Cabo Frio is where you’ve got to be this year. This beautiful city in Brazil is the perfect amalgamation of serenity, history, hospitality, and leisure.

Usually, when people think of Brazil, they think of parties or famous holiday destinations such as Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana, and Sao Paolo.

But let me tell you, while Rio de Janeiro is a world-famous carnival celebration hub, there is more to Brazil than Rio, Sao Paolo, and Copacabana.

A city that is often overlooked is Cabo Frio. It is a small coastal city known for its beaches, sandy shores, and gorgeous views.

And if we were to describe Cabo Frio in a sentence, it’s a laid-back city filled with plenty of good restaurants and a few nightlife options.

It is an offbeat place with something to offer everyone since it’s the perfect blend of history, natural scenic beauty, and good food.

Things to do in Cabo Frio

Here’s a list of things you can do in Cabo Frio:

Visit Ilha do Japonês or the Japanese Island.

The Japanese island was a fishing site from 1887 to 1975 and was home to 200 fishermen and farmers who lived in traditional thatched huts.

Even today, you can find these beautiful huts dotting the landscape, which adds to the aesthetics of the small city. I was taken aback by the beauty of the beaches, the atmosphere, and the hospitality.

Locals recommend enjoying the pleasant weather along with the beautiful sandy beaches that match the looks of beaches in the Maldives. You can also camp on the island or stay at hotels in Cabo Frio that let you experience the best of this offbeat little city.

Explore the streets in Passagem.

A neighborhood you can’t miss in Cabo Frio is Passagem. It was one of the earliest settlements built in the city, known for its rustic cobblestone streets and colonial houses. This neighborhood lets you experience the blend of its history, culture, and local bars.

A day trip to Arraial Do Cabo.

If you’ve got time, you can take a day trip to Arraial do Cabo, a small, rustic, and authentic seaside town.

This old, charming town is located south of Cabo Frio, just 30 minutes away. It is a town known for its ecotourism, natural landscapes, and, of course, its old fishing practices.

Some beaches you should check out are Praia Grande, Praia do Forno, and Pontal do Atalaia.

Check out the Sao Benedito Chapel.

Built in the 18th century, the Sao Benedito Chapel is one of the most charming attractions in the city. It is surrounded by picturesque scenery, leaving you wanting to take pictures.

Getting to Cabo Frio from Rio de Janeiro

If you want to travel to Cabo Frio from Rio de Janeiro, the best option is to drive there by yourself or take a bus. The distance between both cities is 153 kilometers, so the best option would be to take the bus if you are traveling in a large group.

If, however, you would like to hire a cab, you can do that too.

Subsequently, if you want to travel to Cabo Frio from Arraial do Cabo, you can take a taxi, an Uber, or a bus.

Restaurants in Cabo Frio

Cao Frio has some of the best restaurants. When it comes to gastronomy, you will not be disappointed. You can find a plethora of cuisines, from Portuguese to Italian and Greek food.

Some of our top picks are:

Kento: This place serves unmatched oriental cuisine. The dishes are all reasonably priced, and it is known for its seafood palate.
Galapagos Restaurant: If you prefer a cozy atmosphere and a sober menu, you can explore Galapagos.
Arcos do Canal: If you’ve got a thing for Italian cuisine, this place won’t disappoint. It is a highly welcoming place that serves some of the best meals you will ever taste.

Where to Stay: Hotels in Cabo Frio

Cabo Frio has some of the best hotels, inns, rentals, and other accommodations you can request.

The best hotels in Cabo Frio

Recanto da Passagem: This affordable hotel is located by the sea. It provides all the necessary amenities and is close to the Japanese Island, Sao Mateus Fort, Forte Beach, and some of the best restaurants.
Oasis Cabo: situated in Braga, Oasis Cabo is another affordable hotel that provides all the necessary amenities and is close to attractions such as Dunas Beach, the beach handicraft market, and Sao Cristovao church. You will also find some excellent restaurants and cafes close by.
Hotel Cabo Frio: In Braga, you can easily walk to Dunas Park and Forte Beach and enjoy outdoor recreational activities. This is another mid-range hotel that provides all the amenities you require, and based on the room type, the prices fluctuate.

Airbnb in Cabo Frio

If you want to save a few bucks during your stay, you can opt for AirBnB. You will find rooms, beds, apartments, or houses for rent here. Depending on your budget, group, and amenities required, you can choose an option that best suits your needs.

We hope this article was of help to you. We’d happily share more information with you if you’d like more information.

All you need to do is drop us a message, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

While Bravo Pousada Design and Pousada da Passagem are a little on the pricey side, the others are more budget-friendly. If you need help with where to stay in Cabo Frio, check out local websites, Airbnb, or ask your travel agent to book a day trip.

Safety in Cabo Frio

If you’re worried about the safety of Cabo Frio, there is nothing for you to worry about. Although Brazil is known for being unsafe, especially for female or solo travelers, you mustn’t worry.

This little city is safer than other places, and since it is growing in popularity, there is more vigilance.