Framed by a quaint church, dense thickets of lush vegetation and the homes of retired fishermen, Ossos Beach is a pretty sandy stretch with an intriguing history. Its name is Portuguese for Bones Beach, in reference to the whale hunting that took place here in the early 1700s. Watch the fishermen at work to get a sense of the traditions and customs of the area.
Rent a deckchair and umbrella to enjoy a view of the blue-green Atlantic Ocean and listen to the soothing sounds of gentle waves lapping the shoreline. Capture photos of the bucolic setting, edged by rolling green terrain.
Overlooking the southern flank of the beach is the 18th-century Sant’Anna Church, whose base offers wonderful views of Ossos Beach. Spot the range of colorful sailboats and schooners that decorate the sparkling bay. Inspect some of the impressive works of art that line the walls of the nave within this whitewashed ecclesiastical gem of colonial design. Stay overnight at one of the colonial inns or charming posadas in the vicinity.
Stroll along the length of the sandy strand and beachcomb with your family for aquatic treasures. Admire the bright façades of the restored homes of fishermen that adorn the hills at the back of the beach. Take a leisurely stroll on the woodland trails at the northern point of the beach that lead to Azeda Beach and Azedinha Beach. You can also ride a water taxi to get around the various beaches and islands in this region.
Ossos Beach is in the northeastern corner of the headland containing Búzios. Drive northeast from the heart of the town for 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) to get to the beach within 15 minutes. See nearby sights in the area, including the Juscelino Kubitschek Statue, the Veleiro Port Buzios and Ossos Lagoon.