The town contains an Area of Environmental Protection (Forest of Casqueiro) in which the flora and fauna is of the Tropical Alanatic Forest (Mata Alantica).

The population has grown in recent years principally after the work carried out on the beach and waterfront.

Several shows occur in the town including New Year and Carnival, organised by the local district council.

The town was to be the site of the Popes World Youth Day Field of Faith Mass but after extensive work and considerable cost it was moved at the last moment to Copacabana beach due to the heavy rains in Pedra de Guaratiba.

This Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil location article is a stub.