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If there’s one place in Brazil that feels like pure paradise, it’s the Northeast. Think endless coconut trees, warm turquoise water, and beaches that look like they came straight out of a postcard.
For us Brazilians, the Northeast is that spot we dream about when we want sun, good food, and the kind of laid-back vibe that makes you forget what day of the week it is.
And trust me, it’s not just about lying on the sand. Every beach here has its own personality. Some are all about parties and forró, others are perfect if you want to hear the sound of the waves and disconnect.
In this guide, I picked 15 of the best beaches in Northeast Brazil, a mix of famous names you’ve probably heard of and hidden gems that might surprise you. Whether you’re into snorkeling in crystal-clear rivers, dancing barefoot by the sea, or chasing that perfect sunset, you’ll find your spot here.
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Why Visit the Best Beaches in Northeast Brazil
The Northeast is not just about stunning landscapes; it is about experiences that stick with you. Imagine walking along endless stretches of sand where the only sound is the ocean, or stumbling upon a beach bar where locals are playing live forró and inviting everyone to dance.
Here you’ll find some of the most famous beaches in the country, like Jericoacoara and Porto de Galinhas, but also small towns where time moves slower and the highlight of the day is watching the sunset with a cold beer in hand.
What makes this region so special is the mix of nature and culture. One day you can be swimming in natural pools with colorful fish, the next you might be learning to dance forró at a beach party. It’s paradise, with a Brazilian twist that makes everything even better.
Best Time to Visit Northeast Brazil
The good news is that the Northeast is warm all year long, so there is really no bad time to go. Still, knowing when to plan your trip can make a big difference in your experience.
- December to March is high season. It is summer in Brazil, so expect hotter days, lively parties and more crowded beaches. Prices for hotels and tours usually go up.
- April to June and August to November are my favorite months. These shoulder seasons bring fewer tourists, better deals, and still plenty of sunshine.
- July is another busy month because of Brazilian school holidays, so beaches can get crowded again.
- Rainy season varies a bit by state, but in general happens between April and July. Even then, showers are usually quick, and the sun comes back fast, so it rarely ruins an entire trip.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: if swimming in clear waters is a must for you, plan your trip between September and January, when visibility in rivers and natural pools is at its best.
How to Get to Northeast Brazil
The Northeast covers a huge area, so where you land will depend on which beaches you want to visit first. Luckily, there are several airports that connect the region with the rest of Brazil and even with some international destinations.
Salvador (Bahia), Recife (Pernambuco), and Fortaleza (Ceará) are the main international gateways. You can find direct flights from Europe and from the US.
From other parts of Brazil, especially São Paulo and Rio, there are frequent flights to almost every capital in the Northeast. For smaller towns and more remote beaches, you will likely fly into one of these hubs and then continue by bus, transfer, or rental car.
Tip from your Brazilian friend: distances can be long, so if you want to explore more than one state, consider combining a flight with some overland travel. Renting a car can be a great option in areas like Bahia or Alagoas, where many beautiful beaches are spread out along the coast.
Top 15 Beaches in Northeast Brazil
Praia de Jericoacoara (Ceará)
Jericoacoara, or simply “Jeri”, is one of those places that feels almost unreal. Picture sandy streets with no cars, rustic beach bars, and sunsets so famous that everyone climbs the dunes just to watch the sky turn into a painting.
What makes Jeri special is the mix of chilled vibes with just the right amount of nightlife. During the day, you can relax at the lagoons, try kitesurfing, or ride a buggy across the dunes. At night, the village comes alive with live forró, caipirinhas, and small restaurants serving fresh seafood.
Don’t miss: Lagoa do Paraíso, Pedra Furada and the sunset from Duna do Pôr do Sol.
Praia de Canoa Quebrada (Ceará)
With cliffs painted in shades of red and orange, Canoa Quebrada is a beach that instantly stands out and sets the mood for days filled with sun and music.
The crescent moon and star carved into the cliffs have become the symbol of this bohemian little town.
Here, life is simple: mornings are for lounging on the beach or trying a buggy ride along the coastline, and nights are for enjoying reggae bars and live music.
