Barra de Camaratuba: Explore Untouched Beaches

Barra de Camaratuba, located in the municipality of Mataraca, in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, is a charming and relatively unexplored tourist destination, ideal for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature.

Barra de Camaratuba is the wildest version of Paraíba.

Located in the municipality of Mataraca, 110 kilometres from João Pessoa and very close to the border with Rio Grande do Norte, this fishing village is considered the last district on the north coast of the state and offers attractions such as beaches with a strip of sand that marks the boundary between the sea and the river, walks along lagoons, trails in a mangrove swamp and visits to indigenous communities.

Video – Tourist information on Barra de Camaratuba

Barra de Camaratuba na Paraíba - Reportagem
play-rounded-fill

Barra de Camaratuba’s Tourist Highlights

1. Natural Beauty.

  • Beaches: The beaches of Barra de Camaratuba are known for their clear, calm waters and unspoilt, often deserted landscapes, ideal for those who want to relax away from the crowds.
  • Meeting of river and sea: One of the most impressive sights is the meeting of the Camaratuba River and the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique and picturesque landscape.
  • Cliffs and Dunes: The region also has colourful cliffs and dunes that offer incredible panoramic views.

2. Ecotourism and Adventure.

Caranguejo Uçá
Uçá crab
  • Trails: There are several trails in the region, both for walking and cycling, through stunning landscapes and areas of Atlantic Forest.
  • Trilha do Caranguejo: The trail passes through mangrove areas, where you can observe the flora and fauna typical of this ecosystem. The lush vegetation and water channels create a unique setting. In addition to the crabs, which are the main attraction, visitors can see various species of birds, small mammals and other animals that inhabit the region. The trail is moderate in length and is usually completed in about 2 to 3 hours. It is an easy to moderate walk.
  • Turtle Watching: The beach is a nesting site for sea turtles and there are conservation projects that offer guided tours to observe these animals.
  • Boat Trips: Boat trips along the Camaratuba River are an excellent way to explore the local flora and fauna.

3. Culture and Local Community.

  • Potiguara Indigenous Culture: The region is close to indigenous villages of the Potiguara tribe, which offer a rich cultural experience. You can visit the villages and learn about local customs and traditions.
  • Local Handicrafts: Local handicrafts are diverse and include pieces made from natural materials such as straw and ceramics, perfect for souvenirs.

4. Gastronomy

Mapa da Barra de Camaratuba na Paraíba
Map of Barra de Camaratuba in Paraíba
  • Local Cuisine: Barra de Camaratuba’s cuisine is rich in fresh seafood, with traditional dishes that will delight visitors. Local restaurants offer authentic dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients.

5. Accommodation

  • Pousadas and Hotels: Accommodation ranges from cosy pousadas to more sophisticated hotels, often with spectacular views of the sea or river.
Encontro do rio com o mar em Barra de Camaratuba, em Mataraca na PB
The river meets the sea at Barra de Camaratuba, in Mataraca, PB

6. Practical Tips

  • Best time to visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season, from September to March, when the weather is more pleasant and there is less rain.
  • How to get there: The most common route is via João Pessoa, the state capital, and from there by car or bus to Mataraca and Barra de Camaratuba.

Barra de Camaratuba is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the midst of lush nature and a rich cultural experience.

Barra de Camaratuba na Paraíba
Barra de Camaratuba

Parish of Camaratuba

Visitors to the municipality should not miss the Bom Jesus Mother Church, a walk along the Camaratuba River, a swim in the Lagoa Encantada (a mirror of crystal-clear water surrounded by mangaba trees) and a visit to the Uçá Crab Ecological Park (a project of the municipality with the Federal University of Paraíba, the municipal, state and federal governments and private initiatives).

Don’t miss Barra de Camaratuba, one of the most beautiful beaches on the northern coast of Paraíba. Located about 11 kilometres from the city, it offers cosy restaurants, idyllic scenery and a wonderful swim at the mouth of the Camaratuba River.

Mataraca history

The history of Mataraca has always been linked to Mamanguape. It all began with the establishment of the Mataraca estate.

Rich in sugar cane and cotton production, the region was part of Mamanguape’s heyday, when it was the commercial centre of Paraíba.

The first chapel was built with money raised by a missionary nun who settled in the place where the parish church now stands.

Popular events include the feast of Bom Jesus, which is celebrated with nine nights of festivities from 23 to 31 December, bringing thousands of believers into the streets, and the traditional feast of São Sebastião, held in January.

Barra de Camaratuba na Paraíba
Barra de Camaratuba

Tourist guide to Barra de Camaratuba in Paraíba

This post is also on: Português English Deutsch Español Français

Hide picture