Tartaruga is one of the quieter beaches on the northern side of the peninsula, sheltered, calm, and surrounded by forested hillside. It is a favourite for snorkelling: the water is clear, the reef is accessible from shore, and the chances of seeing sea turtles are significantly better here than anywhere else in Búzios.
The beach is relatively small and there are no large restaurant complexes — just a few simpler barracas. This keeps the crowd manageable even in high season. Access is by car (limited parking) or a short taxi ride from the centre of town, which further filters the visitors who make it here. Most people who know Búzios well count Tartaruga among the two or three beaches they'd return to without hesitation.