Don’t miss: buggy rides on the dunes, enjoying the view from the cliffs at sunset, and exploring the colorful nightlife. If you go for the buggy rides, choose the option called “com emoção” (with excitement). It is a local expression for the drivers who love to speed up and make the ride extra fun and adventurous.
Praia de Pipa (Rio Grande do Norte)
Praia de Pipa is one of those places that manages to be both lively and laid-back at the same time. Once a small fishing village, Pipa grew into one of the most famous beach towns in Brazil while still keeping its charm.
What makes Pipa so special is the variety. You can spend the day swimming with dolphins at Baía dos Golfinhos, hiking along cliffs with breathtaking views, or just relaxing under the sun at Praia do Amor.
At night, the streets of Pipa fill with music, good food, and a mix of locals and travelers from all over the world.
And if you are into surfing, Pipa is one of the top spots in Brazil. From the consistent waves at Praia do Amor to the laid-back vibe of Madeiro Beach, there are options for every level. Imagine catching a wave while dolphins swim right next to you. It is one of those unique experiences you will never forget.
Don’t miss: watching dolphins at Baía dos Golfinhos, sunset at Chapadão cliffs, surfing at Praia do Amor, and nightlife on Avenida Baía dos Golfinhos.
Praia de Tambaba (Paraíba)
Praia de Tambaba is one of the most unique beaches in Brazil. Famous for being the country’s first official naturist beach, it attracts visitors looking for freedom, connection with nature, and stunning scenery. Even if you are not into naturism, the landscape itself is worth the visit.
The beach is divided into two areas. The first part is open to everyone, where you can enjoy calm waters, natural pools, and dramatic cliffs covered in green. The second part is the naturist section, which is well organized and has clear rules to ensure respect and privacy for all visitors.
Don’t miss: the natural pools at low tide, the contrast between the red cliffs and turquoise waters, and, if you feel comfortable, experiencing the naturist section for a true Tambaba vibe.
Praia dos Carneiros (Pernambuco)
Praia dos Carneiros looks exactly like the kind of beach you imagine when someone says “tropical paradise”.
Calm turquoise waters, coconut trees leaning over the sand, and a little white chapel right by the shore. It is the perfect place if you are looking for a relaxing day.
The sea is shallow and warm, great for swimming or just floating around. At low tide, natural pools form right in front of the beach, creating a natural aquarium where you can spot colorful fish.
Another advantage is its location. Carneiros is only about 50 minutes from Porto de Galinhas, one of the most famous beach towns in Brazil. Many travelers choose to combine both in the same trip, enjoying Porto’s lively atmosphere and then relaxing in the calmer vibe of Carneiros.
Don’t miss: the iconic Capela de São Benedito (the chapel on the beach), taking a boat trip along the river and sandbanks, and enjoying fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.
Praia do Sancho (Pernambuco)
Praia do Sancho is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, and once you see it in person, you will understand why.
Hidden between high cliffs covered in lush green, this beach feels like a secret paradise waiting to be discovered.
Getting there is already part of the adventure. To reach the sand, you need to go down a steep staircase that passes through the rocks.
Once you arrive, you are rewarded with crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkeling and spotting colorful fish and sea turtles.
Because it is part of Fernando de Noronha, access is controlled to protect the environment. You need to pay an environmental preservation fee to visit the island, but every cent is worth it for the chance to experience this unique ecosystem.
Don’t miss: snorkeling right from the shore, the viewpoint above the cliffs with panoramic views of the bay, and visiting during turtle nesting season if you are lucky enough.
Praia de Maragogi (Alagoas)
Nicknamed the “Brazilian Caribbean”, Maragogi is famous for its natural pools with crystal-clear water that appear during low tide. Locals call them galés, and visiting them is the highlight of any trip here. Snorkeling in these pools feels like swimming inside an aquarium, surrounded by colorful fish and coral.
Maragogi itself is a small town with a relaxed vibe, perfect for travelers who want to mix adventure with calm days by the sea.
Besides the natural pools, the region has long stretches of beach with warm waters, great for swimming or simply enjoying the sunshine.
Don’t miss: taking a boat trip to the galés during low tide, snorkeling to see marine life up close, and trying local dishes made with fresh seafood and tapioca. The pools are only accessible when the tide is low, and that is when you will see the water at its clearest.
