Tourism

Situated on the south coast of the São Paulo state, between the cities of Mongaguá and Peruíbe, Itanhaém is one of the oldest Brazilian cities and a popular travel destination, thanks to its natural beauty and historical significance. Its name has an indigenous origin, from the dialect tupi-guarani, meaning "Rock that Sings ", probably because of the resulting sound of the wind blowing between the two rocky mounts at Morro do Paranambuco.

Itanhaém stretches along 26 km of beautiful beaches: Itanhaém; Conchas; Enseada; Gruta; Saudade; Cibratel; Pescadores; Sonhos, and Tombo. The city occupies 599.017 km2, with more than 300km2 featuring well preserved natural vegetation: Mata Atlântica, across the woods of the Serra do Mar, of the Mata da Restinga, and of the wetlands of Manguezais.

Have a look at some of the City’s Attractions:

Cama de Anchieta (Anchieta’s Bed)
This is one of the most visited places in the city. It’s a flat rocky formation, engraved between the rocky cost of Praia dos Sonhos and the sea. Its flatten aspect with a discrete inclination at the left side gave origin to a legend, which says that, during his visits to Conceição de Itanhaém, a famous priest, Father José de Anchieta, used to rest there, hoping to become inspired and have a revelation. It is believed that this might have influenced his famous Poem of the Virgin. Many trails lead there, but we recommend caution, because the rocks are very slip. Mind your step, while there.

Convento de Nossa Senhora da Conceição (Convent of Our Lady Conception)
The construction of this Convent by the Franciscans remounts the XV century. Since then, it became the most important symbol of faith and hope of the people of Itanhaém. A steep hillside will take you to its strategic location, at the top of Itaguassú Mount, from which may enjoy the city landscape.

Morro do Paranambuco (Paranambuco Mont)
The Morro do Paranambuco (or Pernambuco) is the last elevation of the coast located between the beaches Praia dos Pescadores and Cibratel. Besides it, the nearest rock formation is located in Juréia, in the city of Peruíbe. This Mont has suffered with a devastation process that altered its characteristics. It still features, however, a pack of rocks that once were covered in dirt, known as Pedra da Esfinge (Sphinx’s Rock). It sits right after Praia dos Sonhos. A small bay at the foot at the mountain, formed by medium and large size rocks, was named Pocinho de Anchieta (Anchieta’s little well), which according to a legend, was build by some native Indians, under the instruction of Jesuits, in order to imprison the fish during the high tide.

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes (Gruta de Nossa Senhora de Lourdes)
This grotto was build by followers of the Saint in 1970. It soon became a pilgrimage center. Every 11th day of the month, a mass in honor of Our Lady of Lourdes is celebrated at the site. Located at the beautiful bay of Praia dos Sonhos, this is a perfect spot for meditation too.