Located in the Northern part of Rio de Janeiro State, S?o Jo?o da Barra is a city of beautiful beaches and important historical heritage. Throughout its 32 km of coastline, on will find the beaches of Grussa?, Atafona, Chap?u do Sol, and Barra do A?u. Grussa? beach is the most sought after by tourists and its region has plenty of hotels and bars. In Atafona Beach one will find the ruins of the Pontal de Atafona and a large delta (the second largest in the country) right where the Para?ba do Sul River meets the sea. Barra do A?u beach is largely used for hook and network fishing activities, for its calm waters.
The natural heritage of the city also includes mangroves. The mangroves of the Para?ba River exhibit woody vegetation, with leafy branches and roots and, contrary to what one might imagine, exude a pleasant scent.
The city also boasts material wealth. A highlight is the Cine Teatro S?o Jo?o, opened in 1906 in a classic style. The building was restored and preserves its dated furniture. It has 200 seats, good sound system, and modern bathrooms, which are suitable for people with special needs. From the same period is the old Town Market, which now houses the Narcisa Amalia Cultural Center. Built in 1902 and restored in 1992, the space has a small stage and a fountain in the courtyard in imperial style.
Other examples are the Old Town Hall and Jail, built in 1797, which was renovated and is now the John Oscar Pinto do Amaral Cultural Center, and the Derly Machado Station of Arts, a space dedicated to arts and craft that occupies the building of the former train station of the city, built by the Leopoldina Railway Company in the early twentieth century.
