Why Morro de São Paulo Is the Perfect Island Escape for Queer Travelers

There are beach towns — and then there’s Morro de São Paulo. A tiny island off the coast of Brazil, it feels like the place you end up when your soul decides you need to unplug, unwind, and remember what joy feels like. I got off the boat and started singing "Little Town" by Beauty in the beast" (yes, I was that gay), but if you saw the center, you would to- it gives that vibe to the T.

There are no cars in Morro — just sandy streets, barefoot wandering, and boats gliding in the distance. And while it’s not explicitly known as a queer destination, I felt deeply safe, welcomed, and free to just exist. That alone made it magic.

What Makes It Special:

• The sunsets? Wild.

• The beach walks? Therapeutic.

• The locals? Kind and open.
  

It’s the kind of place where people ask where you’re from, offer you fresh fruit, and invite you to beach parties that feel like they’re out of a dream.

Queer Vibes: While Morro doesn’t have a massive LGBTQ+ scene, it doesn’t need one. The energy is laid back, and you can be visibly queer without side eyes or questions. Everywhere I walked I saw lesbian couples, which added to the comfort and safe energy in the air.

Best Airbnb: My stay at the Jungle Studio Retreat made it all the more special — I was there for one night before switching to a larger suite that I do a run through on IG. (I might write a blog about it too)

Pro Tips:

• Bring bug spray and your comfiest sandals- Deangue fever is the WORST- you do not want to get it. Speaking from experience.

• You’ll want cash, most places takes cards/tap- but should something happen I didn't see a place to pull money out easily.

• Be ready to walk — and sweat a little. Theres tiny hills you'll be going up and down.
  

Final Take: Morro is for slow mornings, hammocks, unexpected friends, and spiritual soft resets. Whether you’re going solo, with bae, or just escaping a burnout spiral — this little island has something for you.