Padres and Guaibura Beaches: the hidden side of Guarapari

Most guests staying at the Perocao cabanas never go past Boiao Beach or the closest stretch of sand — missing the quieter side of Guarapari. A 20-25 minute drive away, in Enseada Azul, two small beaches stay off the usual route: Praia dos Padres, hidden behind a short trail, and Praia de Guaibura, calm and framed by rocky headlands. Neither has a kiosk or a line — just a short trail, rock and clear water, which already filters out most of the crowd.

Where Enseada Azul is

Enseada Azul is the beach complex formed by Bacutia, Peracanga and Guaibura, in the south of Guarapari, about 7 to 8 km from downtown. It sits in the opposite direction from Perocao, which is at the northern edge of the municipality — so the drive from the cabanas takes 20 to 25 minutes, crossing through downtown. It is the same region as Praia da Bacutia, already covered on the Diario; Padres and Guaibura are the lesser-known neighbors on the same stretch of coast.

The region is also a diving spot: near Enseada Azul, a cargo ship sank in 1942 about 300 meters from shore at 8 meters deep — the wreck became an artificial reef that now shelters a variety of fish, a draw of its own for divers in the area. That is not the focus for guests just walking to Praia dos Padres or Guaibura, but it helps explain why Enseada Azul stays on the map for anyone chasing quieter, less crowded water.

Praia dos Padres: the trail worth the walk

Praia dos Padres sits between Enseada Azul and Meaipe, and there is no road access — only a short, tree-lined trail that starts at Praia da Bacutia. The walk is quick but works as a natural filter: anyone unwilling to walk even a little does not make it there. The reward is a small stretch of sand (measurements vary between 50 and 142 meters depending on the source and the tide), surrounded by native vegetation and rocks that form calm, clear natural pools close to shore. The open sea just past the rocks tends to get rough, so it is worth swimming close to the sand rather than heading toward open water. There is no kiosk, no restroom and nowhere to buy water — visitors bring whatever they need.

No kiosk, no line — just a short trail, rock and clear water, and that alone keeps the crowd away.

Guaibura: the quiet neighbor in Enseada Azul

Praia de Guaibura sits at the start of the Enseada Azul complex, bordering Praia do Riacho to the north. Unlike Praia dos Padres, access is direct, with no trail, which makes it a better fit for families with small children or anyone who wants predictability. The water tends to stay calmer than the average of the Espirito Santo coast, and the surrounding preserved Atlantic Forest keeps the view free of tall buildings.

Planning the trip from Perocao

The Cavalo Marinho and Ourico do Mar cabanas sit on Rua Domingos Correia da Rocha, in Perocao — the northern edge of Guarapari. The drive to Enseada Azul crosses the entire city, so it is worth leaving in the morning, ahead of downtown traffic during high season. A car is the most direct way; ride-hailing apps work well for guests without their own vehicle.

1. Leave early (before 10am) — the drive from Perocao to Enseada Azul crosses downtown Guarapari, slower during high season.
2. Park near Praia da Bacutia and follow the tree-lined trail to Praia dos Padres — a short walk with no tourist signage.
3. Bring water, sunscreen and snacks — neither beach has a kiosk or shops nearby.
4. Pick Guaibura for guests traveling with small children or who prefer direct access with no trail; Praia dos Padres suits those willing to walk a little further for privacy.

Frequently asked questions