the shores of the sepetiba bay are characterized by the mangrove fields which feature incredible biological diversity.

the most important are located on the southern edge, where the 'reserva biologica e arquelógica de guaratiba' (biologial and archeological reserve of guaratiba) was created.

also of note is the importance of the fishing activity for the local population.

this region is home to the 'base aérea de santa cruz' (santa cruz airbase), which possesses the iconic airship hangar, a large concrete structure built between 1934 and 1936.