Praia do Patacho (Alagoas)
If you are looking for peace and quiet, Praia do Patacho is one of the best hidden gems in Alagoas. With calm, shallow waters and endless coconut trees along the shore, it feels almost untouched. Many travelers compare it to the Maldives, but with that warm Brazilian soul.
There are no big resorts or crowded beach clubs here, which makes the atmosphere even more special. It is the kind of place where you can walk for kilometers without seeing many people, just the sea and the sand.
Don’t miss: walking along the sandbanks at low tide, enjoying the view of traditional fishing boats, and simply relaxing in a hammock with the ocean right in front of you.
Praia do Gunga (Alagoas)
Praia do Gunga is the opposite of the quiet little Patacho. This beach is lively, colorful, and full of energy, making it one of the most popular spots in Alagoas.
Located between the ocean and a large coconut grove, it offers both natural beauty and plenty of activities.
Here you will find beach bars, music, jet ski rentals, and tours that take you to the famous multicolored cliffs just behind the beach.
It is a great option for travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation and entertainment in the same place.
Don’t miss: taking a buggy or quad tour to the cliffs, enjoying fresh seafood at one of the beach bars and sipping a cold drink under the shade of the endless coconut trees.
Morro de São Paulo (Bahia)
Morro de São Paulo is one of those places where you quickly lose track of time. Located on Tinharé Island, it has no cars, sandy streets, and a relaxed island vibe that makes it perfect for switching off from the world.
The island is divided into numbered beaches, each with its own atmosphere. First Beach is lively with bars and activities, Second Beach is the party hub where music goes on all night, Third and Fourth Beaches are quieter and perfect for long walks, and beyond that, you find almost deserted stretches of sand.
Getting to Morro de São Paulo is already an adventure, usually involving a boat trip from Salvador. But once you arrive, the combination of crystal-clear water, coconut trees and a lively atmosphere makes the journey more than worth it.
Don’t miss: the zipline from the lighthouse straight into the ocean, fresh seafood dinners right on the sand, and long walks to the quieter beaches further down the coast. Remember to pack light. Since there are no cars, you will need to carry your luggage through sandy streets.
Praia do Espelho (Bahia)
Praia do Espelho, or “Mirror Beach”, is often listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, and for good reason.
The calm sea reflects the sky like a mirror on sunny days, creating a breathtaking scene that looks almost unreal.
This beach has a peaceful and exclusive atmosphere, with charming pousadas and small restaurants hidden between the cliffs and palm trees.
It is the kind of place where you can spend hours just walking along the sand, swimming in the natural pools that form at low tide, or enjoying a lazy lunch with fresh seafood.
Don’t miss: the walk along the sandbanks during low tide, trying a moqueca (a traditional Bahian dish) at one of the beachside restaurants, and enjoying the natural pools.
Prainha in Itacaré (Bahia)
Prainha is one of those beaches that feels like a reward after a little adventure. To get there, you need to hike through a trail surrounded by Atlantic rainforest, and the moment you arrive, the view of the crescent-shaped beach framed by palm trees makes every step worth it.
The waves here are strong, which makes Prainha a favorite among surfers and travelers looking for a wilder, untouched vibe. There are no big bars or infrastructure, so it is the perfect spot to relax in nature and enjoy the raw beauty of Bahia’s coastline.
Don’t miss: the trail itself, which is part of the experience, surfing or simply watching the waves, and bringing some snacks and water to spend a few hours away from the crowds.
Moreré (Bahia)
Moreré is one of those places that makes you feel like time has slowed down. Located on the island of Boipeba, it is a tiny village surrounded by pristine beaches, calm waters, and coconut trees as far as the eye can see.
The atmosphere here is rustic and simple, with sandy paths and small family-run pousadas that give the place a cozy feel.
At low tide, natural pools appear just off the coast, perfect for snorkeling and spotting colorful fish.
Unlike some of the busier beaches in Bahia, Moreré has managed to keep its quiet, authentic vibe, making it a favorite for travelers who want to disconnect and experience a more local side of Brazil.
Don’t miss: a boat trip to the natural pools, trying fresh lobster at one of the beachside restaurants, and walking along the deserted stretches of sand at sunset. Bring cash with you, as ATMs are not available on the island.
