Destinations span five states and offer easy access via paved roads
The northeastern coast of Brazil saw a 15% increase in hotel occupancy in January 2024, according to data from the Brazilian Hotel Industry Association. In response to the growing crowds, local tour operators have begun promoting beaches with fewer visitors and essential infrastructure.
A list published by Viagem e Turismo magazine in December 2023 highlights ten beaches across five states. All are accessible via paved highways and offer accommodations in guesthouses or vacation rentals.
- Maracajaú, in Rio Grande do Norte, is located 50 km from Natal. The area features coral reefs seven kilometers off the coast, where boat tours and snorkeling excursions are available.
- Barra de Camaratuba, in Paraíba, lies in the municipality of Mataraca, 110 km from João Pessoa. The region includes dunes, lagoons, and mangroves, with options for kitesurfing.
- Tabatinga, also in Paraíba, is situated in the municipality of Conde, just 25 km from the state capital. The beach boasts wide sandy shores, cliffs, and coconut groves, along with local artisan fairs.
- Praia dos Carneiros, in Pernambuco, belongs to the municipality of Tamandaré, 100 km from Recife. The site is home to the 17th-century Forte Santo Inácio de Loyola and a charming seaside chapel.
- Porto de Pedras, in Alagoas, features a lighthouse built in 1933 and a natural viewpoint. The beach is part of the Rota Ecológica dos Milagres, known for its calm, warm waters.
- Praia do Patacho, also in Alagoas, is near Porto de Pedras. The area forms natural pools at low tide and sees fewer visitors than Maragogi, located 50 km away.
- Praia do Saco, in Sergipe, lies on the border with Bahia. The area includes Ilha da Sogra, a sandbank accessible by boat, and offers water sports.
- Corumbau, in Bahia, is part of the Costa das Baleias, a whale-watching route. The beach is in the municipality of Prado and features bars and restaurants at Ponta de Corumbau.
- Itacaré, in southern Bahia, offers trails through the Atlantic Forest leading to beaches like Prainha, popular with surfers. The town has guesthouses and camping sites.
- Taipu de Fora, on the Maraú Peninsula in Bahia, forms natural pools at low tide. The beach features light sandy shores and coconut groves.
Most of these destinations lack paved parking lots or public restrooms. Visitors are advised to check tide charts before exploring areas with reefs or sandbanks.