Baía do Sancho is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Nestled on the island of Fernando de Noronha off the northeastern coast of Brazil, this secluded paradise is a place of turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and unspoiled nature. For those who make the journey, Baía do Sancho offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines raw natural beauty with a profound sense of isolation and tranquility.

The setting and arrival

Reaching Baía do Sancho is part of what makes it so special. The beach is located within a protected marine national park and is accessible only through a series of steep staircases built into the rock or by boat. Visitors arriving by land must first pass through lush vegetation and then descend vertical ladders through narrow rock crevices, followed by a staircase leading down the cliffs to the golden sand below. While the descent may seem daunting, it creates an immediate sense of adventure and rewards visitors with one of the most stunning coastal views imaginable.

From above, the bay is framed by steep green cliffs that give way to a perfect crescent of fine sand and crystal-clear water. It feels entirely removed from the modern world, a hidden gem cradled by nature.

The beach and water

Once on the beach, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. The sand is soft and warm, backed by towering cliffs covered in dense tropical vegetation. The water shifts in color from emerald green near the shore to deep blue as it extends toward the horizon. Gentle waves lap at the beach, and visibility in the water is ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

Baía do Sancho is part of a marine reserve, and this protection has preserved its underwater life. Snorkelers can encounter sea turtles, colorful fish, stingrays and even small reef sharks. Dolphins are frequently seen just offshore, and between January and July, the beach becomes a nesting ground for sea turtles, adding another layer of wonder to the visit.

The island of Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago of volcanic origin, with Baía do Sancho being its crown jewel. The island itself is sparsely populated and strictly regulated to maintain ecological balance. Entry is controlled, with a limited number of tourists allowed at any one time, and visitors must pay an environmental preservation fee. These efforts contribute to the pristine condition of the beach and surrounding area.

The island offers more than just Baía do Sancho. Hiking trails, natural pools, and other stunning beaches make it a dream destination for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers. Surfing, diving and wildlife watching are all popular activities, and the entire island has a laid-back atmosphere far removed from Brazil’s urban centers.

Conservation and responsible tourism

Preservation is a core theme in any visit to Baía do Sancho. Visitors are encouraged to respect all guidelines, avoid bringing plastics, and leave no trace. There are no food vendors or commercial facilities on the beach, and this absence of infrastructure is intentional. The goal is to protect the unique ecosystem that makes the beach so extraordinary.

Tourism here is low-impact by design. Guided tours often include environmental education, and local authorities monitor access to ensure that the ecosystem remains undisturbed. This model of sustainable tourism is part of what allows Baía do Sancho to continue receiving accolades without suffering the damage seen in many over-visited coastal areas.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Baía do Sancho depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. From August to December, the sea is calm, making it perfect for snorkeling and swimming. From January to July, higher waves attract more marine life, and it is also the turtle nesting season. The dry season, which runs from August to February, offers the most sunshine and clearer skies, ideal for photography and outdoor exploration.