Public Square (Praça Pública) is Bonito’s main square, a place to take a break from the town’s ecotourism activities. This pretty plaza is popular with locals and tourist, all of whom come to relax on the tree-shaded lawns and wooden benches. Throughout the day you’ll see groups of friends chatting and families enjoying picnics. Public Square also hosts free cultural events.
The square has a collection of lawns interspersed by a series of wide pavements. Decorating its most central section is an artistic pond. It features two sculptures of the piraputanga, which is a river fish native to Bonito. Note how one of the fish appears to be jumping out of the pond while the other is diving into the water. At night the pond is illuminated and water sprays out of jets positioned next to the sculptures.
On evenings and weekends, Bonito’s residents turn the square into a social gathering point. Sit on the grassy areas with a picnic and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. Alternatively, dine at one of the bars and restaurants that line the square’s surrounding streets. Feast on plates of freshly caught piraputanga and other traditional Brazilian fare.
Ask at one of Bonito’s many tour operators about free special events being held at the square. These include carnival parades and live music performances.
Public Square sits in the heart of Bonito’s town center. Free parking is available around the square. Combine your time here with a visit to the town’s parish church, Paróquia São Pedro Apóstolo. Browse exhibits about the various species of regional fish at the Aquário de Bonito. About a 20-minute walk away is the Jibóia Project, where you can learn about the lives of non-venomous snakes and have a picture taken with a boa constrictor.
