Background

Guarita State Park: Coastal Towers and Natural Beauty

Explore dramatic cliffs, hike scenic trails, and surf the waves at Guarita State Park, a coastal paradise in southern Brazil.

4.8

Guarita State Park, officially named Parque Estadual José Lutzenberger, is a protected area in Torres, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. It's known for its dramatic coastal scenery, featuring towering cliffs and unique rock formations where the mountains meet the sea. The park offers hiking trails, beaches, and panoramic viewpoints, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and surfers alike.

A brief summary to Guarita State Park

  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early during peak season (December to May) to avoid crowds and secure parking.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails, which can be uneven in places.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as shade can be limited.
  • Check the surf conditions before heading to Guarita Beach for surfing.
  • Take your time to enjoy the panoramic views from the various overlooks within the park.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Praia da Cal, walk south along the Calçadão (boardwalk) towards the park entrance. The walk is approximately 1.5km and offers scenic views of the coastline. Pedestrians enter the park for free.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from the Torres bus station (Rodoviária de Torres) towards Praia da Guarita. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information. The bus will drop you off near the park entrance. Bus fare is approximately R$4-5.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From the center of Torres, a taxi or ride-share to Guarita State Park costs approximately R$20-30, depending on traffic. The ride is about 5-10 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare before starting your trip.

  • Driving

    From downtown Torres, follow the main road (Calçadão Praia da Cal) south towards Guarita State Park. Parking is available at the park entrance for a fee: R$20 for cars during high season and R$10 during low season. Parking for motorcycles is R$10 (high season) and R$5 (low season). Vehicles registered in Torres are exempt from parking fees.

Unlock the Best of Guarita State Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Guarita State Park

Guarita State Park, also known as Parque Estadual José Lutzenberger, is a captivating blend of geological wonder and coastal charm in Torres, Rio Grande do Sul. Established in 1971, the park protects a unique landscape where mountains descend to the South Atlantic Ocean, creating a dramatic meeting point of land and sea. The park's name, 'Guarita,' refers to the tower-like rock formations that dominate the coastline, remnants of ancient volcanic activity dating back 180 million years. Visitors can explore the park's diverse trails, leading to panoramic viewpoints that showcase the stunning contrast between the basalt cliffs and the ocean. Guarita Beach, nestled within the park, is a haven for surfers due to its strong waves and natural beauty. The park is also an important geosite within the Geoparque Cânions do Sul project. The park's landscape was originally designed by Roberto Burle Marx, a renowned Brazilian architect. The park was renamed in 2003 to honor José Lutzenberger, an environmentalist who championed its creation. Guarita State Park offers a memorable experience, blending natural beauty, geological significance, and recreational opportunities.

Popular Experiences near Guarita State Park

Popular Hotels near Guarita State Park

Select Currency