there are two entrances to the bay via the ocean, one on the west side facing the ilha da marambaia, and one smaller one closer to the center of rio, in the neighborhood of barra de guaratiba.

in 1993 the shore of sepetiba bay was declared an 'área de especial interesse ambiental' (area of special environmental interest), formalizing the protection granted to local flora and fauna, specifically to promote the survival of endangered species and the restoration of the local mangroves and forests.

home to a great number of tiny tropical islands, sepetiba bay is a popular spot to go on island hopping fishing tours.