5 Destinations in Espírito Santo to Enjoy from the Sea to the Mountains

Located in the Southeast region of Brazil, Espírito Santo is a destination that surprises with its diversity. In a relatively small territory, the state gathers extensive beaches, charming villages, historic cities, mountains with mild climate, and a cuisine influenced by indigenous, African, and European cultures.

Convento da Penha: ponto turístico em Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brasil. (Ramon Buçard/Unsplash/Divulgação)

Still little explored by many tourists, Espírito Santo is ideal for those seeking authentic experiences, good infrastructure, and landscapes that vary between the coast and the mountains. Below, we have gathered five must-visit destinations for those who want to get to know the state better and create a balanced itinerary between nature, culture, and relaxation.

1. Vitória

Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brasil. (Pexels/Divulgação)

The capital Vitória is the natural starting point for those visiting the state. Located on an island, the city combines urban beaches, green areas, and an active cultural life. Camburi Beach is one of the most well-known, ideal for walking and outdoor sports. The historic center retains important buildings and interesting views of the bay.

Vitória, Espírito Santo (Diego Flores/Divulgação)

Vitória is also known for its gastronomy, especially dishes made with seafood, such as the traditional moqueca capixaba, prepared without palm oil and using clay pots. Modern and organized, the capital offers good hotel infrastructure and easy access to other destinations in Espírito Santo.

2. Vila Velha

Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brasil. (Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)

Neighboring the capital, Vila Velha is famous for its beaches and for housing one of the main symbols of the state: the Convento da Penha. Situated on top of a hill, the sanctuary offers an impressive panoramic view of the metropolitan area.

Vila Velha, Espírito Santo, Brasil, vista a partir do Convento da Penha. (HVL/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)

The beaches of Itapuã and Praia da Costa are quite busy, with kiosks, bike lanes, and a lively promenade. Vila Velha is ideal for those seeking sun, sea, and urban tours, in addition to being strategically located to integrate an itinerary with Vitória and Guarapari.

3. Guarapari

Guarapari, Espírito Santo, Brasil. (Rosanetur/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)

Known nationally as a vacation destination, Guarapari is famous for its monazitic sand beaches and clear waters. The city has more than 50 beaches, ranging from busy urban stretches to quieter havens surrounded by vegetation. Among the best-known are Praia do Morro and Praia das Castanheiras.

Praia das Castanheiras em Guarapari, Espírito Santo, Brasil. (Diego Baravelli/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)

Besides beach tourism, Guarapari offers a good range of restaurants, hotels, and options for boat trips. It is a versatile destination that appeals to both families and travelers seeking relaxation by the sea.

4. Domingos Martins

Domingos Martins, Espírito Santo, Brasil. (Rômulo Gama Ferreira/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)

For those who prefer mountain climates and green landscapes, Domingos Martins is an excellent choice. Located in the mountainous region, the city has a strong influence from German colonization, visible in its architecture, gastronomy, and typical festivals. The milder climate attracts visitors throughout the year, especially in winter.

Pedra do Lagarto em Domingos Martins, Espírito Santo, Brasil. (Vilamir Azevedo/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)

The region is surrounded by natural areas, trails, and viewpoints, and serves as the gateway to the Pedra Azul State Park. Domingos Martins is ideal for those seeking tranquility, contact with nature, and cultural experiences.

5. Itaúnas

Praia de Itaúnas em Conceição da Barra, Espírito Santo, Brasil. (Eduardo Magalhães Pontara/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)

At the northernmost tip of the state, Itaúnas is a unique destination. The village is known for its dunes, preserved beaches, and strong cultural traditions, especially the forró pé de serra. Part of the territory is integrated into a state park, ensuring well-preserved natural landscapes.

Dunas de Itaúnas em Conceição da Barra, Espírito Santo, Brasil. (Lemoris/Wikimedia Commons/Divulgação)

Itaúnas attracts both those seeking peace and those who enjoy music and simple nightlife, with bars and live performances. It is an ideal destination to slow down, walk through the dunes, and enjoy a more rustic and authentic side of Espírito Santo.

CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the Technology team of CASACOR based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text has been edited by Yeska Coelho.