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

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DOM Barra Hotel
Zendaya Resort Beach Sport & Spa
Gente Bonita Mirante

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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
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
Linx Galeão by Wish

Linx Galeão by Wish

3 out of 5
Avenida Vinte de Janeiro, s/n, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Linx Galeão by Wish
Hotel Atlântico Prime

Hotel Atlântico Prime

4 out of 5
Rua do Resende 87, Rio de Janeiro, RJ
Hotel Atlântico Prime
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
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
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 a variety of activities for tourists, including breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, as well as vibrant dancing experiences. Families can enjoy boat tours and beach excursions, making it a perfect spot for beach enthusiasts and those interested in sightseeing in Brazil. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand or explore the stunning scenery, there's something for everyone at this iconic destination.

Shopping

For shopping, check out Feira Nordestina, a lively market 15 miles away offering local crafts and goods. If you're up for a drive, visit Shopping Tijuca, 17 miles away, featuring various shops and entertainment options that capture the vibrant city vibe.

Recreation

At Maracanã Stadium, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying wellness activities like yoga and fitness classes. Buzios Golf Club offers a serene outdoor environment for golfing and relaxation, while Júlio Delamare Aquatics Centre provides family-friendly aquatic activities for all ages, promoting health and well-being.

Adventure

The Sugarloaf Cable Car offers breathtaking views as you ascend to the summit, perfect for thrilling photo opportunities. At Pista Claudio Coutinho, enjoy scenic outdoor trails ideal for hiking and exploring. The Corcovado Train provides a fun ride through lush landscapes, culminating in stunning vistas of the iconic Christ the Redeemer.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife around Guanabara Bay by visiting SESC Teresopolis for a cultural evening, Teatro João Caetano for a romantic atmosphere, or Theataro Net Rio for family-friendly entertainment. Each venue offers a unique blend of culture and fun, perfect for an unforgettable night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Guanabara Bay

Guanabara Bay in Rio de Janeiro offers a blend of culture and outdoor experiences, featuring popular attractions like the Guanabara Palace, the breathtaking Copacabana Beach, and the scenic entrance to the bay. Visitors can explore the picturesque islands, enjoy stunning views from the mouth of the bay, and immerse themselves in the local culture while capturing beautiful images of this iconic destination.

  • Paqueta Island Beach: Escape to Paqueta Island Beach, a serene getaway located 3 miles from Guanabara Bay. Enjoy the soft sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The island's laid-back atmosphere invites relaxation and outdoor activities, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
  • Niterói Contemporary Art Museum: Situated 13 miles away, the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum is a masterpiece of modern architecture. With its striking design by Oscar Niemeyer, the museum showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art, offering a rich cultural experience that captivates visitors.
  • Boulevard Olimpico: Located 14 miles from Guanabara Bay, Boulevard Olimpico is a vibrant street filled with art, dining, and entertainment. Stroll along the waterfront, admire stunning murals, and immerse yourself in the bustling city vibe that Rio has to offer.

Best time to go to Guanabara Bay

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July70.0°F (21.1°C)No RainMostly 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

To save money on your trip to Guanabara Bay, plan your visit between June and August when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Wednesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter hotels by budget and sustainability. Consider booking a package deal that combines flights and activities for added savings. Joining the One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and earn you cash for future stays.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Guanabara Bay is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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 refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Guanabara Bay with your flights and activities by purchasing 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.

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