Parati

Advantages: Nature is well preserved
Disadvantages: I do not know

Parati is the name of an area where you can find historic monuments, both private houses and churches, and nice beaches. I was invited to join a group of Brazilians to Praia do Jabaquara, which I am happy to recommend. The beach is very big and the water is not too deep, so you can either swim or just walk in. I believe on all beaches in this area you find small bars and restaurants by the sea. The food was good, may be not as cheap as I would have ... Read review

Advantages: Nice beaches
Disadvantages: A bit expensive

Parati is a very popular holiday resort. When I visited it, I ended up staying with a party of Chileans I had met on the bus. Although there are quite a few historic monuments from its colonial past, the main reason for going there seems to be the beaches and the night life. It is not difficult to find a nice beach, although during the Brazilian summer you may want to stay clear of some of the most crowded beaches. I was supposed to return to Parati ...
...the famous ciranda dance. I did not manage to, though. If you can afford more than $100 for a room, then you should try Pousada Pandeiro. I did not stay there personally, but some friends of our party were and the experience is definitively worth its money, if you have them ... Read review