Guia de Paraty

Juatinga Lighthouse & Sumaca Beach

A coastal route linking Martim de Sá, Praia da Sumaca and Farol da Juatinga on an exposed headland within the Juatinga Ecological Reserve.

Category
Moderate
Location
Ponta da Juatinga — end of the Juatinga Reserve
  • ~8 km round trip from Martim de Sá
  • Low elevation — coastal trail with gentle climbs
  • ~4 hours round trip from Martim de Sá

About the trail

The walk links Martim de Sá to Praia da Sumaca and Farol da Juatinga at the end of the peninsula. The route combines open coastline, wind and limited shade, with views of the ocean and Ilha Grande Bay. It is best treated as an extension for visitors already staying or camping in the area.

Getting to the trailhead

Martim de Sá is the most practical base. From the community, follow the coastal trail toward Praia da Sumaca and Farol da Juatinga. Check the route, tide and return time with residents or local guides before setting out.

Environment and protection

An exposed coastal headland with low vegetation, strong wind and little shade, within the Juatinga Ecological Reserve.

Facilities along the route

There are no regular facilities near the lighthouse. Camping and food options in Sumaca or Martim de Sá may vary; confirm locally before leaving.

Best time to go

Choose a dry day with moderate wind. Tides and rough seas can affect coastal sections, so check conditions before the walk.

Safety

The route is exposed to sun, wind and changing sea conditions. Carry water, sun protection and shoes with good grip; do not rely on water sources along the way.

Local tips

Start early and leave enough time for the return. If you want to see sunrise, walk only with local guidance, suitable lighting and prior knowledge of the route.

Interesting facts

The lighthouse stands on a headland in the Juatinga Reserve where the open ocean meets the entrance to Ilha Grande Bay. Its position explains the steady wind and broad coastal view.

Need for a guide

A local guide is recommended for first-time visitors, anyone walking before sunrise or anyone crossing exposed coastal stretches around high tide. Check trail and sea conditions with residents or local guides.

Connections

  • Martim de Sá (base)
  • Sumaca Beach
  • Juatinga crossing
  • Paraty-Mirim (return by boat)

Overall assessment

A worthwhile extension for visitors already exploring the Martim de Sá area. Tide, wind and timing must be planned carefully.

Monthly update

September 10, 2026.

Juatinga Lighthouse on a granite outcrop overlooking the blue ocean beneath a summer sky with white clouds.
Juatinga Lighthouse on the rocky headland, with an open ocean view on a summer day.
Two backpackers descend a trail surrounded by vegetation toward Praia da Sumaca, seen from above.
Image of the trail to Praia da Sumaca, with two hikers walking toward the cove.
Praia da Sumaca with golden sand, blue-green sea and waves breaking against the rocks, surrounded by Atlantic Forest beneath a clear sky.
Praia da Sumaca on a clear summer day, between golden sand, blue-green water and the Atlantic Forest.
A trail sign in the Atlantic Forest points left to Praia da Sumaca, 3.7 kilometres away.
The sign marks the continuation of the route through the Atlantic Forest to Praia da Sumaca, 3.7 kilometers away.
Image 1 of 4

Nearby places

Distance is approximate and measured in a straight line.