10 paradisiacal beaches in northern Brazil that you need to know about
The north-east of Brazil is a paradise, with a unique beauty and diversity that attracts both Brazilian and foreign tourists. In particular, its beaches in the north of Brazil offer dreamlike landscapes with crystal clear waters, white sand and a unique atmosphere of tranquillity. You may think it’s too expensive given the beauty of its scenery, but that’s not the case at all.
It’s important to remember that in northern Brazil the rainy season is in winter, between May and August, and it can rain occasionally. But it’s actually sunny most of the time, so you could say it’s high season all year round!
1. Caraíva
Nature and a lot of beauty to spend a few days and forget about the rest of the world in a place of peace and tranquillity. It is an area where there are no cars, nor is it possible to take them. If you have one, you will have to leave it in Caraíva Nova by the river and go by boat to the beach.
After the rest, the best plan is to discover the area. A little further north it is possible to visit the Satu beach, which has a lovely lake to cool off and recharge your batteries for further strolling.
For those who are even more adventurous (going to such an isolated place requires an adventurous spirit) you can have fun kayaking, diving in Corumbau or paragliding. But what guarantees the best moments with your fellow travellers is undoubtedly going down the river in special river floats – what great memories!
how much does it cost? If you go by car, parking at the border costs about 15 reais (almost €4) and the boat costs 5 reais (€1.25). From Porto Seguro you can take a taxi, although it is advisable to negotiate the price beforehand and ask for references of taxi drivers to make the journey that suits you best. Without negotiating the fare can be as much as 250 reais (about 63€). For lunch we recommend the northeastern delicacy, peixinho com pirão, which is battered and fried fish accompanied by porridge. For 30/50 reais (8/13€) you can eat well. At the Ondas Caraíva hostel you can stay for around 100 reais (€25) on average.
2. Praia do Espelho (Mirror Beach)
We continue very close. If you are in the south of Bahia you have to visit Praia do Espelho (Mirror Beach). Considered, and not only by me, as one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. The access is a bit difficult, if you go by car you will have to leave it in the parking area, but the views make up for everything.
Stunning cliffs, crystal clear waters and seafood to taste. Prices can be a little higher than in other areas, so going and coming back on the same day is ideal. As well as strolling, stop for a sunbath or a coconut water. The beach has a completely different atmosphere to the rest. And don’t forget to take lots of photos, you won’t want to forget every detail.
how much does it cost? The beach bars on the beach charge a minimum drink of about 60 reais (15€). You can also book a guided tour through an agency that includes a place to stay on the beach. You can stay nearby, in Arraial Dajuda, at the Adiós Amigos hostel, where a night costs between 55 and 140 reais (14/35€)
3. Praia do Forte (Fort Beach)
If you are familiar with the Temar project, aimed at caring for turtles, you probably know the beach as a flagship of that project. Nature conservation is a serious issue there. So much so that there is also the Baleia Jubarte Institute, which is part of the protection of this species.
In the ecological reserve of Sapiranga you can go walking, cycling and even horseback riding. The trails are well signposted and have flora that is difficult to see elsewhere. If you want something more extreme in the midst of this tranquillity, you can also rent a quad bike!
In the evening, the village is the place to eat, drink and listen to music, as well as souvenir shops where you can take a souvenir of north-eastern Brazil home with you.
how much does it cost? For food there is something to suit all budgets, from expensive dishes to the more affordable 20/40 reals. For accommodation the Hotel Praia do Forte has rooms for 90 reais.
4. Praia do Gunga
To talk about the Alagoas region is to have a huge list of paradisiacal beaches to visit. From the north to the south of the region you can find natural pools, clear and warm waters, good food and a wonderful welcome from the people of Alagoas.
The best thing to do at Gunga beach, first of all, is to relax and enjoy a wonderful day at the beach, either in the sea or in the salt water Lago do Roteiro. After getting to know the area, I highly recommend a carriage ride through the dunes and a visit to the viewpoint. There are also other interesting routes if you go by boat, leaving from Barra de São Miguel you can see corals and exotic fish.
There are plenty of kiosks and there is usually no minimum consumption, although you have to be careful and attentive, especially in high season and on weekends.
how much does it cost? The stalls at the Gunga offer food and drink at different prices. Depending on what you order, the bill can be between R$60 and R$180 (between €15 and €45). The good thing is that there is a variety to choose from. A good option for accommodation is further south at Brazuka Hostel, where you can share a room from 50 to 120 reais (€12.5 to €30).
