Guanabara Bay Tours

Guanabara Bay showing general coastal views and a coastal town
Corcovado showing mountains
Guanabara Bay which includes landscape views, tranquil scenes and mist or fog
Guanabara Bay
Guanabara Bay


Many of Brazil’s spectacular mountains, dense tropical forests and lively urban areas, including Rio de Janeiro and Niterói, surround this large bay.

Guanabara Bay is an oceanic bay in Southeastern Brazil. The bay is famous for beaches with golden sand, such as Ipanema and Copacabana. Book a boat tour to see exotic islands or explore some of Brazil’s most exciting cities, municipalities and neighborhoods.

For striking views of the Rio de Janeiro coastline and forested mountains, tour Guanabara Bay via boat. Admire Sugarloaf Mountain and Tijuca Peak, famous Rio landmarks, as you sail on the tropical waters. Christ the Redeemer, a massive art deco sculpture depicting Jesus Christ, rises high above the city on Mount Corcovado. Grand sailing vessels, known as schooners, are frequently used for tours of Guanabara Bay.

Rio de Janeiro is located on the western shore of the bay. The city is famous for its bustling nightlife, beaches and the Rio Carnival, one of the largest street festivals in the world. Sunbathe on the famous Copacabana Beach or visit many art galleries, restaurants and bars in the bohemian hillside neighborhood of Santa Teresa.

The city of Rio de Janeiro is steeped in history and surrounded by magnificent rainforests. Take a walking tour of the city center to see buildings of cultural and architectural significance, including Paço Imperial, the historic former residence of colonial Brazil’s governors. Copacabana Fort, a 20th-century military stronghold, is another excellent attraction on Guanabara Bay.

Find Niterói, a municipality on the bay’s eastern shore. If you’re looking for a more peaceful beach atmosphere, stop at Niterói’s beautiful Itacoatiara Beach. The beach is popular with surfers and provides a calmer alternative to Rio’s famously crowded beaches. Niterói also features excellent art museums, theaters and restaurants.

Stay in the cities of Rio de Janeiro and Niterói when visiting Guanabara Bay. Rio contains many luxury hotels, guesthouses and self-catered apartments in the neighborhoods of Copacabana and Leme. Fly into Rio de Janeiro - Galeão International Airport when visiting Guanabara Bay.

For unrivaled views of Rio de Janeiro’s forested mountains, vibrant cityscape and golden beaches, book a day cruise on Guanabara Bay.

Plan a trip to see Guanabara Bay

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Augusto's Rio Copa Hotel
Ipanema Inn
Nobile Hotel Copacabana Design

Browse tours and tickets to explore Guanabara Bay

Tours & day trips

See all 538 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 150 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 119 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 78 activities

Shows & concerts

See all 20 activities

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Guanabara Bay

Plage Hotel

Plage Hotel

3 out of 5
Praia da Guanabara 1391, Ilha do Governador, Rio de Janeiro
Plage Hotel
Hotel Caracas Rio

Hotel Caracas Rio

3 out of 5
Praia da Guanabara, 633, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Hotel Caracas Rio
Quarto privativo em condomínio

Quarto privativo em condomínio

3 out of 5
R. Castorina Faria Lima 117, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Quarto privativo em condomínio
Linx Galeão

Linx Galeão

3 out of 5
Avenida Vinte de Janeiro, s/n, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Linx Galeão
Rio Aeroporto Hotel Galeão

Rio Aeroporto Hotel Galeão

3 out of 5
Av. Vinte de Janeiro, S/N – 3rd Floor, Tom Jobim International Airport, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Rio Aeroporto Hotel Galeão
Hotel Atlântico Prime

Hotel Atlântico Prime

4 out of 5
Rua do Resende 87, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Hotel Atlântico Prime
Américas Granada Hotel

Américas Granada Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Avenida Gomes Freire, 530 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Américas Granada Hotel
Hotel Atlântico Avenida

Hotel Atlântico Avenida

3 out of 5
Av. Rio Branco 33, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Hotel Atlântico Avenida
Hotel Atlantico Business Centro

Hotel Atlantico Business Centro

3.5 out of 5
Rua Senador Dantas, 25, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Hotel Atlantico Business Centro
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Guanabara Bay

Guanabara Bay offers an array of exciting activities, including breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, along with vibrant dancing experiences. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing the beautiful landscapes of the bay and explore the wonders of Brazil through day trips. Engage in fun puzzle clues and crossword puzzles that enhance your adventure while discovering the area's cultural richness and natural beauty.

Shopping

In Guanabara Bay, you can shop at Feira Nordestina, a vibrant public market 15 miles away, perfect for local gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit Shopping Tijuca, a family-friendly mall 17 miles away offering diverse shopping and entertainment options.

Recreation

Experience the electric atmosphere of Maracanã Stadium, where you can soak in the local sports culture. Enjoy a round of golf at Buzios Golf Club, set amidst beautiful outdoor scenery. For family fun, visit Júlio Delamare Aquatics Centre, featuring pools and activities for all ages.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at Sugarloaf Cable Car, a thrilling ride that offers stunning panoramas of Guanabara Bay. Then, hop on the Corcovado Train for an exciting ascent to Christ the Redeemer, surrounded by lush landscapes. Finally, explore Pista Claudio Coutinho for a scenic outdoor adventure along the coastline.

Nightlife

In Guanabara Bay, Teatro João Caetano offers a rich cultural experience just 14 miles away, perfect for family and romance. Theataro Net Rio, located 18 miles away, features vibrant entertainment options, while SESC Teresopolis, 23 miles away, also promises a delightful night filled with culture and fun.

Find the best attractions near Guanabara Bay

Guanabara Bay offers a rich blend of attractions for every type of traveler, including stunning beaches, historic churches, and picturesque islands. For a memorable experience, explore the cultural sites like the Guanabara Palace, relax at local beaches, or visit the charming baía de Guanabara. Whether seeking outdoor adventures or a taste of Brazilian culture, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this beautiful area of Rio de Janeiro.

  • Paquetá Island Beach: Escape to Paquetá Island Beach, a serene getaway just 3 miles from Guanabara Bay. Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes, picturesque landscapes, and the opportunity to relax on sandy shores, making it perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Niterói Contemporary Art Museum: Located 13 miles from Guanabara Bay, this striking architectural marvel houses a diverse collection of modern art. Experience the cultural vibes as you explore innovative exhibitions while enjoying stunning views of the bay and the city.
  • Mauá Square: This vibrant piazza, situated 13 miles away, is a cultural hub filled with art installations and lively events. Wander through the square, soak in the city atmosphere, and enjoy nearby dining options while taking in views of the waterfront.

Best time to go to Guanabara Bay

Visitor numbers around Guanabara Bay is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Guanabara Bay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Guanabara Bay falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Guanabara Bay falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March78.6°F (25.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June70.3°F (21.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July70.0°F (21.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Guanabara Bay

Guanabara Bay is a budget-friendly destination with free entry for visitors. To save money, plan your trip between June and August when hotel prices are lower, and book your stay about a month in advance. Wednesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find deals, customize your search by budget, and consider booking a package for flights and hotels together. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and earn you OneKeyCash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Guanabara Bay are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Guanabara Bay about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Guanabara Bay is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Guanabara Bay is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals available, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Guanabara Bay with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.