A Coffee-Infused Start in Santos

The day began with the sun casting its golden glow over the city of Santos, a place that seemed to hum with the promise of adventure. As a professional surfer, I’ve always been drawn to the ocean, but this time, it was the allure of history and culture that beckoned me. Our first stop was the Coffee Museum, a historic gem nestled in the heart of Santos. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, mingling with the salty sea breeze. I savored a cup of the rich, dark brew, letting its warmth seep into my bones as our guide, Mauricio, regaled us with tales of the city’s past. The museum itself was a testament to the architectural grandeur of the early 20th century, and I found myself lost in its stories, much like the waves I often chase.

The tram tour that followed was a delightful jaunt through the historic district. In just 20 minutes, we were whisked past charming colonial buildings and vibrant street art, each corner revealing a new facet of Santos’ rich tapestry. It was a refreshing change of pace from the usual surf spots I frequent, and I relished the opportunity to soak in the local culture.

Soaring Above It All

The highlight of the day, however, was yet to come. After a brief visit to the Pele Museum, where the spirit of Brazil’s football legend seemed to linger in the air, we made our way to the beach. The anticipation was palpable as we boarded the lift chair, ascending to the top of Morro do Itararé Mountain. The view from the summit was nothing short of breathtaking, a sweeping panorama of the coastline that stretched as far as the eye could see.

And then, the moment I’d been waiting for: parasailing. As someone who thrives on the thrill of the ocean, the idea of soaring above it was irresistible. The wind whipped through my hair as I took flight, the world below shrinking to a patchwork of blues and greens. It was a dance with the sky, a moment of pure, unadulterated freedom that left me exhilarated and craving more.

A Taste of Guarujá

The adventure didn’t end there. Our journey continued as we boarded a car ferry to Guarujá, a vibrant beach town that seemed to pulse with life. We indulged in a sumptuous lunch by the sea, the flavors of fresh seafood mingling with the tang of salt in the air. It was a feast for the senses, a reminder of the simple pleasures that make life so sweet.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we strolled along the beach, the sand warm beneath our feet. The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the water, and I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of contentment. This was the essence of the nomadic surfer lifestyle I cherished—exploring new places, embracing the unknown, and finding joy in the journey.

As we made our way back to São Paulo, I reflected on the day’s adventures. The Santos Beach Tour had been a delightful detour from my usual surf-centric travels, a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you least expect. And as always, the ocean was there, a constant companion in my ever-changing world.