Brazil has a claim to a coastline that stretches 7,000 kilometers in length and full of beautiful beaches from north to south. However, the majority of these beaches are actually located in the northeast of the country, a region in which each state has beaches and coastline, giving you an abundance of beaches to choose from!
This means that the Brazilian northeast has beaches for all tastes and ages, from those with calm, paradisical settings to those wild ones with great waves for surfing.
So if you’re planning your next getaway or have ever wondered what beach to visit in Brazil northeast, check out this list to find one to add to your itinerary!
Table of Contents
- 1 What are the 20 best & most beautiful beaches in Northeast Brazil?
- 1.1 1. Praia dos Carneiros (“Ram Beach”) – Tamandaré, Pernambuco
- 1.2 2. Cabo Branco (“White Cape”) – João Pessoa, Paraíba
- 1.3 3. Jericoacoara – Jijoca de Jericoacoara, Ceará
- 1.4 4. Pontal de Maracaípe – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
- 1.5 5. Praia de Canoa Quebrada (“Broken Canoe Beach”) – Aracati, Ceará
- 1.6 6. Praia do Gunga (“Swing Beach”) – Roteiro, Alagoas
- 1.7 7. Praia de Macapá – Luís Correia, Piauí
- 1.8 8. Praia do Forte (“Fort Beach”) – Mata de São João, Bahia
- 1.9 9. Praia do Saco – Estância, Sergipe
- 1.10 10. Praia de Muro Alto (“High Wall Beach”) – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
- 1.11 11. Praia do Panaquatira – São José de Ribamar, Maranhão
- 1.12 12. Praia de Genipabu – Extremuz, Rio Grande do Norte
- 1.13 13. Porto de Galinhas (“Hen Port”) – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
- 1.14 14. Praia de Igarapé Grande (“Big Stream Beach”) – Turiaçu, Maranhão
- 1.15 15. Praia de Maragogi – Maragogi, Alagoas
- 1.16 16. Tambaba – Conde, Paraíba
- 1.17 17. Praia das Dunas (“Dune Beach”) – Estância, Sergipe
- 1.18 18. Praia do Francês (“The Frenchman’s Beach”) – Marechal Deodoro, Alagoas
- 1.19 19. Praia do Coqueiro (“Coconut Palm Beach”) – Luís Correia, Piauí
- 1.20 20. Baía dos Porcos (“Bay of Pigs”) – Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco
- 2 Tip of tours, attractions and activities to enjoy in northeastern Brazil
What are the 20 best & most beautiful beaches in Northeast Brazil?
- Praia dos Carneiros – Tamandaré, Pernambuco
- Cabo Branco – João Pessoa, Paraíba
- Jericoacoara – Jijoca de Jericoacoara Ceará
- Pontal de Maracaípe – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
- Praia de Canoa Quebrada – Aracati, Ceará
- Praia do Gunga – Roteiro, Alagoas
- Praia de Macapá – Luís Correia, Piauí
- Praia do Forte – Mata de São João, Bahia
- Praia do Saco – Estância, Sergipe
- Praia de Muro Alto – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
- Praia do Panaquatira, São José de Ribamar, Maranhão
- Praia de Genipabu – Extremuz, Rio Grande do Norte
- Porto de Galinhas – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
- Praia de Igarapé Grande – Turiaçu, Maranhão
- Praia de Maragogi – Maragogi Alagoas
- Tambaba – Conde, Paraíba
- Praia das Dunas – Estância, Sergipe
- Praia do Francês – Marechal Deodoro, Alagoas
- Praia do Coqueiro – Luís Correia, Piauí
- Baía dos Porcos – Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco
And before we get into more detail about each of these beaches, here’s a map of where all the beaches are (click to zoom in).
1. Praia dos Carneiros (“Ram Beach”) – Tamandaré, Pernambuco
Praia dos Carneiros, aside from being one of the most lovely beaches of the region, may also be one of the most popular. It’s located in the municipality of Tamandaré, approximately 100 kilometers from the Pernambuco capital of Recife.
Without a doubt, the major landmark of Praia dos Carneiros is the Chapel of São Benedito, built along the seashore at the end of the 18th century.
But of course, this isn’t the only attraction. This spot is also ideal for anyone who likes small beaches complete with aquamarine and emerald water, white sand, and coconut palms.
2. Cabo Branco (“White Cape”) – João Pessoa, Paraíba
Cabo Branco is a great option for anyone in search of a beach near the large northeastern capitals. Located just a few kilometers from João Pessoa, the region of Cabo Branco is full of great hotels and a coastline ready to welcome visitors and locals alike. Here, you’ll also find plenty of good bars and restaurants just meters from the sea. Overall, it’s a pleasant area and the sea, though cloudy, is very calm.
In sum, the location, infrastructure, and magnificent landscape make Cabo Branco one of the best beaches of the state of Paraíba.
