Use this administrative seat as a good starting point for exploring the attractions of the city away from its famous beaches.
Arraial do Cabo Municipal City Hall (Prefeitura de Arraial do Cabo) is the governmental headquarters of Arraial do Cabo. It houses the offices of the city council, is responsible for the maintenance of the city and helps in the organization and sponsorship of public events. Visit Arraial do Cabo Municipal City Hall to see a snapshot of the city’s civic life and to browse exhibitions at an adjacent cultural centre.
The building is instantly recognizable for the row of wide brick columns that run along the façade. During business hours you’ll see employees arriving for work and locals running errands. Street vendors set up outside and offer light snacks and refreshments.
Next door, and housed in a building with the same architectural style, is the Manoel Camargo Cultural. Centre. Its major highlight is a collection of artwork by Manoel Camargo and artifacts that showcase the city’s fishing traditions. There’s also a hall for rotating exhibitions by regional artists, a space for handicraft fairs, a library and an amphitheatre for live music and theatre. The centre is open from Monday to Friday.
Arraial do Cabo Municipal City Hall is just 5 minutes by foot from the central bus terminal. Parking is possible on the street outside the building, although spaces usually fill up fast, especially during business hours. A short walk to the north is Avenida Governador Leonel de Moura Brizola, a busy commercial street that connects the downtown district with the port area. Along the street you will find bars, cafés and restaurants, hotels, retail outlets and tour operators.
A visit to Arraial do Cabo Municipal City Hall and Manoel Camargo Cultural Centre offers a different perspective of Arraial do Cabo. The coastline is never far away, though, when you want to beachcomb, sunbathe and swim in perfect turquoise waters. Closest to the city centre are Dos Anjos Beach and Grande Beach. Boa Viste Lookout affords a magnificent view of the sprawling Grande Beach.