5. Japaratinga
The north of Alagoas is also a must-visit place. The Alagoan coastline has many beaches, but Japaratinga has something special that won me over and it’s hard not to win anyone’s heart. Walking along Japaratinga is an unforgettable experience. As it is very close to Maragogi, the region has natural pools that are a marvel. You can go there in fishing boats and feel a little closer to the local culture. It is advisable to be informed before visiting the pools because they disappear when the sea is rough.
how much does it cost? The town offers very good prices. It is possible to enjoy local food for 13 to 20 reais (3 to 5€) per person. Japaratinga has the Casinha Hostel where you can rent a dorm for two people for 70 reais (€17.5).
6. Maragogi
We can’t leave aside the deservedly renowned Maragogi, the most coveted natural pools in the area. You should sign up in advance for this visit, as it is a natural reserve that must be protected. Arriving at the pools you will have the whole beach experience, with food and drinks in the water, surrounded by fish and corals, an ideal place to dive.
Observing all this beauty reminds us why the Brazilian Northeast is a paradise you will always want to return to.
how much does it cost? The walk to the pools costs 75 reais (19€) per person, shallow dives 15 reais (4€) and deeper dives 120 reais (30€). For accommodation, a good option is the Brazuka Hostel, with rooms from 50 reais (€12.5)
7. Porto de Galinhas (Hen harbour)
This is another spot in Brazil that everyone loves. Located in the region of Ipojuca, Porto de Galinhas has one of the most beautiful landscapes of the Northeast, combining nature, fun, especially in high season, and a relaxing climate. All in one. It is no coincidence that it has been named the most beautiful beach in Brazil many times.
Once on the main beach, it is possible to go to a nearby coral reef, but get there early as you have to take numbers to go in groups to visit them and they run out quickly. If you can, take the carriage ride that takes you to three different beaches and ends at the Maracaípe Point, inside a river, where you’ll see the most incredible sunset you could ever imagine.
how much does it cost? You can have a good meal for between 18 and 40 reais (4.5 and 10€). Che Lagarto is a good accommodation option that will cost you between 70 and 200 reais a night (17/50€).
8. Colhetas
Rocks, hills and a dazzling landscape. This is the hallmark of Praia de Calhetas, in Pernambuco. So close to Recife (capital of the Pernambuco region) and yet so quiet and unspoilt. For those who want to literally play in the sea, there are zip lines and a cable car that takes you down to the sand.
If you want to get to know the surroundings, you can take the trail to Gaibu beach. It is a good option to get there, stay in Porto de Galinhas and get to know everything in one go.
how much does it cost? The zip line costs 20 reais (5€) per person. For food and drink a person spends around 40 reais (€10). You can stay either in Porto de las Galinhas or in Recife, in the capital the Piratas da Praia Hostel costs between 48 and 155 reais (12/39€)
9. Praia da Pipa
The Rio Grande do Norte is home to an indescribable beauty. Paradisiacal, the Pipa beach is still a good place for people who want to surf, paddle, sandboard, among others. The beach is in the largest ecological sanctuary of the state and is also among the most beautiful beaches in Brazil.
If you don’t have the possibility to go by car, there are many other options: by boat, on foot, by bicycle, or even through travel agencies that take you there and back.
The beach receives many young people and during the high season there are many parties, but it is also possible to relax, enjoy the views and stroll through the beautiful hidden corners.
how much does it cost? Lunches at Pipa are around 50/70 reais (12’5/17’5€) per person. If you want to stay at the Lagarto na Banana hostel you can do so from 40 reais to 100 reais (€10/25)
10. Jericoacoara
Popular sayings usually exist for a reason, and in this case Jericoacoara has one that has been affectionately named by lovers of “Jeri”: everyone who goes to “Caerá” will want to know. A fishing village that welcomes people from all over the world.
The best way to get around the sandy streets is by carriage, which gives you the opportunity for a nice ride, as well as the option to go horseback riding. Extreme sports are also on offer. The carriage must be hired from the locals and with them it is possible to visit the beach of Tatajuba, for example.
The water is clear and warm, typical of the northeast. Nature is the best part of this area.
how much does it cost? Eating costs between 15 and 45 reais (4/12€) per person. Staying in a hostel is the best way to integrate with tourists coming from all over the world. For that, the Jericoacoara Hostel has prices between 40 and 110 reais (10/28€).
When it comes to the Northeast of Brazil, there is no shortage of places to visit. So, to economise and still do everything you would like to do, you have to do two things: talking to the locals is always a good strategy, especially to eat well and spend little, and the second is to plan your trip well, organising all the places you want to visit and taking advantage of the trip to discover many other charming places in this exciting region.
You might think that I am not very impartial because the Northeast is my favourite region of Brazil, but just go and confirm that these are 10 of the best beaches in Brazil. Each state in the country has its own particularities and, obviously, the cuisine will never let you down either, and joining travelling and eating well is always the best combo, isn’t it?
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