The best beaches on Brazil’s north-east coast
Brazil: so many beaches, so little time!!
Arguably, the state of Alagoas, on Brazil’s north east coast, has some of the best beaches in the whole country.
That postcard beach with immaculate white sand, turquoise waters and green palm trees swaying in the breeze, Alagoas has in abundance.
How to get there
To reach Alagoas by plane, there are only two options: fly into Recife and drive down the coast or fly to Maceio’ and drive up the coast.
There are taxis and transfer shuttles as well if you don’t want to self-drive, however the roads are in good condition and it is just a straightforward drive.
Plus it gives you the freedom to roam about, exploring empty beaches on your own, rather than relying on taxis which are few and far between.
We explored a few places along the Alagoas’ coast and here are our suggestions.
Maragogi:
Situated along the stunning coastline of Alagoas, Brazil, Maragogi is a tropical paradise that is often overlooked when compared to its more famous counterparts like Rio de Janeiro or Salvador. Although it is getting more and more touristy.
The crown jewel of Maragogi is undoubtedly its pristine beaches. With soft white sand and turquoise waters that shimmer under the sun, beaches like Praia de Maragogi and Praia Antunes are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and simply soaking in the stunning scenery.
Praia Antunes wins the competition hands down! It has the postcard factor!
The natural pools, or “piscinas naturais,” formed by reefs just offshore, are a must-visit.
These shallow lagoons, where you can walk, swim and snorkel, are teeming with marine life.
There are several tours offered on the beach, just compare the prices and deals.
You can also take a boat tour to explore the coastline and discover hidden beaches that can only be accessed by water. For those who love a bit of adrenaline, consider trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking.
Beyond its natural allure, Maragogi is also a place rich in culture and tradition. Stroll through the town’s charming streets and immerse yourself in the local culture. Don’t miss the vibrant handicraft markets where you can find unique souvenirs made by local artisans.
There are plenty of beachfront restaurants, where you can taste the flavours of traditional Brazilian food or more international fare.
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Maragogi is during the dry season, which runs from September to March. During these months, the weather is warm, and the waters are calm, making it perfect for beach activities and exploration.
We went in March and it only rained, deluged, one afternoon.
However, even in the off-peak season, Maragogi retains its charm and beauty, offering a more tranquil experience for visitors.
We stayed at this little hotel, with breakfast served pic-nic style on the beach. Our room had a huge terrace with hammocks overlooking the shoreline. At a very good price!
https://www.booking.com/hotel/br/enero-hostel.en-gb.html?aid=304142
Japaratinga
Only 10 mins drive away from Maragogi, but a world apart, is the little village and beach of Japaratinga.
Very often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours, Maragogi and Porto de Galinhas, this serene destination offers immaculate beaches and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Japaratinga is a secluded haven of tranquillity, made to relax in peace on the shore or in the hammock and admire one of the most stunning sunsets I have ever seen.
Praia de Japaratinga is the main beach, where gentle waves lap at the shore, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation. Spend your days sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a refreshing coconut water as you take in the stunning views.
I loved to walk the length of the beach, the golden sand shimmering, local children playing football and I tried to spot a future Pele’.
With a drink in hand, I looked forward to the sunset, fiery and all conquering and it was a stunning spectacle every night.
The nearby Maragogi Marine Reserve offers stunning opportunities for snorkelling and diving. There are also natural pools formed during low tide and the marine life comes alive with with colourful corals and exotic fish. You can also take a boat tour to the nearby reefs, where you’ll have the chance to see sea turtles and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Nature trails in the area provide fantastic opportunities for hiking and birdwatching, allowing you to immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of the Atlantic rainforest.
We stayed at this hotel, on the beach with beautiful views
https://www.booking.com/hotel/br/humaita-pousada.en-gb.html?aid=304142
Sao Miguel dos Milagres
One hour away from Japaratinga, along the stunning Alagoas coast lies a paradise it’s still undiscovered by the mainstream traveller: São Miguel dos Milagres.
This charming little town, with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibe, offers a unique experience for those looking to experience a real Brazilian town, relax and soak up the sun.
The town is busy during the day, with Brazilian day trippers, we did not spot any foreign tourist, but goes ghostly quiet at night which we did not mind for a few nights.
However, if you are looking for a much livelier town, or parties, Maragogi is probably better.
São Miguel dos Milagres is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, each one more beautiful than the last.
One of the must-visit spots is Praia do Patacho, famous for its golden sands and tranquil waters and palm trees. I think it is the quintessential postcard beach.
Don’t miss Praia do Toque, where you can witness stunning natural pools formed by the reef during low tide. These pools are perfect for snorkelling, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life that thrives just below the surface.
Beyond the beaches, São Miguel dos Milagres is rich in culture and tradition. Take the time to wander through the town’s quaint streets, where you’ll find charming local shops and artisan markets. Don’t forget to try the traditional tapioca, a delightful Brazilian dish made from cassava flour and often filled with sweet or savoury ingredients.
Check out our Brazil itinerary: our next stop, Paraty, the most charming Brazilian town.
For more Brazil blog posts: https://blog.worldswithout.net/brazil/