Ponta do Corumbau (Bahia)
Ponta do Corumbau is the kind of place you go when you really want to escape from everything.
Located in southern Bahia, not far from Caraíva and Praia do Espelho, it is known for its long sandbanks that stretch into the sea at low tide, creating one of the most unique landscapes in the region.
The beach is calm, with crystal-clear waters and an almost untouched atmosphere. It is ideal for long walks, swimming in natural pools, and enjoying the beauty of Bahia without the crowds.
The local community is small and welcoming, with just a few pousadas and restaurants that make the experience even more special.
Don’t miss: walking along the sandbank at low tide, taking a boat trip along the coast, and enjoying freshly caught fish prepared in a simple local style. Ponta do Corumbau is not the easiest place to reach, but that is exactly why it feels so exclusive.
Praia Barra Grande (Piauí)
Barra Grande is a small fishing village that has quietly become one of the favorite spots for kitesurfers from all over the world.
Located on the Piauí coast, this beach is still less crowded than its neighbors in Ceará, which makes it perfect if you are looking for a mix of adventure and tranquility.
The winds here are strong and steady, ideal for kitesurfing, but even if you are not into the sport, Barra Grande has plenty to offer.
You can spend the day relaxing in hammocks over the water, trying fresh seafood at local restaurants, or exploring the mangroves on a stand-up paddle tour.
The sunsets are especially magical, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink over the flat horizon.
Don’t miss: trying a kitesurfing class, enjoying grilled fish at a beach shack, and watching the sunset while swinging in a hammock. The vibe in Barra Grande is rustic and relaxed, so do not expect big resorts or nightlife. Come here to slow down and enjoy simple pleasures by the sea.
Practical Tips for Visiting Northeast Brazil
To make the most of your trip to the best beaches in Northeast Brazil, it helps to plan ahead. These tips will save you time and make your experience even smoother:
- Plan your trip around the seasons: the best time to visit Northeast Brazil beaches is from September to March, when the weather is sunny and the water is clearer for snorkeling and swimming.
- Pack light: many of the best beaches in Northeast Brazil have sandy streets or limited car access. A backpack is more practical than a heavy suitcase.
- Bring cash: smaller towns and remote beaches may not have ATMs, and many pousadas or restaurants only accept cash.
- Check the tide times: natural pools at some of the best beaches in Northeast Brazil, like Maragogi, Praia do Patacho, and Praia dos Carneiros, only appear at low tide.
- Combine flights and local transport: the region is vast, so the best way to explore different states is to fly into major hubs like Recife, Salvador, or Fortaleza and then continue by bus, boat, or rental car.
- Protect yourself from the sun: the sun in Northeast Brazil is very strong, even on cloudy days. Sunscreen, hats, and light clothes are essential.
Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Northeast Brazil
The best beaches in Northeast Brazil are more than just beautiful places to relax. They are a mix of stunning landscapes, unique local culture, and unforgettable experiences that make this region one of the top destinations in the country.
From the natural pools of Maragogi to the rustic charm of Moreré and the dramatic cliffs of Canoa Quebrada, each beach has its own personality. Whether you are looking for adventure, nightlife or a quiet escape surrounded by nature, you will find it here.
If you are planning your next trip, make sure to include at least a few of the best beaches in Northeast Brazil in your itinerary. They will give you a real taste of the tropical paradise that makes this region so special.
Helpful Tools for Planning Your Trip
Here are some of my favorite tools that make traveling around Brazil smoother, safer, and more enjoyable:
🗺️ Tours and tickets: I recommend GetYourGuide for day trips, boat tours, and skip-the-line tickets to attractions across Brazil.
💳 Money transfers & cards: Wise is my go-to for sending and spending money abroad. It offers fair rates, low fees and works great in Brazil.
📶 SIM card: Stay connected from the moment you land with Airalo. Their eSIM works in Brazil and can be activated directly on your phone.
🧳 Travel insurance: For flexible and reliable coverage, I usually go with SafetyWing. It is especially useful for longer trips or if you plan to visit multiple destinations.
🛏️ Hostels: If you are looking for budget-friendly stays, Hostelworld always has great options and filters to find hostels close to the main attractions.
