Santos is about 31 km (19 mi) from the metropolis São Paulo, capital of the state São Paulo, which is also the most populous city in Brazil.

The municipality contains the Laje de Santos Marine State Park, created in 1993, the first marine park to be created by the state.

It is divided into two distinct geographic areas: the heavily urbanized island and the continental area, about 70% of which is protected.
The areas differ radically in terms of population, economy and geography.
Santos is about 31 km (19 mi) from the metropolis São Paulo, capital of the state São Paulo, which is also the most populous city in Brazil.
The municipality contains the Laje de Santos Marine State Park, created in 1993, the first marine park to be created by the state.
It is divided into two distinct geographic areas: the heavily urbanized island and the continental area, about 70% of which is protected. The areas differ radically in terms of population, economy and geography.
Santos, São Paulo