3. Jericoacoara – Jijoca de Jericoacoara, Ceará
The beach of Jericoacoara (pronounced “jeri-qwa-qwa-ra”) has increased in popularity a lot over the past years, attracting not only Brazilians, but also visitors from around the world.
This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, given that it was chosen as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! With the increase in tourism, one of the solutions was the construction of a regional airport. However, if you’re looking to save money, you can still fly into Fortaleza and then take the bus here.
White sand dunes and turquoise sea make up the Jeri landscape. During your trip, you can make the most of your time and relax in a hammock hanging over the sea, or perhaps take a dune buggy out for a swing.
Another major attraction of the region is windsurfing and kitesurfing, perfect for anyone in search of some adventure.
4. Pontal de Maracaípe – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
Pontal de Maracaípe may be very close to the famous Porto de Galinhas, yet it is still an area that is well-preserved, calm, and only has minimal facilities. Truthfully, you can expect just the basics if you spend the day there.
Yet, you can also expect waves perfect for surfing alongside stretches of sea calm enough for children. And for any marine animal lovers, you can make a stop at the headquarters of Projecto Hippocampus, a conservation center for seahorses, which is located nearby.
You can easily combine a visit to Porto de Galinhas with a trip to Pontal de Maracaípe, or you can spend all your time in this incredible place.
5. Praia de Canoa Quebrada (“Broken Canoe Beach”) – Aracati, Ceará
The 5th on our list of the 20 best beaches in Northeast Brazil is Praia de Canoa Quebrada. Despite its funny name, it is without a doubt one of the most beautiful beaches in the state of Ceará.
Likely, you’ve already seen a photo of Canoe Quebrada with its red-toned cliffs, and this scenery alone makes it worth the trip. But when combined with the bright blue sea, it’s all the more beautiful.
If you want to relax, practice water sports, or find some good nightlife, Canoa Quebrada is the place for you!
6. Praia do Gunga (“Swing Beach”) – Roteiro, Alagoas
Praia do Gunga is perfect for anyone looking for something a little different. Located some 40 kilometers from Maceió, this beach stands out as it is the spot where the Retiro Lagoon meets with the sea. Like Canoa Quebrada, its also surrounded by cliffs, making a buggy ride a fun option!
This destination has simple facilities, but there should be enough to cover all your basic needs.
7. Praia de Macapá – Luís Correia, Piauí
Although it may not have much to offer in the way of infrastructure, Macapá Beach is still worth a visit. Thanks to its strong winds, this is one of the best places to learn to surf or practice any other water sport.
Seahorses are common around here, which is why the region is home to several conservation-focused NGOs. In other words, it’s a great place to see nature up-close!
8. Praia do Forte (“Fort Beach”) – Mata de São João, Bahia
Bahia’s Praia do Forte is one of the most “complete” beach destinations you can visit in the northeast. Since it’s a well-visited spot, the infrastructure and facilities available are impeccable, and you’ll find many options for accommodation and restaurants. You’ll also find a museum for Project Tamar, a sea turtle conversation center, right on the beach.
And we haven’t even gotten into the natural beauties of the area! A lovely mixture of blue sea surrounded by the Atlantic Forest where you can also enjoy a trail walk through the Sapiranga Reserve.
In other words, incredible landscapes, activities, and facilities are waiting for you on Praia do Forte.
9. Praia do Saco – Estância, Sergipe
Another option for anyone who wants to escape the crowds is Praia do Saco, one of the most beautiful beaches in the state of Sergipe! Located in Estância municipality, Praia do Saco borders the state of Bahia. Although it may not be a very well-known spot, it has plenty of attractions, like buggy rides and Saco Point.
And with its calm, clear sea, white sand, and lines of coconut trees, it really is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to embrace the natural marvels of Sergipe.
10. Praia de Muro Alto (“High Wall Beach”) – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
Muro Alto is, without a doubt, one of the best beaches in the entire northeast. Located near Porto de Galinhas in Ipojuca, the name of this beach is fitting – here, you’ll find a sea wall, or a reef, approximately 3 kilometers long. This forms a huge natural pool, making the views of this beach unlike anything you’ve ever seen!
The water of the sea is warm and calm, perfect for children as well as adults. You can also head out on stable kayaks or jangadas (traditional Brazilian rafts) for more fun!
11. Praia do Panaquatira – São José de Ribamar, Maranhão
Praia do Panaquatire was great for anyone looking for calm waters. Even during high tide, the sea is shallow and still.
But the best of all is the location, which is close to the Maranhão capital of São Luis, making it easy to get to and not far from plenty of other beautiful beaches you can also visit.
12. Praia de Genipabu – Extremuz, Rio Grande do Norte
Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte, is well-known for its dunes…which means we can’t forget to include the beach right in the midst of this little paradise!
Praia de Genipabu is an easy 25-minute trip from this capital city. So even if you’re not staying on the beach, it’s still worth visiting if you are in Natal.
