley shaped by the elements.
The region is also known for its incredible stargazing, making it a fantastic place to introduce kids to the wonders of the night sky. Many eco-lodges and guided tours cater to families, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.
11. Fortaleza, Ceará
Fortaleza is a vibrant coastal city with stunning beaches and exciting attractions for families. One of the highlights is Beach Park, the largest water park in Latin America, featuring thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and a giant wave pool.
For a more relaxed experience, visit Praia do Futuro, where kid-friendly beachfront restaurants (barracas) offer shaded play areas and delicious local cuisine. Families can also explore the Ceará Aquarium or take a buggy tour along the scenic coastline.
12. Ilhabela, São Paulo
If your family loves both beaches and adventure, Ilhabela is an excellent destination. This tropical island paradise has over 40 pristine beaches, waterfalls, and lush trails. Praia do Curral is a favorite for families with its calm waters and excellent beachside amenities.
Nature lovers will enjoy hiking in Ilhabela State Park, where you can spot monkeys and tropical birds along the trails. The island is also one of the best places for whale watching between July and October.
13. Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais
For a cultural and historical family trip, Ouro Preto offers a fascinating glimpse into Brazil’s colonial past. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with beautifully preserved baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning churches like São Francisco de Assis.
Families can explore the Mina da Passagem, an old gold mine where kids can ride an underground trolley, or visit the Inconfidência Museum, which brings history to life in an engaging way. The city’s charming atmosphere and rich history make it a unique destination for all ages.
14. Morro de São Paulo, Bahia
This car-free tropical paradise is perfect for families looking for a laid-back beach escape. The First Beach and Fourth Beach offer shallow, crystal-clear waters ideal for children, while adventurous families can enjoy zip-lining from the town’s lighthouse into the ocean.
Take a boat tour to Boipeba Island, where kids can explore natural pools filled with colorful marine life. The charming village atmosphere, combined with stunning beaches, makes Morro de São Paulo an unforgettable family destination.
15. Alter do Chão, Pará
Known as the “Caribbean of the Amazon,” Alter do Chão is famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear rivers. Families can relax at Ilha do Amor, a picturesque sandbank, or take a canoe ride through the lush Igapó Forest, where kids can spot monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.
A boat trip to Lago Verde reveals a breathtaking lagoon with floating vegetation and vibrant wildlife. This hidden Amazonian gem offers a unique mix of beach relaxation and rainforest adventure.
16. Balneário Camboriú, Santa Catarina
A bustling beach town with family-friendly attractions, Balneário Camboriú is often called the “Brazilian Dubai” for its stunning skyline. The beaches are beautiful, but one of the biggest highlights is Unipraias Park, where a cable car ride connects three scenic locations, including a mountaintop viewpoint and an ecological park with adventure trails.
Families can also visit Beto Carrero World, the largest theme park in Latin America, featuring roller coasters, live shows, and interactive exhibits. With a mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, this destination is ideal for all ages.
17. Arraial d’Ajuda, Bahia
This colorful beach town offers a relaxed yet exciting atmosphere, perfect for a family summer getaway. The beaches, like Pitinga and Mucugê, have calm, warm waters, and nearby reefs create natural swimming pools for kids to explore marine life.
A visit to Eco Parque Arraial d’Ajuda, a water park with slides, wave pools, and river rafting, guarantees a day of family fun. The town’s vibrant streets, lined with shops, cafes, and live music, make it a fantastic place to explore with kids.
18. Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná
For one of the most breathtaking experiences in Brazil, Foz do Iguaçu is an unmissable destination. The Iguaçu Falls, one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world, offers stunning viewpoints and safe walking trails that allow families to get up close to the cascades.
A visit to the Parque das Aves (Bird Park) is a must, where kids can see toucans, macaws, and other exotic birds in a lush sanctuary. Families can also take a fun boat ride near the falls or cross into Argentina for another incredible perspective.
19. Paraty, Rio de Janeiro
A charming colonial town surrounded by mountains and beaches, Paraty offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and nature. Families can stroll through the cobblestone streets, explore colorful colonial buildings, and visit the Paraty Puppet Theater, which is a hit with kids.
Boat trips to nearby islands and beaches, like Praia do Sono, provide a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. The Cachoeira do Tobogã, a natural rock slide, is a fun and unique experience for both kids and adults.
20. Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco
For families seeking a once-in-a-lifetime beach experience, Fernando de Noronha is a dream destination. This exclusive island paradise is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, such as Baía do Sancho and Praia do Leão, both perfect for snorkeling with sea turtles and tropical fish.
Families can explore the Dolphin Bay (Baía dos Golfinhos), where they can watch dolphins playing in their natural habitat. With its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and eco-friendly atmosphere, this destination is perfect for an unforgettable family adventure.
