Activity
Stand-Up Paddle & Kayak in Paraty: The Bay at Your Own Pace
Calm water, mangroves and the quiet of paddling. Where to SUP and kayak in Paraty — and why it's one of the loveliest ways to see the bay.
Paraty's sheltered bay, shallow and almost waveless in many spots, is a paradise for paddling. On a stand-up paddleboard or kayak, you move at your own pace, reach corners boats can't, and see marine life through the clear water — in silence.
The best places to paddle
- Saco do Mamanguá — the tropical fjord, ideal for long crossings between mangroves.
- Paraty-Mirim — a calm cove with historic ruins on the shore.
- Town beaches (Pontal, Jabaquara) — perfect for a first try.
- The bay's inner coves, sheltered from the wind.
For beginners
The calm water makes Paraty a great place to learn. Start at a sheltered beach, go in the morning (when the wind is lighter) and stay close to shore. Life vests and basic instruction are usually available where you rent the boards.
What to bring
Sunscreen, a hat, water and a dry bag for your phone. Wear clothes you don't mind soaking and footwear that stays on. And don't forget: paddling at dusk, with golden light on the bay, is one of Paraty's best experiences.