Here, you’ll find a calm, bright blue sea, sand dunes, and good facilities like accommodation, outdoor vendors, and restaurants. Beyond this, you can make the most of the area’s coolest attractions like esquibunda (sand sledding) and the aerobunda (a zip line that takes you over the water).
13. Porto de Galinhas (“Hen Port”) – Ipojuca, Pernambuco
Porto de Galinhas, as we’ve mentioned above, is well-loved by Brazilians and international tourists alike. Located in the Ipojuca municipality, it’s close to a number of other beaches you’ll find on this list.
Porto de Galinhas has many attractions, including turquoise sea with colorful fish, great diving, excellent facilities, and a vibrant nightlife. Beyond the beach, you can also enjoy the city center, which is has a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and local artisans.
14. Praia de Igarapé Grande (“Big Stream Beach”) – Turiaçu, Maranhão
If you’re looking for a stunning and natural paradise, then Praia de Igarapé Grande is for you. In fact, according to the locals of Maranhão, this is the most beautiful beach in the state!
Located on the Atol dos Atins archipelago, this beach receives few tourists and has few facilities. During low tide, you’ll find a calm sea. However, during high tide, the waves regularly reach 2 meters or taller.
In other words, be sure to check out a tide chart before you plan your visit.
15. Praia de Maragogi – Maragogi, Alagoas
Praia de Maragogi isn’t just one of the best beaches in Northeast Brazil, but in the entire world! Known primarily for its clear water and natural pools, this beach also has excellent facilities and many activities for you to take part in.
Beyond a classic visit to the pools, you can also go diving or head out on a party boat trip. A buggy ride is also a great option if you want to check out the neighboring beaches.
16. Tambaba – Conde, Paraíba
Given that it’s considered to be the first nude beach in Brazil, Tambaba had to make this list.
On Tambaba, you’ll find two distinct areas for tourists. In the first area, where you’ll find a small natural pool, only dressed visitors are allowed. But in the second area, only accessible via a security gate, you’ll find the nude visitors. And truthfully, this is the section with the most beautiful parts of Tambaba beach, complete with cliffs just 300 meters from the water.
17. Praia das Dunas (“Dune Beach”) – Estância, Sergipe
Praia das Dunas isn’t a big tourist spot. It’s calm and the majority of visitors are locals. Which means that it’s a great option for anyone who likes quiet and typical Northeast coastline scenery.
Beyond sand dunes, you’ll also find a lightly rippling sea perfect for practicing some water sports.
18. Praia do Francês (“The Frenchman’s Beach”) – Marechal Deodoro, Alagoas
Located some 40 minutes from the state capital of Maceió, Praia do Francês is another lovely highlight of the Alagoan coast.
As with Praia do Muro Alto, this beach is also surrounded by reefs that form natural pools. And it’s right at this point, called “canto esquerdo” (“left corner”), where you’ll find most of the tourists, as well as the boats and outdoor vendors. But in the “canto direito” (“right corner”), outside of the natural pools, you’ll find rougher waters with big waves perfect for surfing.
19. Praia do Coqueiro (“Coconut Palm Beach”) – Luís Correia, Piauí
Praia do Coqueiro is located just over 10 kilometers for the Piauí state capital of Luís Correia. This beach has great kitesurfing year-round.
However, during holidays (especially those at the end of the year), the beach can get packed. Luckily, to accommodate the number of tourists, you’ll find plenty of lodging and restaurant options right next to the sea.
20. Baía dos Porcos (“Bay of Pigs”) – Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco
And to finish off our list here with the best beaches in Northeast Brazil, we have the famous Fernando de Noronha island (located some 350 kilometers east of the Brazilian coast). Baía dos Porcos has already been selected as the most beautiful beach in all of Brazil many times. And that title is well-deserved!
This small, 100-meter strip of sand is surrounded by cliffs, emerald-green rainforest, and turquoise water. However, do keep your eye on the tide charts to choose the right day for your visit. During low tide, natural pools, fish, and even turtles will appear. But when it’s high tide, this small beach is completely covered with water and inaccessible.
And if you are visiting the rest of Brazil, why not check out this great article with 37 Tourist Attractions in Brazil You Need to Visit.
Tip of tours, attractions and activities to enjoy in northeastern Brazil
Here is a tip that can help a lot when planning your trip. The Civitatis and Viator sites are great tools for finding attractions and activities in the most diverse destinations! On these sites you can find classic attractions of the city that you will visit, private tours and differentiated tours. There are options for all styles of travelers, check below some of the attractions offered.
In conclusion…
Brazilians and tourists from around the world come to enjoy and spend time on our breathtaking coast. But beyond the beaches, the Northeast as a whole should be on any traveler’s itinerary! Beyond natural beauties, the entire area is rich in culture…from traditional festivals, typical music, and a full-flavored cuisine that gives each state of the Northeast its own individual flair.
So, what do you think of this list of the 20 best beaches of the Brazilian Northeast? Have you ever been to any? Or which one would you choose for your next trip? Let me know your thoughts (and any questions) you might have in the comments area below!