Lagarto na Banana

Renowned for having some of Brazil’s best beaches (quite a claim in a country with a world-famous coastline) Pipa is a spectacular spot for sun, sand and surf. Once a serene fishing village, Pipa was discovered by the surfing community and now welcomes a mix of local and international visitors to this sun-kissed corner of Brazil’s northeast coast. You can explore deserted white-sand beaches with swaying palms, lush vegetation and pink cliffs – a slice of tropical paradise.

In a place where natural beauty is everywhere, you can connect with the wildlife in a Pipa hostel surrounded by rainforest – expect occasional visits from iguanas and small monkeys. There are places with swimming pools, communal chill-out areas, free breakfasts and barbecues, while some hostels in Pipa offer extras like yoga classes, films and jungle parties. Or you can try somewhere that simply invites guests to swing in a hammock in the breeze off the ocean.

Praça do Pescador (Fisherman's Square) is Pipa’s main square; overlooking Praia do Centro, the main beach, it's close to shops and restaurants and is a good place to get your bearings. If you can’t wait to feel the sand between your toes, you can head down to Praia do Centro and paddle in the shallow water. Praia do Amor (Love Beach), named for the heart shape its natural pools form at low tide, is one of the main spots for surfing, with places to rent surfboards and hit the waves.

Take a boat trip to discover the other beaches along the shore and for a view of the tropical landscape you’ve been unwinding in. Back on land, a beach buggy trip or sandboarding down dunes will get the adrenaline pumping. Close to town, the Santuário Ecológico de Pipa has 16 walking trails through native Mata Atlântica rainforest; between January and June, you'll be able to see turtles and their hatchlings. 

You can explore Pipa’s compact centre and its closest beaches on foot, or hire a dune buggy for a quicker tour of the sands. The nearest international airport is Aeroporto de Natal, 75km away. The airport receives flights from all over Brazil and direct flights from Lisbon in Portugal. It's about a one-hour drive to Pipa from the airport, with taxis and shared shuttle services available. It's also possible to reach Pipa via bus, with several buses a day departing from Natal.