Accommodation options in João Pessoa: neighbourhoods, beaches, and pros and cons
João Pessoa, Paraíba offers accommodation to suit all tastes — from hotels and guesthouses by the sea to apartments in residential neighbourhoods.
In this guide, you will find an overview of the city’s main neighbourhoods and beaches, with the pros and cons of each location to help you choose: proximity to attractions, safety, dining options, transport and beach style (quieter or livelier).
Use this information to find accommodation that suits your travel profile — relaxation, cultural tourism, nightlife or surfing — and make the most of your stay in the capital of Paraíba.
Opções de hospedagem em João Pessoa PB
Praia de Tambaú em João Pessoa17:32
Praia de Cabo Branco em João Pessoa PB01:32:32
Praia de Manaíra em João Pessoa PB19:56
Voo de Drone da Praia do Bessa Sentido Manaíra02:29:42
Bairro do Altiplano - O bairro dos arranha-Céus04:29:17
Praia do Jacaré em Cabedelo PB06:47
Praia de Intermares em Cabedelo PB
1. Tambaú neighbourhood
Tambaú is a neighbourhood (neighbourhood/coast) of João Pessoa, located on the coast and known for Tambaú Beach, its promenade, street market and wide range of hotels and services.
Beach: Tambaú Beach
Pros:
- Central urban beach; promenade and street market
- Many restaurants, bars and services
- Good range of hotels and transport
Cons:
- Crowded and noisy in high season
- Prices can be higher
- Limited parking
2. Cabo Branco neighbourhood
The Cabo Branco neighbourhood is known for Cabo Branco Beach, its proximity to Ponta do Seixas (the easternmost point of the Americas), good tourist infrastructure (hotels, guesthouses, restaurants) and easy access to the promenade and nearby attractions.
Beach: Cabo Branco Beach (near Ponta do Seixas)
Pros:
- Good beaches for swimming
- Beachfront hotel/inn options
- A little quieter than Tambaú; good infrastructure
Cons:
- Can be expensive in front of the beach
- Less nightlife than Tambaú
- Crowded in high season
3. Manaíra neighbourhood
Manaíra is a neighbourhood in João Pessoa, on the coast, known for its shops (malls, markets), good accommodation and services, access to Manaíra Beach and easy mobility around the city.
Beach: Manaíra Beach
Pros:
- Great shopping (malls, markets, restaurants)
- Varied accommodation
- Good mobility
Cons:
- Less impressive beach than Tambaú/Cabo Branco
- Traffic during peak hours
- Less ‘beach vibe’
4. Bessa neighbourhood
Bessa is a neighbourhood in João Pessoa, located on the north coast. It is known for Bessa Beach, a more residential area, holiday apartment options, a calmer and more family-friendly atmosphere, and local shops (grocery stores, restaurants). It is a little further away from the city centre and the more touristy areas such as Tambaú/Cabo Branco.
Beach: Bessa Beach
Pros:
- Quieter and less crowded beaches
- Good for families
- Good apartment options
Cons:
- Fewer shops and nightlife
- Further away from central attractions
- Less frequent public transport
5. Altiplano neighbourhood
Altiplano (or Altiplano Cabo Branco) is an upmarket neighbourhood in João Pessoa, with high-end condominiums, luxury apartments, good services, views of the coast and easy access to other neighbourhoods such as Cabo Branco and Tambaú.
Beach: (near) Cabo Branco Beach / Altiplano coastline — it is not a neighbourhood with an extensive urban beach like Tambaú.
Pros:
- Upscale and safe area
- Buildings with infrastructure (gym, security)
- Good views in some spots
Cons:
- Far from popular beaches on foot
- Fewer immediate tourist options
- Accommodation tends to be more expensive
6. Jacaré neighbourhood
Jacaré is a neighbourhood in João Pessoa, famous for its sunsets on the banks of the Paraíba River and for the spectacle of Ravel’s Bolero played by local musicians on the waterfront.
Beach: Paraíba River waterfront — Jacaré Beach (not a swimming beach; sunset spot)
Pros:
- Best place to watch the sunset to the sound of Bolero
- Cultural atmosphere
- Riverside bars
Cons:
- Not suitable for swimming
- Limited accommodation infrastructure
- More occasional outings
7. Intermares neighbourhood
Intermares is a neighbourhood in Cabedelo (Greater João Pessoa), located on the waterfront with popular beaches for surfing and fishing, residential and tourist profile.
Beach: Intermares Beach
Pros:
- More natural beaches with less traffic
- Generally lower prices
Cons:
- Further from the centre
- Less tourist infrastructure and services
- Best to visit by car
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