Guarujá, Brazil

With a population of just 210,207, Guarujá is a crowded, touristy beach town that's hardly the tranquil coastal escape many São Paulo residents seek. The seasonal influx of visitors brings heavy traffic jams and a persistent bureaucracy that can be a headache for newcomers. While the city boasts 27 beaches, the most famous are dominated by high-rise buildings catering to the summer crowd. Guarujá's economy is heavily reliant on tourism and port activities, offering limited opportunities outside of these industries. Overall, this island municipality is best suited for those seeking an affordable weekend getaway, not a long-term home.