Travessia Areia Preta × Peracanga

On the morning of the Travessia Areia Preta × Peracanga, the waterfront of Guarapari transforms into a collective ritual of early-season preparation. Swimmers gather while the town is still waking up, exchanging tips on the currents between the two beaches. Organized by Vibe Positiva Sports, the event has become a staple for those testing their readiness for the year ahead, drawing a loyal crowd that returns to these specific coastal stretches every January. The atmosphere is defined by this local rhythm, where the camaraderie among regulars often outweighs the intensity of the race itself.

The coastal landscape

As you navigate the stretch between Areia Preta and Peracanga, the shoreline offers a distinct perspective of Guarapari’s geography. To the north, the profile of the Morro da Pescaria dominates the view; this hill, a vital outpost of the Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve, serves as a constant orientation point for those pushing toward the turn. The water here feels connected to the history of the region. The name 'Guarapari' itself is rooted in Tupi, where 'guará' represents the scarlet ibis and 'pari' describes the traditional branch-made traps used by indigenous peoples to catch fish in the mangroves. This heritage is mirrored in the nearby Concha d'Ostra reserve, which protects the bay’s vital mangrove ecosystems, maintaining the environmental health that supports the local marine life you traverse.

Race day experience

Whether you are competing in the shorter 100m sprint or the challenging 8000m distance, the experience is framed by the rock formations characteristic of the local coast. The Três Praias area, with its sheltered coves and rocky outcrops, provides a visual backdrop of greenish, transparent water that is common to this specific sector of Espírito Santo. While this event sets its own pace, those looking to build their calendar often look toward the Copa Brasil de Águas Abertas for further challenges in the region later in the year. The natural radioactivity of the monazite sands—a byproduct of the waves grinding down the coastal mountains—adds a unique geologic character to the beaches where you start and finish your swim. You remain in open water, navigating the currents that have shaped this coastline for centuries, tracing the same path that long served as a hub for local fishing and maritime activity.