Búzios sits just to the east of Rio de Janeiro, three hours by road, and is an upscale beach resort with small town charm. This peninsula of twenty-three white sand beaches and crystal clear waters was home to a cluster of sleepy fishing villages until the 1960s. Then Brigitte Bardot and the hippies arrived, and like all hippy discoveries, mainstream tourism was not far behind. Today Buzios is a slick beachside hang-out dotted with gourmet restaurants, upmarket boutiques, and trendy bars. The best places to stay in Búzios vary between tropical hideaways, sleek boutiques and charming little guesthouses.
The peninsula offers something for everyone, and is split into three distinct areas. Around the yacht club area, for example, it feels a bit like St Tropez, full of beautiful beach clothes and a string of nighclubs a few minutes away in the Rua das Pedras. Cobblestoned streets are full of artisan boutiques.
On the other side of the peninsula is the Praia da Farradura, one of the most popular beaches. For people watching it can't be beat, but with over twenty beaches to choose from, you can find quieter spots if you travel a bit further, such as Ferradurinha, tucked away in a little cove and enjoying picturesque surroundings. While if it's roamntic dining and sunsets you are after, head to the end of the peninsula to the Rocka Beach Lounge for fantastic seafood, and gorgeous sea views.
The best places to stay in Buzios are, as you would expect, upmarket, but if you want to spend less we have recommended a couple of budget friendly hotels. It's also doable as a day trip from Rio.