Redinha Beach is a sandy haven in a lively area with an intriguing military history. It lies on the eastern coast of a former fishing village in the northern outskirts of Natal. Learn how the beach served as a camp for Allied troops during World War II.
Take your kids for a swim in the calm waters that are protected by reefs. See the point where the fresh water of the river meets the salty ocean. Swimming in this part is not recommended.
Gaze up at the Newton Navarro Bridge, which is about 330 feet (100 meters) high and spans the vast mouth of the Potengi River. Walk or cycle along the assigned lanes to the center of the bridge for excellent views of Redinha Beach and the ocean.
Purchase fried fish and cold beer from one of the huts and stalls at the back of the beach and in the quaint alleys of the town. One of the local food specialties is ginga fish in a tapioca wrap.
Visit the stone church Our Lady of Navigators on the southern part of the beach. Dine at one of the many restaurants here and walk out on the long cobbled pier. Snap photos of the beach with the river and the bridge serving as a picturesque backdrop.
Note that the site’s name derives from the Portuguese words for “small net,” which ties in with the village’s fishing industry past. Settlers from Portugal named the commune after a city in their home country. Visit the Natal Aquarium a little north of the beach to see the tanks of intriguing aquatic creatures.
Redinha Beach is on the northern flank of the Potengi River’s mouth, as it leads into the ocean. It is directly opposite the Fort of the Three Kings and lies in the shadow of the Newton Navarro Bridge. Drive north from Natal’s city center past the district of Santos Reis and cross the river to reach the Redinha area. Travel to Ponta Negra and several other beaches by boat to avoid road congestion.