Water sports, wildlife and magnificent tropical landscapes combine to create an idyllic coastal escape at Maracaípe Beach. This long stretch of powdery white sand backed by coconut groves is one of Ipojuca’s most beautiful beaches. Go for a stroll along the Maracaípe Beach seashore and dip your feet in the warm water. Try different water sports and enjoy the scenery from one of the beach bars. Wake up early and watch the sun come up over the Atlantic Ocean.
When the tide is high the beach is a magnet for water sports enthusiasts. The consistent, rolling waves are especially suited for body boarding, kitesurfing, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Observe as experienced surfers show off their talents or rent equipment and try your hand at one of the water-based activities. Be careful if swimming at high tide because strong undercurrents are common.
Go to Pontal de Maracaípe, located at the southern end of the beach, at low tide to discover a series of natural tidal pools. Bathe in the calm water while admiring the coral reefs, mangroves and sandbanks. Spot a rainbow’s worth of multicolored fish. Bring a snorkel to see the fish more clearly.
The pools sit at the mouth of the Maracaípe River, which runs inland past more coconut groves and mangroves. The river is a breeding ground for seahorses and it’s often possible to see these curious marine animals. Boat tours offer a relaxed way to spot wildlife on the river.
When hunger strikes, visit one of the bars that spread along the beach. Dine on plates of fresh crab and Brazilian snacks such as coixinha, which is balls of battered and deep-fried chicken. Quench your thirst with a cold beer or freshly-squeezed fruit juice.
Find a larger selection of bars and restaurants in Vila de Todos os Santos, a village set at the beach’s northern tip. There’s also a collection of hotels and posadas here. Many of the accommodations have surf gear for rent.
Maracaípe Beach is about a 15-minute drive from Porto de Galinhas, Ipojuca’s largest beach resort. Parking is available on the road that leads down to the beach.
