Things To Do
in Colares
Colares is a picturesque coastal town located in the northern region of Brazil, known for its stunning beaches and lush tropical landscape. The town is famous for its intriguing UFO sightings in the late 1970s, sparking international interest. Colares offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Visitors can also discover the local culture, delicious cuisine, and friendly hospitality of the people in Colares.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Enjoy some leisure time on the beach, soaking up the sun.
Indulge in fresh seafood for lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Spend the afternoon swimming or taking part in water sports.
Watch the sunset while strolling along the shoreline. Have dinner at a seaside grill and enjoy the soothing ocean sounds.
Rise early for a hike in the stunning nearby hills. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the beautiful landscapes.
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Explore more trails and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
Return to your accommodation and relax. Grab a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant, reflecting on your day of adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Unique local cuisine, especially seafood
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Access to outdoor activities like hiking and water sports
- Limited access to major amenities and services
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities
- Mosquitoes and other insects can be problematic in certain seasons
- Higher crime rates in certain areas
Best Activities in Colares
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the Serra de Sintra National Park, which offers stunning views, lush forests, and a variety of wildlife.
Enjoy a relaxing day at the sandy shores of Praias das Maçãs, where you can sunbathe, swim, and taste local seafood at beachside restaurants.
Experience the thrill of surfing at Praia Grande, known for its excellent waves and surf schools for all skill levels.
Visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, for breathtaking coastal views and scenic hiking trails.
Participate in wine tasting tours at nearby vineyards, where you can sample regional wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Rent a bike and explore the picturesque countryside of Colares, with routes that take you through scenic landscapes and charming villages.
Tours
Uncover the best of Colares with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Colares
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular beach known for its stunning sunset views and dramatic cliffs, perfect for capturing picturesque coastal photographs.
The westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged cliffs, ideal for landscape photography.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with lush landscapes, waterfalls, and viewpoints that provide incredible backdrops for nature photography.
A beautiful stretch of sandy beach with wide-open views of the ocean, perfect for capturing dynamic skies and coastal scenery.
A colorful and romantic castle perched on a hill, offering both architectural photography opportunities and sweeping views of the surrounding area.
An exotic palace with stunning gardens and architecture, providing unique photo opportunities both inside and out.
An ancient castle that offers elevated viewpoints over Sintra and the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing historical and scenic photographs.
One of the most secluded beaches in Portugal, known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, best accessed for stunning seaside photography.
Food in Colares
Colares Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, peppers, and local spices. Best enjoyed at Restaurante do Antoninho, overlooking the stunning Praia Grande beach.
Must-Try!
Crabmeat mixed with coconut milk, onions, and breadcrumbs, then baked in crab shells. Try this savory delight at Bar do Armando for an authentic taste of Colares.
A hearty chicken and okra stew, a popular comfort food at many local eateries like Cantina da Tia Matilde, where it’s served with a side of fluffy white rice.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Colares better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a foodie's paradise, offering a variety of fresh fruits, regional cheeses, and handcrafted delicacies. Don't miss the pastéis – crispy, deep-fried savory pastries filled with cheese, meat, or shrimp.
The beachside food stalls at Praia Grande offer a wide array of grilled seafood, including succulent skewered prawns and grilled fish, served with zesty lime and chili sauces.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Colares, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Olá' or 'Bom dia' (Good morning). A handshake is common for initial meetings, but close friends may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek.
When dining in Colares, it is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. Additionally, expressing appreciation for the meal by saying 'Estava delicioso' (It was delicious) is a respectful gesture.
Although Colares has a laid-back atmosphere, it is important to dress neatly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites or attending formal events. Casual, yet tidy clothing is recommended.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Colares with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Colares
Ensure a smooth experience
In Colares, Brazil, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% to 15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. For hotel staff and taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or leaving small change is customary.
Payment practices in Colares typically include cash and credit or debit cards. Many establishments accept cards, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops or markets. Brazilian Reais (BRL) are the official currency, and foreign currency is usually not accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Colares.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer in Colares features warm temperatures and high humidity, making it a popular time for beachgoers. Expect vibrant local festivals, and opportunities for water sports. Crowds are larger during this season, especially around the holidays.
Autumn offers milder temperatures and less humidity, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local attractions. Rainfall decreases, and visitors can enjoy more pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
Winter in Colares is characterized by cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. It's a quieter season, making it perfect for those looking to avoid crowds. Visitors can expect lush green landscapes and opportunities to experience local culture without the hustle and bustle.
Spring brings warming temperatures and blooming landscapes. This season is a transition time that features occasional rain but also plenty of sunshine, making it a great time for sightseeing and enjoying nature. Fewer tourists are present, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Colares at Night
Hiking in Colares
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful beach located near Colares with stunning views and hiking trails leading down to the beach.
The westernmost point of mainland Europe offering dramatic cliffs and scenic walking paths.
A vast natural park with numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes through lush forests and stunning coastal views.
A hiking trail that features striking rock formations and breathtaking views of the coastline.
A scenic coastal trail that runs from Cascais to Estoril, perfect for a leisurely hike along the beach.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Colares through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Colares by plane.
Located approximately 50 km from Colares, GIG is the main international airport serving Rio de Janeiro, providing numerous international and domestic flights.
About 1,000 km from Colares, BSB is the international airport serving Brazil's capital, Brasília, with various international flight connections.
Located approximately 1,200 km from Colares, GRU is the busiest airport in Brazil and serves many international destinations.
Located about 700 km from Colares, CNF offers both domestic and international flights, serving the Belo Horizonte area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals with mixed racial background, often including Caucasian, African, and Indigenous ancestry.
Individuals who identify as white, typically of European descent.
Individuals who identify as black, primarily of African descent.
Indigenous people who are original inhabitants of Brazil and represent various ethnic groups.
Individuals who identify as yellow, often referring to those of Asian descent.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Colares, Brazil, as in most of the country, with many local teams and community games.
Colares is known for its beaches and surf spots, making surfing a popular activity among locals and visitors.
Beach volleyball is a common sport played on the sands of Colares, enjoyed by both residents and tourists.
This Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music is practiced in Colares.
Basketball has a growing fan base in Colares, with local courts available for community play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colares.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional cuisine in Colares is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes offer creative vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local dishes. A notable choice is Restaurante Vegetariano Sabor da Terra, known for its plant-based take on traditional Brazilian fare.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can savor authentic Brazilian flavors at Casa do Celso, which features a dedicated gluten-free menu with options like tapioca pancakes and yuca-based snacks.