For our guests
Getting to São Sebastião
São Sebastião is a beautiful coastal city on the shores of São Paulo state — stunning beaches, Atlantic Forest, and Ilha Bela visible right across the water.
The Journey
From Ireland, the trip takes roughly 17–19 hours door to door; from South Africa, around 15–17 hours. Here’s how to get there.
Step 1
Fly to São Paulo
Fly into Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) — São Paulo’s main international hub.
From Europe: flights from Lisbon (TAP) or London (LATAM/British Airways) often have the best connections.
From South Africa: both South African Airways and LATAM offer direct flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to São Paulo.
Step 2
GRU → São Sebastião
From the arrival halls at GRU airport, you can either: hire a car rental, book a private transfer (more info below), take the bus to São Sebastião or take a ride with us (we will be going to São Sebastião on Wednesday April 28th).
Tip: buy your coach ticket at the bus station kiosk inside the terminal, or book in advance online.
Private transfers we've arranged — contact them directly to book: Thiago Vieira +55 12 99190-5373 · Transline Tour Litoral +55 12 97403-4255.
Step 3
Arriving at the Venue
Espaço Abricó is located at Praia do Arrastão, about 12 km south of São Sebastião town centre along the SP-055 coastal road. Uber operates very conveniently in this area. On the wedding day, there will be a shuttle bus leaving Hotel Abricó to the venue (time TBC).
Tip: save the address — Rod. Dr. Manoel Hipólito do Rêgo, 2354, Praia do Arrastão — in Google Maps before you travel.
Where to Stay
We have partnered with Abricó Beach Hotel, where we will be staying with our family. Just 2 km from the venue, and there are plenty of great options nearby. Book early — May is a popular month on the coast.
Partner Hotel
Abricó Beach Hotel
Our official partner hotel, where we will be staying with our family — only 2 km from Espaço Abricó. Use the discount code BRUNAECHRIS10 when booking.
Hotel
Hotel Arrastão
Right by Praia do Arrastão, just minutes from the venue — a convenient and comfortable option for the wedding weekend.
Hotel
Hotel Recanto dos Pássaros
Another great option close to the venue, in the Arrastão area of São Sebastião.
Other options in the area include Airbnb and a wide range of accommodation on Booking.com — look for the Arrastão, Caraguatatuba, or São Sebastião town areas to keep travel distances short.
Explore the Region
São Sebastião has over 30 beaches, the Serra do Mar Atlantic Forest, and Ilhabéla island visible just across the water. Here are our favourites.
Praia do Arrastão
Right beside the venue — a peaceful stretch of sand with calm water and beautiful views of Ilhabéla. Perfect for a morning swim before the wedding.
Praia das Maresias
One of the most famous beaches in Brazil — world-class surf, vibrant beach bars, and a buzzing nightlife scene. About 40 km south of the venue.
Ilhabéla (Day Trip)
The tropical island you can see from the beach. Take the ferry from São Sebastião town (20 min, runs 24/7) for 73 beaches, waterfalls, and Atlantic Forest trails.
Praia de Boiçucanga
Calm, sheltered waters and a relaxed family atmosphere. A local favourite for swimming and paddling, about 30 km south.
Serra do Mar — Trails
Lush Atlantic Forest trails with incredible biodiversity, waterfalls, and panoramic coastal views. Guides available in São Sebastião.
Sailing & Boat Trips
The sheltered bay between São Sebastião and Ilhabéla is perfect for sailing. Boat hire and guided excursions are easy to arrange locally.
Practical Tips
Book accommodation early
May is late autumn in Brazil — warm, less rain, and still popular. Book at least 3–6 months in advance, especially near Praia do Arrastão.
Weather in May
Average temperatures of 24–28°C. Light rain is possible but May is generally one of the best months to visit the São Paulo coast.
Getting around
Taxis wait at the bus terminal. Uber works throughout São Sebastião. Car hire is also a great option to explore the coast at your own pace.
Currency
The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Most restaurants and hotels accept cards, but bring some cash for beach kiosks and small vendors.
Language
Portuguese is the language of Brazil. English is spoken in most hotels and tourist spots, but a few words in Portuguese are always warmly received!