Cais de Paraty (Waterfront and Pier)
Welcome to Cais de Paraty, where the charm of Paraty's past and present converge. As you step onto the Cais de Turismo, you'll find yourself at the heart of the town's vibrant waterfront, a place where the historic and the picturesque blend seamlessly. Imagine the sight of schooners and smaller boats lining up, ready to take you on a journey to the enchanting islands and beaches of Paraty Bay. Whether you're here to embark on a schooner adventure or simply to soak in the stunning views, the Cais de Paraty promises an unforgettable experience.
Paraty's tourist pier, the Cais de Turismo, is where the town meets the bay. Schooners and smaller boats line up along it, and every morning it fills with travelers heading out to the islands and beaches of Paraty Bay. The pier sits on the edge of the historic center, by Praça da Bandeira and the old fishermen's market building, which is now a crafts market. From here you get one of the best views of the Igreja de Santa Rita with green mountains behind it, the classic Paraty postcard. Paraty was a port town long before it was a tourist town, and the waterfront is still where boats come and go all day. Even if you're not taking a boat trip, it's worth a short stroll to watch the boats and take photos. Most schooner tours leave between about 10:00 and 11:00 and come back around 15:00–16:00, so late morning is the liveliest time.
History
Paraty grew up as a port. In colonial times it was the outlet to the sea for the Caminho Velho of the Estrada Real, shipping gold from Minas Gerais on its way to Lisbon. The waterfront was long the working harbour where all kinds of boats, especially fishing boats, came in. Today the Cais de Turismo is mainly the departure point for schooner and boat trips around Paraty Bay, and it remains the town's main link with the sea.
Fun Facts
- The view of Santa Rita from the pier, with the mountains behind it, is one of Paraty's most famous postcards.
- Most schooner trips last around five hours and stop at several islands and beaches that can only be reached by sea.
- In colonial times this waterfront shipped Minas Gerais gold that had come down the Estrada Real, on its way to Lisbon.
Guide Tips
- Taking a schooner trip? Most leave between 10:00 and 11:00. Arrive 30–40 minutes early to check in, and book the day before with an agency in town or online.
- Not sailing? Come back in the late morning to watch the schooners leave, or stand at the pier for the classic photo of Santa Rita with the mountains behind it.
Opening Hours
Open-air, always accessible. Schooner departures mostly 10:00 - 11:00, returning around 15:00 - 16:00.